Saint Laurent Icare Maxi Shopping Bag in Raffia Crochet
Maxi Tote / Beach Bag / Shopper · Saint Laurent (Kering), designed by Creative Director Anthony Vaccarello. Luxury tier with a reputation for Parisian chic and edgy elegance.
Collection: Icare Collection; part of the Spring/Summer 2023 seasonal offerings, though the Icare silhouette is a flagship permanent line.
Style
Maxi Tote / Beach Bag / Shopper
Brand
Saint Laurent (Kering), designed by Creative Director Anthony Vaccarello. Luxury tier with a reputation for Parisian chic and edgy elegance.
Material
Body is crafted from woven raffia (viscose) in a complex crochet pattern. The base features a tighter knit for structural support. It is handmade or hand-finished using traditional weaving techniques to create a breathable, lightweight texture.
Dimensions
Large/Maxi size: Width approx 38-58cm (tapered), Height 43cm, Depth 8cm. Top handle drop is approximately 15-20cm.
Description
The Saint Laurent Icare Maxi Raffia Shopping Bag is a summer-ready interpretation of the house's most famous oversized tote. It combines a relaxed, boho-chic aesthetic with the high-octane glamour of the polished gold YSL logo. Its massive scale makes a bold fashion statement while remaining functional for travel or beach-to-city transitions.
Key Features
Oversized proportions, massive central YSL Cassandre logo, internal toggle system to fold the sides, and a distinct circular-integrated handle design.
Material & Construction
Body is crafted from woven raffia (viscose) in a complex crochet pattern. The base features a tighter knit for structural support. It is handmade or hand-finished using traditional weaving techniques to create a breathable, lightweight texture.
Color & Pattern
Natural tan/beige shade consistent with organic raffia. Features a chevron-inspired open-work crochet pattern that creates a tactile, geometric texture across the main body.
Hardware Details
Features the oversized iconic YSL Cassandre logo in high-shine gold-tone metal. The logo is centrally placed on the front. Gold-tone hardware is typically used for the toggle closure inside and structural rivets.
Interior Description
Unlined, showcasing the raw craftsmanship of the raffia weave. Usually includes a removable matching zippered internal pouch in leather or canvas for security of smaller items.
Closure Type
Open top with an internal lobster-claw/toggle chain that can be used to pull the sides inward, changing the silhouette from a flat tote to a kite shape.
Strap & Handle Details
Integrated circular top handles wrapped in matching woven raffia. These are designed for hand-carrying or a tight crook-of-the-arm carry.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional tension in the crochet weave creates a sturdy fabric despite the natural fibers. The logo is securely anchored through the weave with reinforced backing to prevent sagging or pulling on the raffia.
Authentication Indicators
The YSL logo should be perfectly centered with a heavy, substantial feel. The 'Y' should overlap the 'S' and 'L' in a specific pattern. The crochet loops should be uniform and consistent. Authentic raffia variants also feature a specific 'SAINT LAURENT PARIS' heat stamp on the internal leather toggle link.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy or Madagascar (depending on batch sourcing for raffia). Madagascar is the premium source for high-quality raffia, while finishing is completed in Italian ateliers.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2020s). Designed during the 'Big Bag' revival era, specifically riding the trend of luxury holiday-wear and elevated beach accessories.
Age Estimate
Produced between late 2022 and 2024, following the massive success of the leather Icare Maxi launched in original seasons prior.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward 'Quiet Luxury' vacation wear where logo-placement remains bold but the material choice (raffia) suggests effortless, artisanal leisure.
Condition Notes
Exterior appears in excellent condition with no visible fraying or 'hairy' raffia bits. The gold logo shows high luster without significant surface scratching. Structure remains upright, suggesting minimal use.
Value Estimate
Retail: ~$4,200 - $4,800 USD. Resale: $3,200 - $3,900 USD depending on condition and include of internal pouch.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid heavy moisture and rain; raffia can lose shape when wet. Store stuffed with acid-free tissue in a dust bag. Clean with a very soft, dry brush to remove dust from the weave. Do not overfill as raffia can stretch over time.
Similar Handbags
Prada Crochet Tote Bag (smaller, more casual), Loewe Paula's Ibiza Basket Bags (more structured), and the original Saint Laurent Icare in Quilted Lambskin.
Interesting Facts
The leather version of this bag became the 'It-Bag' of 2022 after being seen on celebrities like Zoë Kravitz and Hailey Bieber; this raffia version was the subsequent highly-anticipated holiday update.