Hold on to your FRAKTA blue bags. It’s high fashion.

I did a double take when I saw this on my news feed. Balenciaga, the French luxury brand has just released a new bag that looks almost identical to IKEA’s iconic blue carry-all. The color, size and handles are almost the same. The difference? The material — it’s made from wrinkled, glazed leather, it’s lined, it has a zipper and of course, major difference — the price tag. $2,145 at Barney’s. That’s a lot of FRAKTAs. I’m guessing Balenciaga is just trying to have some IKEA hacking fun.

balenciaga-vs-ikea-frakta-blue-bags

 

balenciaga-blue-bag

Does lugging the IKEA FRAKTA feel more chic now?

It’s not the first time the French brand has taken inspiration from odd places. A year ago, they released this colourful shopping bag, reminiscent of grocery bags commonly found in many parts of Asia.

balenciaga market bag

 

And earlier this year, the blanket bag. Really, Balenciaga?

Balenciaga's blanket tote

Photo: www.barneys.com

That aside, IKEA in collaboration with Hay, is giving the blue bag a makeover.

IKEA blue bags madeover by HAY IKEA HAY blue bag

 

Photo: www.mnn.com

It’s definitely more subtle, with the deep shade of green and the omission of the IKEA logo from the straps. But I still kinda prefer the old one, I like to carry it loud and proud. What do you think? Do you like the new “blue” bag?