Chloe Small Marcie Flap Basket Bag Review: A Pretty Summer Bag, But Is It Practical?
If you’re eyeing up the Chloe Small Marcie Flap Basket Bag for summer, you’re not alone. Basket bags are everywhere right now and Chloe’s take on the trend feels like a perfect blend of bohemian chic and luxury polish.
But is it actually worth it? I bought mine preloved from Vestiaire Collective for £279, with a cheeky 10% discount. Here’s my honest, wear-tested review — with a little help from Loewe for comparison.
Viva la France (Dress from Zara you will find it for like £25 on Vinted)
First Impressions: Chloe Basket Bag Aesthetic
Let’s not deny it, this bag is very cute.
That signature Chloe Marcie flap in beautiful tan leather? Timeless.
A cross-body strap that sits perfectly on the hip? Surprisingly rare.
A size that’s not too mini, not too big? Chef’s kiss.
If you’re a fan of the Chloe aesthetic: boho details, a laid-back but luxe vibe, this one ticks every visual box and it is subtle, it does not feature the big shouty logo so many bags do.
Functionality: Where It Falls Short
Here’s where we get honest.
Despite the charm, the functionality just isn’t there.
No interior pocket - not even a slip for a cardholder.
A lot of open top with no closure, which is risky for such a shallow and wide shaped bag.
The body doesn’t lie flat against you (like the Loewe slit Raffia) instead, it juts out awkwardly when worn cross-body.
I ended up putting a drawstring dust bag inside just to feel comfortable walking around with it. Not ideal.
Wearability: The Weight Ratio Problem
My biggest frustration? The weight ratio is completely off. The leather flap closure is too heavy for the bag when open.
At the end of a long day, when you go to lift the bag off your shoulder, where the strap is attached to the weave…it flips and twists over. Every time. If you haven’t secured the flap or cinched your internal pouch tightly, your contents are heading straight for the pavement.
It’s not a dealbreaker if you’re aware but it’s an annoying quirk of this bag I wanted you to be aware of.
This is me taking the bag off my shoulder. (see the issue)
The leather flap closure is too heavy for the bag.
Loewe vs Chloe: Raffia Bag Design That Works
Now let’s talk Loewe as an alternative because they’re the gold standard for raffia bags that work.
The Loewe Palm Tote may also lack interior pockets, but it’s deep, balanced, and nothing falls out.
The Small Loewe Basket worn cross-body includes a drawstring pouch, specifically to solve this problem. But, it does still jut out at the hip.
The Loewe Raffia Pochette comes with a secure zip, and the proportions hug the body in all the right ways.
Chloe’s design looks beautiful but Loewe functions beautifully too. And when you’re spending hundreds, that matters. But, Loewe is considerably more expensive on preloved by an addition £250. SO…..pick your battles.
Price & Preloved Value
I picked up my Chloe for £279 on Vestiaire Collective, and I’ve seen them listed on eBay for around £291. It’s definitely a better deal than retail (obviously) and if you like it - you’ll find one. I dont think you can buy this style anymore RIP.
