# Looks & Merit
*from top to bottom*
1. Cult Gaia Gaia’s Ark Bamboo Bag
This has been the it-bag of the spring for sure, bloggers everywhere are carrying it and I love that it’s a statement bag in a neutral hue. If you’ve been searching for a statement bag for the spring and summer months, this is it.
2. Indego Africa Blush-Striped Straw Bag
This bag is both super practical and majorly stylish. It’s roomy enough to throw in your sunscreen stash on your next vacation but still small enough to carry as an everyday bag with a definitely cool factor.
Bags in unusual shapes are everywhere these days and I adore the bucket shape of this bag! At the Zara price point, this choice is an affordable way to add a straw bag with some unique details into your rotation.
I am obsessed with this clutch. The fringe is a great detail and the shape and size of this bag make it perfect for carrying during the daytime or in the evening. The best part about this clutch is that it’s $30! Your friends aren’t going to believe how stylish you look or what a great deal you found.
5. Milly Pom Pom Straw Clutch
This clutch is everything your spring and summer Instagrams are needing. The pops of blue, metallic and orange make this straw bag next-level cute and it’s perfectly sized. It also features a water-resistant seersucker lining – so you can throw in your mini sunscreen and rollerball perfume without worry. Be prepared for major friend envy when you’re carrying this gem.
3 Tips for Carrying Straw Bags
1. Unless you’re at the beach, avoid wearing anything that looks too similar to a cover-up when you’re carrying a straw bag. The point here is to sport a trend, not look like you just left the pool.
2. Don’t assume that straw bags are only for daytime! Don’t be afraid to dress up and carry your favorite new straw bag or clutch in the evening. It’s the perfect neutral accessory that looks great with colors like black or red.
3. If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your natural-hued straw bag, tie on a handkerchief to the handle. Don’t fuss over whether or not the color or pattern matches your outfit perfectly, the point is to add another interesting element to your bag.
*Hannah Benak is a public relations executive in Birmingham and the curator of Looks & Merit, which provides sensible style advice for women everywhere. Hannah’s experience in the fashion industry includes work with ELLE Magazine, designer Billy Reid and fashion blogs. She is fiercely passionate about empowering women to feel great about their outfits and their accomplishments, because #looksandmerit are not mutually exclusive. Follow along on Instagram @looksandmerit.*
