Colored vs. natural RAFFIA bags: how to choose?

A true emblem of artisanal know-how, the RAFFIA bag is now a must-have in every woman's wardrobe. Handmade using traditional crochet techniques, it embodies the subtle balance between elegance and authenticity so sought-after by modern women in France and elsewhere. But should you opt for a colorful or natural RAFFIA bag? Each option has its own charm and adapts to different styles and occasions. As a manufacturer of RAFFIA fashion products from Madagascar, IBELIV can help you make the right choice and harmonize your natural RAFFIA fiber bag with your wardrobe.

It's no coincidence that RAFFIA products are so popular these days! A natural fiber derived from a palm-like tree in Madagascar, RAFFIA 's flexibility and soft, pure color are reminiscent of the warmth of the wilderness. Ideal for those looking for understated elegance, this sober shade complements wardrobes in shades of beige, white, khaki or sienna, reinforcing its authentic, timeless appeal.

Particularly robust, this material guarantees the manufacture of long-lasting products that retain their impeccable appearance over the years. Its raw look blends easily with a variety of materials, from linen to silk to organic cotton. IBELIV even mixes noble materials in its handbags and baskets, with bi-material models made from RAFFIA and leather.

What's more, the meticulous work of our craftsmen leads to sublime results in terms of product creation. More than mere accessories, RAFFIA bags, like RAFFIA Clutches and hats, are transformed into genuine works of art with authentic, timeless charm in the hands of these expert crocheters. Handcrafted in Madagascar, each natural RAFFIA bag is a unique creation bearing the name of the craftswoman who made it.

In collaboration with talented artisans in Madagascar, IBELIV offers RAFFIA bags in vibrant, trendy colors, obtained using natural, environmentally-friendly dyeing techniques. A wide palette of colors directly inspired by nature, and more specifically by the earth of Madagascar! An overview of the shades available in the IBELIV collection.

• Dark Tea : this warm brown with hints of clay and terracotta evokes the warmth of Madagascar.
• Khaki: this brownish green recalls the dense foliage of Madagascar's forests.
• Blue: this deep, rich blue is directly inspired by Madagascar's 5,000-kilometer coastline.
• Fuchsia: with its purplish-pink hue, this vivid color often brightens up Madagascar's markets, filled with handcrafted creations in shimmering hues.
• Anise: a subtle blend of green and yellow, this luminous color also graces the handicrafts of Madagascar's markets, as inspired by the basket-makers.

Wearing a colorful RAFFIA bag means infusing your outfit with a dose of energy. Depending on the season and the occasion, a colorful RAFFIA basket or handbag can be the highlight of your outfit, or a discreet complement that adds depth to your look. The color that adorns your accessory enhances your look while retaining that precious, handcrafted touch that makes it unique.

In the end, between bright nuances and deep tones, the colorful RAFFIA bag proves to be much more than a simple ally for women in search of creative looks. Indeed, color is a language in itself. The choice of RAFFIA color becomes a subtle way of expressing one's mood or personality.

As we've just mentioned, choosing a bag is choosing an extension of yourself, an everyday companion that reflects your world. So, between the sobriety of natural and the boldness of color, which should you choose? Here are a few criteria to help you choose between these two categories.

• Wardrobe style: if your dressing room is characterized by a clean, timeless aesthetic, natural RAFFIA bags seem to be the ideal choice. On the other hand, for those looking for a touch of originality, colored RAFFIA bags are the accessory of choice.
• Versatility: with its raw, sober look, the natural material adapts easily to all your outfits, from casual to dressy. Colored RAFFIA bags, on the other hand, are strong pieces that will energize a more streamlined look.
• How to use it: a natural RAFFIA basket-style tote will perfectly complement a beach look or casual outfit in any season, while colorful bags may be more suited to summer compositions.
• Personality: opting for a bag in natural RAFFIA often reflects a sensitivity to raw, authentic materials, while a model in colored RAFFIA may reflect a more daring, creative personality.

Beyond the criteria we've just mentioned, the RAFFIA bag from Madagascar is a fashion accessory that completes a look. So it's important to look after your style by integrating it harmoniously into your looks. Here are a few inspirations for adopting these fashion products on a daily basis, with guaranteed sublime results. Whether you're a fan of casual outfits or a fan of sophisticated looks, there's something for everyone.

Tote bag in natural RAFFIA with a long white linen dress

Fluid and vaporous, the white linen dress brings femininity and delicacy to your silhouette. Pair it with a natural RAFFIA tote bag with soft, supple lines. It's one of those generous-sized bags that's perfect for summer hats! Complete the ensemble with woven leather sandals and gold jewelry for a bohemian-chic look imbued with simplicity.

Colorful RAFFIA basket with flowing white blouse and flare jeans

In silk chiffon or openwork cotton, the white flowing blouse is perfect for adding a romantic touch to your figure-lengthening indigo flare jeans. The colorful RAFFIA basket, meanwhile, adds a touch of contrast and enhances the ensemble with modernity and freshness.

Mini bag in natural RAFFIA with loose-fitting combination

Linen or cotton gauze jumpsuits are a real hit with women, with their flowing, body-hugging look! Complement this staple of the feminine wardrobe with a mini bag in natural RAFFIA . Wear your RAFFIA bag on the shoulder or cross-body to underline the casual elegance of your outfit.

Dark shoulder bag with flowing beige cotton trench coat

Fall for an elegant cameo composed of a light beige cotton coat, an ochre cashmere scarf and a shoulder bag in dark-colored RAFFIA (MILANO Dark Tea), like the Dark Tea evocative of the warmth of the land of Madagascar. With this outfit, it's the ideal product to add depth to your look.

RAFFIA bags are low-maintenance. In fact, these fashion products retain their original appearance over time, thanks to the quality of the fiber sourced from Madagascar's palm trees and the handcrafting by experienced craftswomen. A simple wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth is all that's needed to maintain these robust products. Got a stain on your RAFFIA basket or bag? Add a little neutral-colored soap to get rid of it. To preserve the intensity of their color, colored RAFFIA bags should not be exposed to prolonged sunlight or moisture.

As you now know, the choice between a colored RAFFIA bag and a natural RAFFIA bag depends on your style, your needs and the occasions when you want to wear it. To perfect your look, simplyexplore the different bag categories available on our site and select the color of your choice before proceeding to checkout.