Simons
Contrast Trim Braided Straw Xl Tote Bag
The Contrast Trim Braided Straw XL Tote Bag is a large, rectangular tote made from soft paper straw with a removable polyester lining. It features contrasting tan trim around the braided dark brown body and includes grab or shoulder handles. Measuring 13 inches tall, 16.5 inches long, and 7 inches deep, this bag offers a roomy interior for everyday essentials or travel items.
- Material
- Soft paper straw
- Category
- Luggage & Bags > Shopping Totes
Color
Size
Specifications
Braided straw tote bag with contrast trim, removable polyester lining, and grab or shoulder handles.
Soft paper straw material, removable polyester lining, grab or shoulder handles.
- Material
- Soft paper straw
- Secondary
- polyester
- Gender
- female
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Dimensions
- 16.5x7x13 in
- Category
- Luggage & Bags > Shopping Totes
Additional Attributes
- soft paper straw
- removable polyester lining
- grab handles
- shoulder handles
- contrast trim
Product Insights
The Contrast Trim Braided Straw Xl Tote Bag by Simons offers a lightweight, strong alternative to natural straw with rich color absorption and a smooth finish, but its open top and maintenance needs—trimming loose strands, limiting handle loads, and inserting a rigid base—make it best for occasional or seasonal use, while the removable polyester liner protects against moisture and wear.
- Weight and strength
Lighter than natural straw with a strength-to-weight ratio that carries everyday items without weave distortion.
Why this is supported
Paper straw is an engineered material that significantly reduces bag weight while maintaining durability. As
Compared to bags made from natural straw, paper straw bags tend to be lighter in weight, making them more comfortable to carry for extended periods.
newstep2000.comThe engineered construction from tightly twisted kraft pulp provides tensile strength, allowing the XL tote to hold a rolled towel and water bottle without distorting the weave.
Paper straw — An engineered material made from tightly twisted kraft or pulp paper yarn, treated for tensile strength.
handbraid.comThus, the bag offers a favorable strength-to-weight profile that natural straw alternatives cannot match.
- Color and finish
Deep dye absorption gives the tote rich Chocolate/Espresso and Light Brown colorways that natural straw cannot match.
Why this is supported
The engineered paper yarn absorbs dye uniformly, enabling the bag's two-tone design. As noted,
The paper fibers can be dyed in a wide array of colors, allowing for more creative and vibrant designs.
newstep2000.comThis gives the Chocolate/Espresso and Light Brown colorways deep saturation that natural straw cannot achieve.
- Texture
Smooth uniform texture gives the tote a clean, polished finish unlike coarser natural straw.
Why this is supported
The paper straw's surface is smoother and more uniform than natural fibers. As described,
Paper straw has a smoother and more uniform texture compared to raffia. It offers a cleaner, more polished look
newstep2000.comThis makes the contrast trim appear as an intentional design accent rather than a cover for irregularities.
- Moisture management
Removable polyester liner prevents moisture damage to paper straw and is machine-washable.
Why this is supported
The paper straw exterior is sensitive to water, but the removable polyester liner offers a practical solution. One care source advises,
Avoid submerging the entire bag in water.
bonjourbag.comInstead,
gently wipe with a slightly damp cloth and avoid soaking, as paper straw is not waterproof. The removable polyester lining can be hand washed or machine washed on a delicate cycle and air dried to maintain its shape.
How should I clean this bag? Can the straw exterior be wiped with a damp cloth, and is the removable lining machine washable?This allows easy cleaning while preventing moisture damage to the straw, extending the bag's life.
- Protective design
Removable interior lining and contrast trim protect the bag from snags and abrasion.
Why this is supported
The removable polyester lining protects the interior from snags and friction, and the contrasting braided trim
can take friction where your hand and shoulder hit it most.
ericjavits.comIn addition, the liner is fully replaceable –
You can swap, wash, or replace the liner anytime while keeping your bag clean and durable.
instagram.com- Maintenance
Prevent fraying and sagging by trimming loose strands, limiting handle loads, and inserting a rigid base.
Why this is supported
To prevent fraying,
If you notice any small frays, gently trim them with scissors to prevent further unraveling.
walletsnhandbags.comAs for handle loads, the bag should not be overpacked because
carrying it by the handles when the bag’s heavily packed risks fast wear on those points
smart.dhgate.comTo maintain shape, consider a rigid base, since without it
- Use case
Best for occasional or seasonal outings; open top allows easy liner removal but lacks closure for small items.
Why this is supported
This tote is
best suited for occasional or seasonal use rather than heavy weekly wear, as it can be prone to fraying or damage from moisture and heavy loads.
How durable is the soft paper straw material? Will it hold up to regular weekly use or is it more suited for occasional outings?The opening is fully open, and
Remove the liner for cleaning, but note that it
lets you switch between a fully lined tote that keeps tiny items from slipping through the straw weave and an open, unlined basket that shakes free of sand
What this XL size can carry and how it carries — removable_polyester_lining, so small items may spill without the liner.
- Structural weak points
Keep weight under 5 lb to avoid bottom sag and handle stress.
Why this is supported
The woven straw tote has two stress points: the base can sag and the handle attachments can loosen under load. Sources note that
without the bottom sagging or the handle attachment points stretching out, a common failure in woven bags
hoplokleather.comand that
carrying it by the handles when the bag's heavily packed risks fast wear on those points
smart.dhgate.com. So Catalog advises keeping the bag under roughly five pounds and inspecting the attachment areas after each use.
- Fraying prevention
Promptly trim snagged strands; contrast trim reduces edge wear.
Why this is supported
The braided weave depends on interlocking tension; a snapped strand can cause rapid unraveling.
If one strand snaps, the tension is released, creating a hole that rapidly expands (unravels).
hoplokleather.comTo prevent this,
If you notice any small frays, gently trim them with scissors to prevent further unraveling.
walletsnhandbags.comThe contrast trim around edges and handle mounts also reduces friction, taking the brunt of daily contact. As one source puts it,
Material choice: Look for straw that is designed to pack well, plus trim that can take friction where your hand and shoulder hit it most.
ericjavits.com- Cleaning
Shell: Paper straw; Lining: Polyester. Removable lining prevents snags; machine wash liner, wipe straw exterior.
Why this is supported
The bag includes a removable polyester lining that acts as a barrier against snags and moisture. One source recommends
Adding a fabric lining: If your bag doesn't have one, sewing in a soft cotton lining protects the straw inside from friction and spills.
smart.dhgate.comThe removable design goes further:
Why go removable? You can swap, wash, or replace the liner anytime while keeping your bag clean and durable.
instagram.comCleaning instructions are split:
For the straw exterior, gently wipe with a slightly damp cloth and avoid soaking, as paper straw is not waterproof. The removable polyester lining can be hand washed or machine washed on a delicate cycle and air dried to maintain its shape.
How should I clean this bag? Can the straw exterior be wiped with a damp cloth, and is the removable lining machine washable?This care split prevents water damage and brittleness in the paper straw.
The lining is made of polyester and is designed to be removable and machine-washable. According to the product research, the liner
lets you switch between a fully lined tote that keeps tiny items from slipping through the straw weave and an open, unlined basket that shakes free of sand
What this XL size can carry and how it carries — removable_polyester_lining. This dual purpose makes the tote versatile for different settings, from beach to brunch.
The paper straw shell has verified advantages over natural materials: it is
lighter in weight, making them more comfortable to carry for extended periods
newstep2000.comAdditionally,
paper fibers can be dyed in a wide array of colors, allowing for more creative and vibrant designs
newstep2000.comand
Paper straw has a smoother and more uniform texture compared to raffia.
newstep2000.com- Usage frequency
Best for occasional or seasonal use, not everyday heavy wear.
Why this is supported
The soft paper straw construction means
The soft paper straw material is best suited for occasional or seasonal use rather than heavy weekly wear, as it can be prone to fraying or damage from moisture and heavy loads.
How durable is the soft paper straw material? Will it hold up to regular weekly use or is it more suited for occasional outings?So the bag is a warm-weather accent piece, not an everyday workhorse.
- Lining
Removable machine-washable lining protects straw, secures items, and converts to a beach bag.
Why this is supported
The removable polyester lining is machine-washable:
The removable polyester lining can be hand washed or machine washed on a delicate cycle and air dried to maintain its shape.
How should I clean this bag? Can the straw exterior be wiped with a damp cloth, and is the removable lining machine washable?This allows cleaning without wetting the straw, which is recommended against:
Avoid submerging the entire bag in water.
bonjourbag.comThe lining also protects the straw from snags and spills, as lining prevents friction damage.
Adding a fabric lining: If your bag doesn’t have one, sewing in a soft cotton lining protects the straw inside from friction and spills.
smart.dhgate.comWhen the liner is removed, the bag sheds sand easily, and when in place, it keeps small items from slipping through the weave,
a bag with a lining, a zip pocket, or a closure keeps your essentials secure
poorlittleitgirl.comcontrasting with unlined bags.
Unlined
stylight.caFurthermore, the liner can be removed entirely for beach use, and the removable feature allows easy swapping or washing:
Why go removable? You can swap, wash, or replace the liner anytime while keeping your bag clean and durable.
instagram.com- Silhouette
Horizontal basket-like shape from shorter 13 versus 15.75–17.25 heights.
Why this is supported
This tote stands 13 inches tall. For comparison, Simons' openwork tote is
Height: 17.25 (44 cm) Length: 17.25 (44 cm)
stylight.caand the tassel-charm tote is
Height: 15.75 (40 cm) Length: 17.25 (44 cm)
stylight.ca. This creates a more horizontal basket-like shape, shorter by 2.75 to 4.25 inches.
- Closure
Open top for grab-and-go; zip-top tote adds security.
Why this is supported
This tote has an open top with no closure. This differs from the Simons crocheted tote, which features a
Zip on top
lyst.com. The open top enables faster access, but offers less containment security, trading off for grab-and-go convenience.
- Size
At 7 inches deep and 13 inches tall, this tote holds more than shallow budget totes and offers easier access than taller Simons totes.
Why this is supported
The tote's 7-inch depth outpaces shallow budget competitors:
Dimensions (Overall): 9.4 inches (H) x 9.4 inches (W) x 3 inches (D)
target.comand
Dimensions (Overall): 14.68 inches (H) x 12 inches (W) x 3.2 inches (D)
target.com. Its 13-inch height is shorter than Simons' other XL totes, including the openwork tote at
Height: 17.25 (44 cm) Length: 17.25 (44 cm)
stylight.caand the tassel-charm tote at 15.75 inches.
The tote's official dimensions are 7 inches (width) and 13 inches (height). These measurements provide practical usability: the 7-inch depth can
hold a rolled beach towel, a full water bottle, and a pouch side by side without the weave distorting
What this XL size can carry and how it carries — 7_inch_width, and the shorter height compared to other Simons XL straw totes
makes finding items at the bottom less of a rummage
What this XL size can carry and how it carries — 13_inch_height_vs_simons_other_xl_straw_totes. This means users can see and reach everything without digging through the bag.
- Durability
Handles allow grab and shoulder carry; contrast trim reinforces stress points, but base may sag under weight and handles can stress if overloaded; inspect for frays.
Why this is supported
The handles are designed for versatility:
The handles are designed for both grab and shoulder carry
What this XL size can carry and how it carries — grab_or_shoulder_handlesThe contrast trim absorbs friction at stress points, as
trim that can take friction where your hand and shoulder hit it most
ericjavits.comHowever, the bag has limitations common to woven totes:
without the bottom sagging or the handle attachment points stretching out, a common failure in woven bags
hoplokleather.comAdditionally, a snapped strand can cause rapid unraveling, so trim frays promptly.
- Carry comfort
Lightweight paper straw and dual-handle versatility allow comfortable all-day carry.
Why this is supported
The tote's dual-handle design allows flexible carry modes,
you can hand-carry the bag through a market and then sling it over your shoulder when you need your hands free
What this XL size can carry and how it carries — grab_or_shoulder_handles. Its paper straw material reduces weight,
Compared to bags made from natural straw, paper straw bags tend to be lighter in weight, making them more comfortable to carry for extended periods.
newstep2000.com. The 13-inch height and 7-inch width further enhance comfort and stability without adding bulk.
- Ease of access
Open top with removable lining allows easy access while preventing item loss.
Why this is supported
The tote has no closure,
This tote does not have any closure — it is completely open at the top, with no zipper, magnet, or snap.
Does the tote have any closure (zipper, magnet, or snap) or is it completely open at the top?. The removable lining provides security for small items:
The removable polyester lining lets you switch between a fully lined tote that keeps tiny items from slipping through the straw weave and an open, unlined basket that shakes free of sand
What this XL size can carry and how it carries — removable_polyester_lining.
- Edge and handle protection
Contrast trim protects the bag's edges and handle bases from fraying.
Why this is supported
Research on straw bag durability indicates that the contrast trim serves a protective function. A customer question highlights that straw bags are
prone to fraying or damage from moisture and heavy loads
How durable is the soft paper straw material? Will it hold up to regular weekly use or is it more suited for occasional outings?, while a bag-care guide emphasizes choosing a bag with
trim that can take friction where your hand and shoulder hit it most
ericjavits.com. Specifically, the trim reinforces the handle attachments;
carrying it by the handles when the bag's heavily packed risks fast wear on those points
smart.dhgate.comso the trim distributes stress, reducing wear at these vulnerable junctions.
- Two-layer protection
Contrast trim and removable lining provide two-layer protection against wear.
Why this is supported
The bag's protective design pairs the exterior trim with its removable lining. The trim itself is selected to
take friction where your hand and shoulder hit it most
ericjavits.comwhile the lining, as one guide notes,
protects the straw inside from friction and spills
smart.dhgate.comTogether, they create a two-layer durability system that guards both the outside and inside of the bag.
Image Analysis
2 images- 01
Product
Front-facing rectangular woven straw tote with a dark brown braided body, contrasting lighter tan braided trim around the edges and handles, and two integrated top handles forming a rounded loop.
- Overall shapeRectangular upright tote with a flat base and slightly softened corners, shown facing front.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.14 · w 0.88 · h 0.74 (high) - Body textureDense horizontal rows of braided straw forming a ribbed knit-like texture across the entire front panel; braids are tightly woven and uniform.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.30 · w 0.84 · h 0.56 (high) - Handle constructionTwo integrated wide handles formed from the same braided material as the body with the lighter tan trim visible along the outer edges; handles extend from the top edge and form a rounded loop.
1 region
x 0.34 · y 0.02 · w 0.32 · h 0.40 (high) - Top openingRectangular top opening between the handles with the lighter tan trim lining the inner edge of the opening.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.18 · w 0.44 · h 0.10 (high) - Contrast trimLighter tan braided trim runs along the top edge, handle edges, and vertical side seams, creating a visible frame around the dark brown body.
3 regions
x 0.06 · y 0.14 · w 0.88 · h 0.04 (medium); x 0.06 · y 0.14 · w 0.04 · h 0.60 (medium); x 0.90 · y 0.14 · w 0.04 · h 0.60 (medium) - Base detailFlat base visible at bottom with slight shadow under the bag indicating a flat resting surface; base shows the same braided pattern continuing around the lower edge.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.78 · w 0.76 · h 0.08 (high)
Other
Studio product shot on a neutral light gray background with soft frontal lighting and a subtle shadow beneath the bag; image is centered and vertically framed to show the full front-facing bag.
- Background and lightingUniform light gray background with even, soft frontal lighting that minimizes harsh shadows.
- ShadowSoft diffuse shadow under the bag concentrated near the base on the right side, indicating studio lighting from above and slightly left.
1 region
x 0.46 · y 0.82 · w 0.28 · h 0.08 (medium) - CompositionBag is centered in frame and fully visible from front; image is cropped with small margin around the bag and no additional props.
Colors
dark brown· body#6B4D43tan· trim and handle edges- Overall shapeRectangular upright tote with a flat base and slightly softened corners, shown facing front.
- 02
Product
Boxy braided straw tote with a dark brown woven body, contrasting lighter tan braided trim along edges and top, and two long braided handles rising from the bag opening. The image shows a three-quarter side view emphasizing the front and left side panels and the textured horizontal braid.
- Overall shapeRectangular, boxy tote with a flat bottom and relatively straight vertical side panels; bag displays slight slouch where it rests on the surface.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.18 · w 0.72 · h 0.70 (high) - Body weaveDense horizontal rows of braided straw forming the bag body; braid rows run parallel to the base and create a textured ribbed surface.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.20 · w 0.66 · h 0.66 (high) - Contrast trimLight tan braided trim follows the bag edges and top opening, stitched visibly over the edge of the darker body braid creating a framed outline on the bag panels.
2 regions
x 0.08 · y 0.16 · w 0.07 · h 0.66 (high); x 0.28 · y 0.04 · w 0.44 · h 0.14 (high) - HandlesTwo long braided straps made from the same lighter tan material with visible interweaving, attached at the top opening and extending upward out of frame slightly; straps are flat and narrow relative to bag body.
2 regions
x 0.40 · y 0.02 · w 0.08 · h 0.46 (high); x 0.52 · y 0.02 · w 0.08 · h 0.46 (high) - Top opening detailOpen-top tote with visible inner edge of the braid around the opening; no visible closure or lining in the photographed area.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.04 · w 0.44 · h 0.12 (high) - Seam and corner constructionOuter vertical seams reinforced by the light tan trim; corners are squared with the trim wrapping the edge and showing thicker braided overlap at joins.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.16 · w 0.10 · h 0.44 (high)
Other
Studio-style product shot showing a three-quarter side view on a neutral light gray background with soft shadow beneath the bag; even diffuse lighting highlights weave texture.
- Shot compositionThree-quarter side view showing front and left side of the tote, cropped slightly at the top where straps extend upward.
- Background and surfaceSmooth light gray backdrop and pale surface with a soft shadow cast under the bag to the lower right.
- LightingSoft, even studio lighting that produces gentle highlights on braided texture and minimal specular glare.
Colors
dark brown· body#5A3D33light tan· edge trimmedium tan with brown accents· handles- Overall shapeRectangular, boxy tote with a flat bottom and relatively straight vertical side panels; bag displays slight slouch where it rests on the surface.