Making Ibiza raffia shopping work for back-to-school: A no-regret story
Bought raffia in Ibiza and now feeling the regret? Don’t sweat it—we’ve got the tips to make it work for the new season of School and the City
Remember that overpriced raffia item you impulsively bought in Ibiza, convinced it would be your wardrobe’s MVP? Yep, the one that now looks sadly out of place as you awkwardly shuffle it between outfits, hoping for some kind of city-approved magic? Well, worry not—we’re here to help you rock that raffia with zero regrets.
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A Quick Dive into Raffia History—Because Knowledge Is Power (And Helps with Styling)
Raffia is sourced from the leaves of the Raffia palm tree, which grows in tropical regions such as Africa, Madagascar, and South America. Fun trivia: these leaves are among the longest in the plant kingdom, making them ideal for spinning into a versatile, durable fibre that’s both timeless and trendy.
Raffia has been a staple in African and Malagasy cultures for centuries, traditionally woven into everything from textiles to baskets and mats. Today, it’s a darling of the fashion world, blending cultural heritage with a contemporary twist that’s effortlessly chic.
The Many Perks of Raffia, Explained
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Lightweight: Raffia pieces are delightfully light, making them perfect for those sticky, end-of-summer days when the city feels like a furnace. Whether it’s a hat or a bag, raffia has your back, keeping things breezy and stylish.
Breathable and Cool: Naturally breathable, raffia helps you stay cool—an absolute lifesaver when you’re gearing up for back-to-school in a hotter-than-ever metropolis.
Versatile: Raffia is a true chameleon, pairing well with a range of looks from laid-back casual to polished evening ensembles. Plus, it can be dyed easily, meaning you can find it in any colour to match your style.
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Sustainable: As a natural, biodegradable material, raffia aligns with the ever-growing eco-friendly fashion movement. Opting for raffia is a responsible choice that looks good and does good.
How to Work Raffia into Your Back-to-School Wardrobe
Raffia is your new BFF—practical, fashionable, and sustainable. With its lightweight and breathable qualities, it’s a go-to for effortless elegance and comfort. Plus, its versatility means it fits seamlessly into any wardrobe.
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Hats: Whether it’s a wide-brimmed sun hat or a chic fedora, raffia hats are your secret weapon for looking put-together while staying protected from the sun. Instant sophistication, guaranteed.
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Bags: Raffia bags are the perfect way to carry a slice of summer with you as you transition back to reality. From spacious totes to sleek clutches, these bags are practical, cool, and—let’s be real—totally Prada-approved.
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Shoes: Raffia sandals and espadrilles are the definition of easy chic: comfy yet stylish, they’re ideal for both casual outings and slightly dressier occasions. Just make sure the vibe is more “relaxed elegance” than “night-out formal.”
So go on, give that Ibiza raffia the city debut it deserves. You’ve got this!
Sophia Scherling
Fashion Management, Digital Communication and Media, 2nd year, Milano
A version of this article originally appeared on Minalú, an editorial project created by students from Istituto Marangoni’s Fashion Management, Digital Communication, and Media programme, with Celine Hodroj serving as Editor-in-Chief.