Sunwoven Collection: Raffia vs Openweave for Summer Weddings
By Birdies | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Buying Guides
Not sure which Birdies Sunwoven style works best for a summer wedding? We compare raffia vs openweave—fit, formality, and comfort—so you can choose the perfect pair.
Quick Answer
For a summer wedding, choose openweave raffia if you want a more polished, ballet-chic look with a secure strap; choose classic raffia if you prefer an effortless slip-on with cloud-like cushioning for dancing all night.
Why the Weave Matters for Wedding Wear
Both raffia and openweave are handcrafted by artisans in Italy’s Tuscan Hills, but the weave density changes the look and feel. Openweave has a looser, airier construction that shows more skin—great for keeping cool during an outdoor ceremony. Classic raffia is tighter and more textural, giving a refined, almost neutral finish that pairs with dressier attire.
The trade-off: openweave’s larger gaps mean it’s slightly less formal for evening or black-tie weddings, while classic raffia works across more dress codes. Both are lined with soft mesh, so neither will rub uncomfortably.
Fit and Foot Security on the Dance Floor
If you plan to dance for hours, the strap style matters. The Hummingbird Mary Jane in openweave includes an elastic strap that keeps your foot secure—perfect for lively receptions. The Songbird is a slip-on without a strap, so it’s easier to slide on and off but may feel less locked in during fast moves.
Both styles feature Birdies’ signature 7 layers of cloud-like comfort, but the Mary Jane’s added security can be a deciding factor for weddings with a packed dance floor.
Your Summer Wedding Decision Guide
- Choose Openweave if…: You want a more structured shoe with a strap for security, especially for outdoor or daytime weddings. The looser weave keeps feet cooler in heat.
- Choose Classic Raffia if…: You prefer a slip-on that’s easy to remove during the reception and works with slightly dressier outfits. The tighter weave looks more polished for evening events.
- Consider the Venue and Dress Code: For beach or garden weddings, openweave’s breathability and strap are ideal. For ballroom or black-tie, classic raffia’s refined texture blends better with formal attire. Match the weave to the formality of your wedding invitation.
Product Facts at a Glance
- The Hummingbird Mary Jane - Sunflower Openweave: The Hummingbird Mary Jane in Sunflower Openweave features a breathable openweave raffia made by Tuscan artisans, lined with transparent refined mesh. The elastic strap and airy weave make it a secure, cool choice for outdoor ceremonies and receptions where you want to stay put and stay fresh.
The Hummingbird Mary Jane - Sunflower Openweave - The Songbird - Tan Raffia: The Songbird in Tan Raffia is handcrafted from textural raffia by Italian artisans and includes 7 layers of cloud-like comfort. Its slip-on design and plush cushioning let you move effortlessly from ceremony to dance floor without sacrificing comfort.
The Songbird - Tan Raffia
Which One Fits Your Wedding?
Best For
- Outdoor or daytime summer weddings where breathability and foot security matter
- Guests who plan to dance actively and want a shoe that stays put
Not Ideal For
- Evening or black-tie weddings where a slip-on with a more formal texture is preferred
