Home | WebMail |

      Calgary | Regions | Local Traffic Report | Advertise on Action News | Contact

Posted: 2023-07-18T09:45:10Z | Updated: 2023-07-18T09:45:10Z 15 More Affordable Versions Of Alaa's Stunning Woven Tote Bag | HuffPost Life

15 More Affordable Versions Of Alaa's Stunning Woven Tote Bag

These market-style bags have a similar silhouette to the statement-making Alaa bag but at a much lower price point.
Open Image Modal

If there’s one thing you can be absolutely certain that I am going to do, it’s fall in love with a designer bag that is galaxies outside my budget. You can point me in the direction of 100 beautiful purses and, within seconds, I’ll have zeroed in on the one that costs more than my rent. Case in point: this jaw-droppingly gorgeous Alaïa straw and leather basket tote .

Open Image Modal
Nordstrom, Net-a-Porter
Alaa Khaima bag

Have you ever seen anything more divine? It’s essentially a French-style market bag that’s been elevated to the highest form, and I find myself utterly trapped within its clutches. Not only is it elegantly constructed, it’s also functional, with a roomy interior and strong structured handles so you can schlep around all your must-have items and look good doing it. (And, despite its remarkable cost, it’s somehow already almost sold out at Nordstrom .)

Given that it comes with a staggering $2,500 price tag, it is obviously not an option for my lifestyle, leaving me with no recourse but to find similar alternatives to satiate my needs. Luckily, there are quite a few beautiful options available that can fulfill my aesthetic requirements at significantly lower price points.

Below, I’ve rounded up 15 lovely bags inspired by the Alaïa Khaima straw and leather basket tote. Each one captures the original’s silhouette and construction without breaking the bank. Pick one up for yourself to add a timeless touch of sophistication to your summer looks.  

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
Etsy straw market tote
Keep things simple with a classic French-style woven tote from Etsy seller UrBrass . This is the ultimate market bag versatile, simple, minimalist and timeless. You'll feel like you're walking around the French countryside every time you pick it up. It has a woven exterior and leather shoulder straps and handles.
2
Madewell gingham paper straw tote
This Madewell bag is just as elegant as the Alaa bag, but at a fraction of the cost. It has a lovely gingham pattern and leather trim that makes it look much more expensive than it actually is. It's a great spin on the everyday market tote.

3
BTB Los Angeles Sera straw tote
This classic woven straw tote has a similar shape as the Alaa bag, but with sweet summery detailing along the top half of the bag and shoulder straps. It has a casual, beachy aesthetic that works just as well as an everyday bag as it does a vacation bag.
4
Anthropologie
Anthropologie Everyday Tote
There's nothing ordinary about this everyday tote from Anthropologie. It has chic leather shoulder straps that hang down the sides of the bag and that classic market tote shape. It is elegant and simple but with a hint of flair.
5
Bloomingdale's
Kayu Rosie large tote
The feminine detailing on the handles of this woven tote adds a bit of sweetness to an already classic design. It has a roomy interior but a slightly smaller silhouette than most of the bags listed, making it a great midsize option with a touch of panache.
6
Mersea Medina market bag
Lean into a more basket-like aesthetic with this Mersea market bag. You'll feel like you're wandering a Moroccan souk any time you take this beauty for a spin. It's available in four colors and is handwoven and hand-dyed by artisans in Essaouira, a beautiful seaside town in Morocco. It's sturdy, spacious and the perfect spring and summer bag.
7
Mango natural fiber carrycot
If you want a smaller option, this Mango bag is it. I love that it has a removable shoulder strap so you can wear it cross-body and structured handles that echo the shape of the Alaa. The interior of the bag is lined and can be fastened so you can keep your items safe.
8
AllSaints Allington straw tote
Available in four colors, this AllSaints tote is a great variation on the theme. It has that luxury bag feel but comes in at under $140 a steal in comparison! It's sturdy and stylish, with shoulder straps as well as handles and a lined interior and detachable pouch.
9
Szane Paloma basket
I can't get enough of the unique details along the sides of this handwoven raffia bag from French brand Szane. The funky exterior adds a ton of visual interest. It captures the same luxurious essence as the Alaa but with a much more casual and laid-back quality. You can get it in two different colors.
10
Neiman Marcus
Tory Burch Ella striped basket tote bag
Tory Burch couldn't be cooler these days, and this bag is no exception. Featuring the iconic stiched logo, this bag has cool features that make this market tote special and a cut above your usual beach bag. Its also available in a solid straw weave with brown trim at Saks Fifth Avenue.
11
Anine Bing
Anine Bing mini Como tote
This Anine Bing bag is almost as swoon-worthy as the Alaa. It's made with sturdy woven seagrass and has rich, smooth black leather accents and handles. The brand's monogram adorns the front rim, and the spacious interior has a fully lined compartment, an interior zip pocket and a slip pocket. It's a great alternative with beautiful, high-end construction that will serve you well for seasons to come.
12
Matches Fashion
Dragon Diffusion Triple Jump large woven-leather basket bag
Can't you just see your beautiful farmers market flowers and vegetables draped across this lovely basket-like bag? While its made from leather and not straw, it has a tightly woven design that calls to mind the streamlined nature of the Alaa, but with a more casual, laid-back silhouette.
13
Simon Milller x Mango geometric design bag
While the materials here couldn't be more different from the other bags in this lineup, the overall silhouette of this echoes the unique shape of the Alaa bag. It's a great alternative for anyone who loves to lean into the funkier elements. It's made of silica gel that feels smooth and jelly-like.
14
Atuzarra large windmill woven palm tote
The cage-like pattern of the hand-stitched leather detailing gives this usually wholesome silhouette an almost sexy vibe. It has a roomy interior and braided shoulder straps that are perfect for schlepping everything from beach gear to groceries and everyday essentials without looking dowdy. It's available with black or white leather straps.
15
Saks Fifth Avenue
Chlo Sense woven raffia tote
You'll have to forgive me for the price, but I just couldn't leave out this beautiful Chlo bag. Despite its casual shape and silhouette, it has that same high-end sophistication as the Alaa that I covet. Made in Spain, it's available with black or brown embroidered leather handles.
16
Net-a-Porter
Alaa Khaima leather-trimmed straw tote
Despite the egregious price, I can't help but get swept away by this romantic basket-inspired tote. It's dreamy, curved shape, soft leather details and jaunty straps get me right in the heart. It's the ultimate summer bag for everything from market day to a trip to the seaside. You can get it in black at Net-a-Porter or in white at Nordstrom.

Before You Go

The Best Cooler Bags At Target, Because You Know You Need One Right Now
CleverMade Eco Coronado backpack cooler(01 of07)
Open Image Modal
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

It looks like your typical backpack, but this option from CleverMade is actually an adorable ice cooler. You can get it in blue stripes (above) or in a more neutral green .

Promising review: "We love this cooler! It was so nice not to have to drag the typical hard cooler to the beach this year. I fit drinks and lunch for four for an all day trip. It was easy to carry too. Love it!" Crys
(credit:Target)
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze zipperless hardbody cooler(02 of07)
Open Image Modal
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Unlike most fabric coolers, this one from Arctic Zone doesn't have a zipper for even quicker access to your food and beverages. There is a hardbody cover inside that can be removed as needed.

Promising review: "Just what I wanted, spacious and sturdy. Love the colors and the fact that I can just wipe away stains. Also I love the zipper less entry" ThePriceIsRight
(credit:Target)
Igloo Luxe tote cooler bag(03 of07)
Open Image Modal
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

This may look like a designer bag, but upon closer inspection you'll realize it's actually an Igloo cooler. The straps can even be adjusted to wear it as a crossbody bag.

Promising review: "I love my new lunch bag. I cant believe it took this long for someone to make a nice looking bag! I got the big tote bag in cognac and I use it every single day. It looks so nice walking into work with a professional looking bag instead of the old brightly colored one I used to carry. I love that I can fit my coffee, water, lunch, and snacks in there with room to spare. This bag also keeps my lunch cold way better than my old bag. Overall, a great buy!" BrieW
(credit:Target)
Vera Bradley Lunch Cooler(04 of07)
Open Image Modal
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Available in four colors and patterns, this lunch bag from Vera Bradley can hold up to six cans. It's lightweight and water repellant and even better, it's made from recycled materials.

Promising review: "This is a great lunch bag. I love the shape because it will hold a bowl of food and keep it upright when carrying the bag. This is exactly what I was looking for. The material is solid and seems to have good insulation. I love the cute design with the turtles. I may also use this bag to bring drinks and snacks to the beach this summer. Highly recommend this lunch bag." Mary Ann
(credit:Target)
Igloo Marine square 32-quart cooler(05 of07)
Open Image Modal
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

From beloved cooler brand Igloo, this ice chest can keep your food and drink cold up to two days. The exterior is treated with UV protection and anti-mildew technology so you don't have to worry about keeping it outside on a long day.

Promising review: "Its perfect in every way. Roomy, well made, great materials, looks good, is very practical. Excellent buy." Liv&Lulu
(credit:Target)
Zodaca 90's fanny pack cooler bag(06 of07)
Open Image Modal
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

We bet you haven't seen one of these before it's a fanny pack and cooler hybrid. While it only fits three cans, you can clip it onto your waist and have a cold drink into your hike or during a day on the lake.

Promising review: "Use this as a home health nurse, great size, always a conversation starter & keeps my hands free while being easy to clean." TheFlowerMaven
(credit:Target)
Juvale four-person wicker picnic basket set(07 of07)
Open Image Modal
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

While this may not technically be a cooler bag, it was too great to keep off our list. One side of this picnic basket is insulated to keep your food and beverages chilled, while the other side is packed with included utensils, plates and glasses so you have everything you need for your picnic.

Promising review: "This is a beautiful basket. I had been looking for a 4 person picnic basket for a while but was unhappy with the plastic cutlery. The basket is large, sturdy and the pieces included seem good quality." alex
(credit:Target)

HuffPost Shoppings Best Finds

MORE IN SHOPPING