Wool, leather, velvet: the materials that warm and seduce us in winter become almost unbearable as temperatures rise. The solution? Opt for light, elegant summer fabrics like RAFFIA.

What is RAFFIA ?

RAFFIA is a palm tree that grows mainly in Madagascar, and whose pulp and fibers are woven into a natural, environmentally-friendly material. The branches are shredded after harvesting, then taken to be divided and dried, before being dyed and cleaned.
The harvested fibers are then woven and crocheted by our craftsmen, to create resistant, long-lasting articles and accessories.

This material is central to Madagascar and is used for many purposes in everyday life: while accessories and clothing come to mind first, it is also used for decoration and even construction.

While RAFFIA products are reminiscent of summer and rainforest escapades, they remain timeless. While RAFFIA is in vogue around the world these days, it has been used for centuries by the Malagasy people, and goes beyond the simple summer period.

How to wear RAFFIA ?

There's more than one way to wear RAFFIA. After all, it's used in a wide variety of accessories, hats and bags, reminiscent of summer, but suitable for any occasion. The bohemian style of RAFFIA lends a bohemian edge to every outfit, while remaining chic and elegant.

Hats in RAFFIA

RAFFIA has the advantage of UV protection, making it perfect for summer and sunny days. Being very light, it can be taken anywhere, and many models can even be folded and slipped into a bag or suitcase. But RAFFIA hats aren't just all the rage on the beach: they give a casual, bohemian look for a stroll around town or in the country, and can be worn with a light dress or city outfit, or with jeans and a t-shirt.

  • The timeless capeline in RAFFIA is usually worn with beachwear or a light summer ensemble: the MIARO will be the ideal companion for all your summer outings.
  • A panama will add a sophisticated touch to your outfit, while being very light: the LUBEMAN from the Ibeliv collection.
  • Opt for the retro look of the RAFFIA boater: you can choose to adorn it with ribbon, flowers, and even a glittering chain for added chic.
  • A cowboy hat in RAFFIA will look lighter and more summery than its original big brother. However, its style remains highly distinctive, giving the wearer a mysterious, sophisticated edge: let yourself be tempted by the PLAYA by Ibeliv

Discover the entire RAFFIA Ibeliv hat collection.

Bags in RAFFIA

RAFFIA 's light weight is also an advantage over heavier materials such as leather, which can injure the shoulder when carried over the shoulder. It gives a country style to the wearer, while remaining very presentable and elegant.

  • The tote bag, a familiar sight at the beach, benefits from the durability of RAFFIA. It has plenty of room for picnics, beach towels and anything else you might need for a summer afternoon: choose the RIOthe ideal Ibeliv bag for sandy beaches
  • The classic handbag is often adorned with leather details and handles for added comfort and chic.
  • A shoulder bag is as pretty as an ordinary handbag, but retains the practicality of a tote. Keep your hands free, and hit the streets on summer outings with the TIAKOalso convertible into a clutch bag
  • Useful in all circumstances, from the school bench to a day in the great outdoors, the backpack is timeless. Its pockets and closures guarantee the safety of your belongings, so you won't lose anything along the way, even if the road is bumpy!
  • A chic staple, the clutch is perfect for glamorous evenings and events. Give it a bohemian twist with RAFFIA : AMPY by Ibeliv combines chic, simplicity and functionality. But that doesn't mean giving up elegance. Some are decorated with pearls, braids and other refined additions.

Discover the entire RAFFIA Ibeliv bag collection.

Shoes in RAFFIA

RAFFIA can also be used for shoe soles, like rope soles. This makes RAFFIA wedges, sandals and espadrilles ideal for both day and night: for a casual look, choose a shoe with few details and lots of RAFFIA, to match a long dress or linen shorts. If you're looking for something more chic, you can opt for models with a few shiny details added to the top of the shoe, which can be worn with both streetwear and a summer evening dress.

Other accessories in RAFFIA

Take advantage of RAFFIA and its versatility to wear accessories that match your outfit. Discreet and refined, they bring a certain harmony to your ensemble: combine your RAFFIA hat or bag with a belt, earrings, bracelets and necklaces, or even hair clips embellished with light RAFFIA ornaments.

RAFFIA : a trendy, timeless material

Dresses, hats and bags in RAFFIA were featured on the catwalks of Dior and Dolce & Gabbana in 2020, in collections dedicated to the material, and more and more people are regularly sporting the accessories along beaches, but also at work and in the evening.

RAFFIA is more than just a trend: it's become a real state of mind, a return to simpler, more sustainable, more respectful materials, and always with a touch of sophistication. Explore the Ibeliv website to find timeless, elegant creations to suit your taste.