Models
The Loewe Basket bag
By the Encore Luxe specialists · Updated October 2026
Loewe's Basket bag takes one of the oldest forms in craft, a woven basket, and treats it with the seriousness of a leather house. Iraca palm leaf is hand-woven into a generous tote, then finished with calfskin handles and the Loewe anagram. It is a summer bag in spirit, and one that has become a signature of the house.
Key facts
| House | Loewe, founded in Madrid in 1846 |
| Materials | Woven palm leaf with calfskin trim |
| Signature details | Leather handles, anagram on the front |
| Sizes | Several, commonly small, medium and large |
A leather house that weaves
Loewe began as a cooperative of leather craftsmen in Madrid in 1846 and became one of Spain's great luxury houses, appointed supplier to the Spanish Royal Household in 1905. Its identity has always rested on craft: the softness of its leather, the precision of its construction and a long interest in traditional techniques. Under creative director Jonathan Anderson, from 2013, Loewe celebrated crafts from many traditions, and woven baskets became central to its summer collections.
The design
The Basket bag is an open tote of woven palm leaf, its shape sturdy but light. Calfskin leather forms the handles and frames the opening, and the anagram, Loewe's four interlocking Ls, is set into the front in leather. The weave is tight and even. The proportions are simple, which is what makes it so easy to carry.
We currently have a Loewe Basket bag in the large size, which is described in its listing with box and dust bag.
Carrying it
The large Basket bag holds a day's essentials with room for a book, a scarf and a water bottle. It is carried by hand or in the crook of the arm. It belongs with linen, cotton and summer dresses, but it also looks good against autumn knitwear, which is why many owners use it well beyond the holidays. A small pouch inside keeps small items from slipping through the open top.
Sizes
The Basket bag has been made in several sizes. The smallest are compact, almost sculptural, and carry little more than a phone and keys. The medium is an easy everyday size. The large, like the one in our shop, is a proper tote: generous enough for a day out, with handles long enough to sit comfortably in the crook of the arm.
Care
Palm leaf is natural fibre and needs gentle treatment:
- Keep it dry. Water can soften and distort the weave and mark the leather.
- Avoid heat. Do not leave it in a hot car or by a radiator; dry fibres become brittle.
- Store it stuffed. Fill it lightly with tissue so it keeps its shape.
- Do not crush it. Store it upright, with space around it.
- Mind the leather. Treat the calfskin handles as you would any fine leather and keep hand cream away from them.
Our leather handbag care guide covers more.
Authenticating Loewe
We check the quality and evenness of the weave, the leather and its edges, the anagram, stamps and interior details. Read our Loewe brand guide or browse Loewe in our shop.
Questions we’re often asked
- What is the Loewe Basket bag made of?
The Basket bag is woven from palm leaf and finished with calfskin leather handles and trim, with the Loewe anagram on the front.
- What sizes does the Loewe Basket bag come in?
It is made in several sizes, commonly from small through medium to large. The large size is roomy enough to carry everyday essentials, a book and a light layer.
- Can a Loewe Basket bag get wet?
It is best kept dry. Water can distort the weave and mark the leather trim. If it gets damp, blot it gently and let it dry naturally, away from heat.
- How should I store a basket bag?
Store it lightly stuffed with tissue so it holds its shape, in a breathable bag, away from heat and direct sunlight, and never crushed beneath other bags.