Forget the Wrong Shoe Theory—I'm Backing the Wrong *Bag* Theory All Summer Long

In 2023, stylist Allison Bornstein introduced the now-viral concept of the "wrong shoe theory," which quickly took the fashion world by storm. The idea is simple yet impactful: Choose shoes that intentionally clash with the rest of your outfit. Bornstein states this unexpected contrast gives fashion insiders an effortlessly cool, eye-catching look.

While the wrong shoe theory is still going strong among the style set, there’s a new idea gaining traction—what I’m calling the “wrong bag theory.”

Specifically, I’m talking about raffia bags. Much like the wrong shoe theory, this concept involves taking an item out of its traditional context. Once reserved for the beach, pool, or boat days, straw bags are now being styled for everyday occasions—from brunches to casual dinners. The result is a look that feels intentional, fresh, and fashion-forward.

To illustrate further, instead of pairing these summery bags with swimsuits and cover-ups, experienced shoppers are now wearing them with jeans and blouses or linen trousers and cozy sweaters. Want to see the wrong bag theory in action? Keep scrolling because we’ve gathered a range of outfit examples from across the internet.

How to Implement the Wrong Bag Theory

Strapless Maxi Dress + Headscarf + Straw Tote

Style Notes: Loewe's Anagram tote is a popular designer raffia bag among fashion people. In the past, it was used to carry sunscreen, a book, and sunglasses to the beach, but today, the style set uses it as their daytime bag for exploring and shopping in town. We love how Parisian creator Emmanuelle Koffi paired hers with a drop-waist, strapless maxi dress and a silk headscarf. The bag adds an unexpected finishing touch to an elegant look, feeling fresher than if she had styled it with a leather tote.

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Blouse + Wide-Leg Jeans + Flip-Flops + Straw Tote

Style Notes: Next time you’re in a style rut and reach for your go-to white button-down and wide-leg jeans, skip the usual leather workbag or suede shoulder bag, and grab a straw tote instead. Whether you’re dropping the kids off at school, heading to the office, or meeting a friend for coffee, the bag adds an effortless touch of texture and warmth that instantly pulls your look together.

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Printed Blouse + Cropped Jeans + Ballet Flats + Straw Bucket Bag

Style Notes: Forget what you think you know about raffia bags being just for summer. These versatile accessories transition effortlessly into fall and spring, adding a natural, tactile texture that elevates any outfit—even gray jeans and a draped plaid blouse. If you're unsure about styling a classic straw tote, take a cue from content creator Makenna Alyse McReynolds and opt for a leather-trimmed raffia bucket bag instead.

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Sweater + Trousers + Flip-Flops + Straw Tote

Style Notes: Cotton or linen trousers paired with a straw bag is a go-to outfit formula we've seen on repeat this season. But here’s a fresh twist: Swap the expected blouse for a chunky sweater, as shown here. The result? An easy and elevated look that's chic, cozy, and completely effortless.

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Trench Coat + Hat + Sandals + Straw Tote

Style Notes: You might not expect an oversize raffia tote to pair well with a waterproof trench coat and sandals—but somehow, it works. The bag adds a breezy, summer-ready touch that balances the practicality of the trench and the lightness of the hat, making the outfit perfect for those in-between days marked by surprise showers. The sandals complete the look, reinforcing its warm-weather vibe while keeping things polished.

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Colorful Blouse + Cropped Trousers + Flats + Straw Top-Handle Bag

Style Notes: The wrong bag theory isn't limited to raffia totes; structured picnic-style bags are also part of the style approach. You can match it with a plaid blouse, white trousers, and sandals as shown, or create a more unexpected look with a miniskirt set.

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