I had a spare hour with co-workers, and we headed to a vintage shop recommended by ... And just like that, I dropped a cool $130 on it. Wicker or straw bags have always been evocative of summer ...

Several bags get classified as classic – a structured black leather bag, a monogrammed canvas tote, a satin clutch for dressier moments. But what about the wicker purse, the best basket bag of them ...

Classic white wicker chairs and settees still dress the Southern porch, and vintage rockers and sofas ... Carry a wicker handbag. Kathy Huber has worked for the Houston Chronicle since May 1981.