Latest news with #Polène
Elle
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Elle
Raffia Bags Are An It-Girl Favourite – These Are The 13 Best To Buy Now
Raffia bags have long been a summer mainstay, but they've felt particularly covetable this year. It's not just an ELLE UK hunch, either: Net-a-Porter customer searches for this accessory have increased by 240 per cent in the last three months. It seems we all want to get in on the laissez faire breed of elegance that finds inspiration in the wardrobes of Jane Birkin (when she wasn't carrying her namesake Hermès it was always something raffia or straw), Alexa Chung and every street style star with a Loewe on her arm. It's also worth considering that, perhaps down to the boho renaissance, or fashion's current penchant for natural textures – suede is back in a big way, too. Either way, the current fever goes way beyond the standard basket bag you take abroad once a year. In 2025, raffia has been reimagined for work (with sturdy leather-backed totes), for the city (think teeny tiny shoulder bags), for play (souped-up clutches for weddings) and of course for the beach (enormous hobo totes that'll fit everything but the kitchen sink). But what exactly is raffia? Helen Kaminiski, the Australian designer who's been working with this fabric in her accessories since 1983, explains: 'Although both straw and raffia are natural fibres, they are very different in their origin and attributes. Straw is the dry stalk of cereal plants such as rice, rye, corn, oats and barley. Since it is a by-product of grain harvests, it is inexpensive and plentiful. It absorbs moisture, can become quite brittle over time, and is a stiff fibre meaning it cannot easily be manipulated for fit or shape. Raffia, on the contrary, has a natural resin in its leaves which increases its longevity; it also makes each strand flexible and pliant but also wonderfully resilient and slightly waterproof, preventing it from cracking.' So that explains why the raffia has taken off in a separate entity to the beach-staple straw bag. And it also affirms that, although it is a natural fibre that will wear with age, raffia is well worth the investment. So perhaps you can afford to splash out on that investment after all... but if not, we've included affordable bag options from as little as £50. We're kicking things off with DeMellier's Capri bag because it's the kind of piece that'll see you through several seasons. The sustainable raffia (which took years to source, as most fibres are laced with plastic, founder Mireia Llusia-Lindh tells ELLE) is backed by tan leather for structure and a slick city vibe. Also currently spiking in searches on Net-a-Porter is Chloé's raffia bag. It's no secret the French fashion house is hot property at the moment and basically owns the boho aesthetic. Trend or no trend, this accessory is always a wardrobe mainstay. The Polène tote bag is our favourite in this edit. It's made from hand-crocheted raffia that has a unique knotted, honeycomb effect. Paired with the sculptural shape and overstitched tan leather, this tote will translate beyond the beach. M&S' oversized tote has a high-fashion silhouette. In jet-black raffia with a sculptural gold handle, this hobo bag has a cool, late-Sixties feel. We don't need to tell you that shell motifs and raffia are some of summer 2025's biggest accessory trends. So, why not tick two boxes in one with this Sensi Studio clutch bag? Another great beach-to-city option. Made from neutral raffia, this roomy tote is trimmed with black leather and topped with silver studs. Carry it in-hand or over the shoulder by switching between strap lengths. Scalloped edging and clever seams means Radley's tote is tapping into this season's obsession with all things shell. This raffia bag is unlined but comes with a sewn-in drawstring bag and cardholder so you can store essentials. The Loewe Paula's Ibiza collection has been going for eight years now. And, lest we forget, it's the collaboration that's launched many a basket bag. This season's version features different raffia weaves, rainbow stripe trims and leather accents. Khaite has reimagined its signature Olivia bag in soft raffia for SS25. If you don't do throw-it-all-in open beach bags, you'll appreciate the zip fastening on this one. A great evening option, Simkhai's bag is a simple but elevated take on the trend. Made from unlined raffia for a lightweight feel, it's topped with a twisted gold-tone handle that's a talking point all on its own. & Other Stories' tote is made from a woven raffia and piped in black for contrast. Choose from this shade or an on-trend chocolate hue. This Staud bag is the perfect summer wedding guest accessory, but it'll also work at al fresco dinners abroad. Made from cream raffia, it's dotted with irregular pearlescent beads to create a beautiful iridescent effect. Helen Kaminski knows raffia. In fact, the Aussie designer first came to fame back in 1983 when she launched a hat made of the stuff – her first bag came later in 1990. This Lipari style is crafted in a large bucket shape and trimmed with tan leather. Abigail Southan is our Senior Fashion Ecommerce Editor and has five years' experience as a writer and editor in the industry. Abigail has a BA in History from the University of Bristol and an MA in Fashion Journalism from Central Saint Martins. Abigail currently covers all things style and shopping across titles including Harper's Bazaar, ELLE, Esquire and Red. On a daily basis, she helps readers buy better with how-to-wear guides, first-person product reviews and deep dives into the latest trends. Previously, Abigail has worked for The Sunday Times' Style and Fabulous magazine as their first ecommerce writer and was a founding editor of Sun Selects. She has also written for Net-a-Porter, I-D, Man About Town, Wonderland and 1 Granary, and has interviewed the likes of Paris Hilton, Dua Lipa and Christopher Bailey. You can follow Abigail on Instagram at @abigailsouthan.
Nylon
04-08-2025
- Lifestyle
- Nylon
Polène Paris introduces Neyu, a bag that embodies movement with no constraints
Offering a new carry style, Polène Paris' new Neyu is a collection that reflects movement and the sensation of a body without constraints, allowing you to move freely and easily. Image courtesy of Polène Paris. Image courtesy of Polène Paris. Image courtesy of Polène Paris. Designed like draped leather that is structured around a fold, the bag traces a line from the shoulder to the waist, harmoniously embracing the contours of every human form, with a pattern that was developed directly on the body. Crafted in Polène's ateliers in Ubrique, Spain, the Neyu is made from Nappa leather and the sense of continuous fluidity that you see on the bag is made possible by the malleability of the leather. The shape also enhances its qualities which is evident in its natural elegance, distinctive feel, and fine, lustrous grain. Image courtesy of Polène Paris. Image courtesy of Polène Paris. The fulling process lends the bag a rich, tactile dimension too, allowing you to wear it close to the body like a second skin, as the Neyu delicately hugs the body when you use it as a crossbody. On the shoulder, however, the Neyu moves with fluid, dynamic allure which subtly conceals its rounded zipper at the back. Its wide shoulder strap is held in place by a leather knot that is secured with a 'horse' stitch. Polène Paris Neyu is priced at $720 and is available in Beige, Cognac, Chalk, Black and Taupe. You can get yours online at
Buzz Feed
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
28 Budget-Friendly Fashion Accessories
A set of gold-plated cartilage cuffs you can slip on for the look of two extra piercings. If you've been debating a conch but don't want to baby your ear for up to nine months (yes, that's how long it can take to heal!), try this on for size. An adjustable western-inspired belt if you're still not over Cowboycore and would love a way to highlight your *also on-trend* low-waist bottoms. A pair of $15 oval sunnies reviewers say may or may not look like a $500+ Celine pair 👀 and I'm right there with them. A faux-leather bag that can straight up pass for Polène's Cyme. Despite its low price point, reviewers say the quality and detail — from the stitching to the hardware — is there. 👏 A cherry bag charm if you're currently 'Jane Birkinifying' all of your bags — aka accessorizing your accessories — and fell in love with a particular $95 charm that's taken TikTok by storm. A CZ tennis bracelet that — according to reviewers — can pass for real-deal diamonds, especially when incorporated in a sparkly stack. A satin scarf you can wear SO many ways. Use it as a headband or scrunchie, tie it around your purse handle for extra oomph, wear it around your neck, style it as a top, or buy a matching set for you and your pet to wear. A beaded evening bag with *just* room for all of the important stuff (phone, keys, wallet) so you can collect compliments but not other people's stuff when you go out for the night and someone inevitably doesn't want to carry their own bag. Some faux-pearl statement earrings that look like they were bought from a boutique in Tahiti, but really, all you did was click "Buy Now" on Amazon and they showed up at your door in 24 hours. A stacking ring set you can wear together or space out so several fingers can get in on the fun. Friends will thing you sourced them individually but really, the work was done for you. A set of beaded bracelets with a stretchy elastic band so you don't have to spend 10 fruitless minutes trying and failing to secure multiple tiny clasps. A layered initial and paperclip chain necklace for those who love the look of two+ pieces, but don't want to deal with sourcing them individually. I've been there, done that, and gotta say that this way, you don't have to deal with uneven lengths or unexpected tangles. A dazzling cubic zirconia ring that looks *just* like the one you've seen on the hand of many a celeb and influencer — but for $10. Just keep it away from water (and maybe don't wear it to Solidcore classes if you sweat a lot), and you'll get your money's worth. A beaded shoulder bag you'll immediately treat as well as your firstborn child so it stays in the best condition imaginable. It's v similar to options from Staud if you love the look but simply can't afford the brand! A pair of stylish teardrop earrings if you want the luxe look of Bottega Veneta but don't want to drop the equivalent of a month's rent on them — especially with how often you misplace things. A pair of safety pin earrings that look like the real thing, but won't infect your lobes or accidentally poke a new hole behind your ear. A true win-win, if you ask me! A pair of vintage-inspired aviators to add a bit of ~flair~ to your everyday look. You may even feel like a TikTok influencer when you wear them. A woven tote bag with such an arresting exterior, even the barista at the coffee shop will cut you some slack as you dig through it for five minutes to retrieve your debit card. A pair of retro-inspired sunnies that'll run you less than $20, so if you're the type of person who throws them all willy-nilly in your bag, you won't be out serious dough if they get damaged. A simple herringbone chain you can wear alone or layer with 12 of your other fave necklaces because sometimes more *is* more. An elegant stainless steel Timex watch with a petite oval face and stretchy design that makes it a cinch to slide on and off. Yay for no clasps!! A genuine leather belt that'll literally tie your whole 'fit together and ensure you get ample wear out of all of your bottoms, even if you gain/lose a few pounds here and there. A bold and protective headwrap so you can give your curls the attention they deserve — but sans heat or too much manipulation. A stunning acrylic clutch with room for your keys, cards/cash, and Dior Lip Glow Oil 'cause TikTok has you in a chokehold and you *will* buy whatever the Gen Z influencers tell you to. A layered necklace so simple to style, it may just lay claim to your clavicle for good. And honestly, that's the best kind of piece — the one you never even take off. Some 18K gold-dipped twisted hoops that take ~literally~ no effort or know-how to style. While they're pretty substantial in size, they are unbelievably lightweight, so you don't have to worry about saggy lobes. A pair of polarized frames to protect your peepers as you drive to Starbucks for a grande vanilla iced latte even though you have a whole carafe of cold brew at home. 🤫 And a pair of pavé huggie hoops sure to match whatever you're wearing since they rock all Roy G. Biv shades.
Daily Mail
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
There's nothing more versatile than a white dress - 9 I'll be wearing on repeat this summer, from £29
What do you throw on when you don't feel like putting much thought into getting dressed? For me, the answer is always a dress. A floral frock remains a solid pick, although I'm toughening up the look with a pair of cowboy boots this season; a denim dress is perfect for those low-effort days, teamed with raffia accessories; a polka dot dress is playful yet polished; and a black dress acts as a blank canvas for colourful jewellery to sit against. However, there's another summer wardrobe staple that has endless outfit potential – and that's a white dress. Yes, they're a little more delicate to wear and you probably need to be a little more careful when you're having your lunch al desko, but the number of effortless outfit combinations far outweighs the prospect of any marks. (And those M&S stain removing wipes really do work.) A linen midi will forever be my go-to for staying cool while looking stylish, but I've also fallen in love with the maxi hemline this season. (It's so chic, paired with some barely-there, strappy sandals and a straw tote.) A broderie anglaise dress, be it a floaty midi or boho mini, is a little more forgiving if you're worried about keeping your whites clean – the intricate detailing will distract from any possible stains. But the main reason I love wearing white summer dresses is because they go with just about everything else in my wardrobe, from the black chunky sandals to the dusty pink Polène crossbody bag, and the navy crewneck jumper I tend to throw over my shoulders in the evenings when the temperatures drop a little. So, if you're ready to meet your new favourite warm-weather wardrobe staple? Scroll down for my pick of the nine best white dresses on the high street right now. The best white summer dresses Next Midi Dress £59 Shop Per Una Midaxi Dress £79 Shop H&M Halterneck Dress £37.99 Shop COS Boatneck Dress £95 Shop Nobody's Child Midi Dress £69 Shop Forever New Midi Dress M&S Mini Dress £29.50 Shop Mint Velvet Mini Dress £110 Shop Rixo Midi Dress £255 Shop
Buzz Feed
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
35 Alternatives To Pricey Fashion Items In Your Cart
Buttery soft high-waisted leggings, which are deceivingly identical to Lululemon's Align leggings — and reviewers are calling it out! The only difference? These give you all the buttery soft material and comfiness for a mere fraction of the name-brand price. 👀 Slingback heels because they blend comfort and elegance in the most gorgeous way. Their timeless style might just make these one of your most-used pairs — they'll take you from your daily office routine to casual lunch dates to evening drinks. Many reviewers agree that these also give *major* Chanel vibes. Or some breathable pointed-toe flats ready to keep your feet cushioned and decked out in style. They look and feel as high-quality as Rothy's or Vivaia, without having to spend the extra $70–$100. The stretchy knit upper is comfy and trendy-looking (office days just got a whole lot better!) and you can toss 'em in the wash before they even have the *chance* to get stinky. An oh-so-elegant ribbed button-up tank, which is giving the side eye to the similar Abercrombie & Fitch style that's double the price. 👀 You know what that means? You don't have to limit yourself to just one color. And a cherry bag charm so you can stay on-trend without having to shell out $95 for the Coach charm. This'll add a cute lil' pop of color to any plain bag. Plus, you can get one for every single bag you own without breaking the bank. A flirty corset lace-up sundress with a cute slit and a bustier design that's sure to fit you like a glove. It gives major Bridgerton vibes, but the price tag makes it easier than ever to show up looking like the diamond of the season. And it looks extremely similar to the House of CB version (which goes for over $200 👀). A ribbed workout jumpsuit that reviewers claim looks and feels like Skims-level quality, but asks for way less money out of your wallet than Ms. Kim K. It's compressive but breathable, with four-way stretch so you can pull off all your squats with ease (plus it's thick enough that it won't show your undies). And a long-sleeve bodysuit because it's basically saying "Look at me! Look at me!" before you pull the trigger on that Skims bodysuit. The "Smoke Cloud" fabric is buttery smooth and *not* sheer, and the sweetheart neckline will add a little extra charm to your ensemble even if it's being paired with your fave faded jeans. A faux-leather bag that you'll be dying to show off at your next office day. Just let your work nemesis assume it's Polène's Cyme. And send them an unnecessarily long email while you're at it. Some Nortiv 8 walking shoes because they're designed with pillowy comfort and bold color combos that let them disguise themselves as Hokas. Guess this means you get to splurge a little bit more on your *non*-workout 'fits. A Lululemon-inspired tennis skirt with built-in shorts and a secret inner pocket for your phone so you can hold your iced coffee in one hand and gesticulate with your other as you tell your bestie the latest tea in your love life while on your hot girl walk. Also, no need to worry about a strong breeze. A pair of pilot shield sunglasses that'll make you do a double-take because they're verrrry similar to the $699 Bottega Veneta pair you've been stalking online. Seriously, the attention to detail on these will leave you *spooked*. Or a pair of retro-style oval sunglasses — even the snobbiest of sunglasses connoisseurs would *swear* these are the $400+ Miu Miu ones. And who are you to correct anyone that comes to that conclusion? Or!! A pair of oversize square sunnies to throw on for an instant style boost, no matter what you're wearing. The polarized lenses offer UV 400 protection, so not only will you look amazing, but your eyes will also be shielded from those harsh rays. Plus, reviewers say they look just like the $425 square sunglasses from Bottega Veneta! A beautiful tennis bracelet, because a small, twinkly accessory can add an upscale factor to any outfit. And just look at that Swarovski-like sparkle it gives off (no one would ever know that it's actually cubic zirconia). Or, go all out with a set of golden bracelets so you bling your wrist out without wearing your wallet out. Like this reviewer says, "Cartier who?!" A beaded shoulder bag — alright, I'm gonna have to see some ID because there's no way this isn't the $295 one from Staud. Hey, better to get a little splurgey at Anthro with this little beauty and *not* have to completely wipe out your ~treat yourself~ budget. An elevated laptop tote bag so clean-cut and beautiful it might just empower you to strut through that office like the baddie you are (even though you're dreading sorting through those Monday-morning emails). This stylish piece offers spacious compartments for all your essentials (laptop, makeup bag, books, and more) and keeps them organized and within reach. Reviewers even compare this to (and favor it over) the Béis Work Tote that sells for $148! A spandex-blend slip maxi dress that'll have you looking absolutely chic *and* staying comfy at the same time. Reviewers *love* how the material is just as soft as the trendy Skims version... and some even say it's better! A fanny pack people say is veryyy similar to Lululemon's belt bag, which is over double the price! Use it to keep your phone, wallet, headphones, (and maybe even a protein bar to snack on) close to you and easily accessible. Perfect for travel or everyday use! The strap is long enough to wear crossbody or around your waist, which keeps your arms and hands completely free. Plus, it'll surprise you with just how roomy it is. A pair of sandals that many reviewers say are a wonderful alternative to Birkenstocks (there are 1,000+ reviews comparing them). Their cork footbed quickly adjusts to the contour of your foot *and* they're designed with soft lining and adjustable straps. The comfort of a tennis shoe combined with the effortlessness of a sandal? Yes, please. A pair of lightweight legging-style joggers because they have a tapered design and a stretchy waistband that'll probably make them one of the most reached-for pieces in your closet. And let's not forget the side pockets! Plus, reviewers have not failed to notice how remarkably similar they are to Lulu's Align joggers. 👀 And a soft, stretchy longline sports bra drawing comparisons to a tank from the same collection, so you could achieve the whole Lulu Align ~look~ for a whole lot less. It's designed with a classic V-neckline, sweat-wicking fabric, and goes with, well, anything! You can also pair it with your fave biker shorts or leggings so you can go straight from your errand-packed morning to your afternoon yoga class. Platform slippers in case you've added the similar Ugg Tazz pair to your cart about a million times but haven't been able to checkout just yet. Once you slip your feet into the faux-fur shoes, you'll find you'll be wearing them so often, they'll basically be an extension of you (yup, even in the heat of summer). A pair of stylish teardrop earrings, which simply ooze Bottega Veneta vibes. Accessorize any 'fit with these beauties for an instant ~chic factor.~ Plus! Reviewers say they're so lightweight and comfortable, some even forgot they had them on. And a highly rated pair of hoop earrings reviewers compare to Jennifer Fisher hoops that go for up to hundreds of dollars and say they don't hurt your ears! Whether you're going to lunch with jeans and a plain tee or to an upscale dinner with a dress, these will be the *perfect* touch to tie your whole fit together. A puff-sleeve dress you can wear on *or* off the shoulder, giving us the versatility we need in our lives. It features darling lil' flowers and has been said by one reviewer to be super similar to the popular Nap Dress! BRB, gonna go get it in every color. A pair of gorgeous, super versatile heeled slip-ons if you want all the *slip on, slip off* ease, but in a classic open-toe design — plus they could pass for the version by It brand Dolce Vita. These babies have a thick heel for stability as well as soft, thick braided straps to keep your feet in place. (Because having them slide all over the place can be so annoying!) A plated ring because reaching for that cup of iced coffee will never feel more bougie than this. And since this one doesn't cost thousands of dollars (chill out, Cartier 😭), you live to see another day of affording that $10 coffee. A faux-pearl choker that Vivienne Westwood herself might have to linger on a moment or two to ensure this isn't actually her Mini Bas Relief pearl choker. This'll tie all those sunny brunch ensembles with a pretty bow! And a pair of Buff Bunny–inspired booty-highlighting biker shorts for anyone who would love to add 48 fun colors and prints to their workout wardrobe without spending $48 on each. That booty (and that wallet) are about to be lookin' thicccc. A pair of absolutely *stunning* sparkly stilettos because it'll make you the belle of the ball. They'll easily become the centerpiece of your outfit, and reviewers rave about how surprisingly comfy they are! This reviewer even compares them to the Christian Louboutin So Kate heels. 👀 A glitzy long-sleeve sequin dress in case you admired the 16Arlington dress Hailey Bieber wore, which goes for $765 (*chokes on my Cup O' Noodles*). This under-$100 version is just begging to make an appearance at your next date night and drop. some. jaws. A pair of elevated, effortlessly chic wide-leg petal sweatpants — if you put these in the same room as the ones from Anthropologie and Free People, it'd be looking like that one Spider-Man meme. Reviewers love how cozy and breathable these are, and that the style is perfect for indoor lounging *and* outdoor errands. A half-zip pullover sweatshirt that serves as the ideal layering piece to take on and off for those airport days. It's light enough to make it easy to travel with but warm enough to keep you from getting cold. It'll also run you far less than Lulu's $118 scuba hoodies.
