How to Repurpose Your Bright, Blue Ikea Bag

Last month, Balenciaga debuted their Arena bag, made with leather, that ran for $2,145. This obscenely high pricepoint isn't exactly an anomaly for Balenciaga, but the bag bore a suspicious resemblance to IKEA’s Frakta bag that's a similar hue of blazing, Brandeis blue with mustard lettering.

IKEA responded in stride, simply replying that it was flattered by the pricey imitation of this iconic tote. But it followed this up with an ad that clarified how to identify an original Frakta by its defining characteristics: It rustles when handled; it cleans easily if rolled in dirt; it is merely 99 cents.

In other words, it’s much cheaper to pay homage to this design than Balenciaga’s riff. Lately, a good number of designers have taken to Instagram to showcase DIY creations that use the Frakta. IKEA itself has even joined in on the fun, encouraging others to share their creations.

Even IKEA's Iconic Blue Tote Has Given Into the All-Neutral Trend

Read Article

A Frakta bag can satisfy many aims, as I've recently learned through scrolling through Instagram: It can be a smock, a life vest, a snapback, a pair of high tops, a topknot-taming hair tie. If you’ve got a Frakta of your own that you’ve been itching to give renewed purpose, consider this your mood board.

Frakta, I love you.

Glance at the world's many different Frakta-based creations here. What do you do with your IKEA bags? Let us know in the comments.