Who Knew Carrying a Fishing Basket Could Be So Chic?

Who knew carrying a fishing basket could be so chic?  The answer is Jane Birkin, the British actress and singer.  You know the mademoiselle of the ’70s with that certain je nais sais quoi.  Her last name inspired the eponymous Hermès Birken.

I get it, Jane.  It makes sense to tote a functional bag to carry many necessities.  It is not a plastic bag or a stenciled tote, and no high-end investment is needed; it is just a handmade, practical Portuguese basket.  This basket is too chic for transporting Toto and not your average picnic basket.

We live in a society that relishes quick, machine-made, affordable fashion.  It’s a pleasure to see a handmade item embraced by the fashion crowd. The idea that we can support small businesses from artisan basket weavers in Portugal is supportive and sustainable.

It’s interesting to learn that Audrey Hepburn was fond of carrying small baskets as purses in the ’50s. Perhaps Audrey’s childhood farm-girl upbringing drew her to sporting baskets as an adult. We know of another Madame, Coco Chanel, whose childhood memories inspired an iconic hands-free bag.

As a basket lover, rocking a Birkin-like basket is a perfectly functional and fun option for the summer months. Instead of bringing a reusable tote, the basket can be used to shop for fresh fruit, fish, or even the early access Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

There is a range of prices for Birkin baskets. I paid $43.45 for the Maria Lisboa Medium Jane Birkin lacquered basket with lid and scarf.  Also, a shipping charge of $30.36 to mail from Portugal. It took less than 15 business days to receive.

Are you following the basket bag trend? Are you interested in this chic and practical basket? Head over to Esty.com or do a quick Google search for Birkin-like baskets.

Thank you for reading. Have a fabulous and stylish week.