And This Is What an A-List Stylist Buys in Bulk at IKEA
From some of Rihanna's and Kim Kardashian West's most iconic outfits to cementing London's best dressed It-girl scene, super stylist and creative director Avigail Collins is known in fashion circles for being the go-to when you're a celebrity looking to craft an exciting new look. She's the mastermind behind ingenious ensembles for Lorde and is the force behind some of Daisy Lowe's sassiest getups, but Avigail's wardrobing skills extend even further: See her own streetwear-inspired line, Silver Spoon Attire, for starters. Founded in 2013, alongside her husband (and fellow sought-after stylist) Damian Collins, her high-profile music clients—and a global street style following—make up a pretty impressive fan club. If anyone can spot the next big thing, it's Avigail. Which is why we're thrilled to have her on board at Who What Wear UK to bring you a monthly column about what's hot now.
I first discovered IKEA's baskets when I was in the store looking for things for my son's room. I just bought one at first, but then I love them so much that I went back and got five more. I have them scattered around my house—he loves taking toys out of the baskets—but then I found myself using them in real life as a bag. People are always asking me where I got them, and it's a satisfying answer when so many of today's basket bags are overpriced—this one's only £9.
Avigail carrying her IKEA basket bag—it goes everywhere with her, from the city to the beach.
It goes with everything in my wardrobe, and it makes everything look chicer. I'm very into Italy and how they dress over there—this basket bag completes that Italian Riviera look, and it's nice to have something when you're running around the city that reminds you of holiday.
I'm convinced that basket bags are basically like the new tote bags (totes are so meh these days), but there are even more ways to get some wear out of one via customisation. I would strongly advise against spending a lot of money on this handbag trend (anything over £30 is crazy), and instead, invest a few extra quid, and pick up some unique craft bits that will make your £9 IKEA version look more special. Keep reading to see how I DIY'd my basket bag in 60 seconds.
IKEA's Basket Bags
Basket-Bag Styling Hacks
I bought some gingham offcuts from a fabric store on Berwick Street in London for £2. There are usually "bins" of excess strips of fabric that you can pick up for a bargain, so you can update the idea to go with what's trending right now—like gingham. I like frayed edges, so I don't feel the need to sew these neatly into ribbons before tying them on—the fraying adds a little character, and bows are on everything right now.
You can also wrap the strips of fabric around the handle, and for extra brownie points, I'd suggest wearing a matching choker or a ribbon tied in your hair on a hot day.
What's in your basket bag is just as important—a very French-girl thing to consider. Keep some spare fabric to tie up little bundles—I recently went lavender picking in a place called Hitchin, and I couldn't recommend it more.
Next up, the A/W 17 fashion trends you need to know.
Who is your style icon?
Elizabeth Taylor Who are your 3 favorite people to follow on Instagram?
@decorhardcore, @lukeedwardhall, @carlota_guerrero
What is the fashion essential you can’t live without?
High waisted jeans or trousers.
What would be your desert island album?
Baduizm by Erykah Badu.
Follow Avigail on Instagram @avigail.collins and shop from her brilliant brand Silver Spoon Attire.
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