Following the wild popularity of “25 clever Ikea products that look more expensive than they are,” it’s abundantly clear that you, like me, have a keen eye for genuinely good things that don’t cost the earth. So, in the interests of public service, every Friday I’ll be sharing five of my favourite finds from around the world, all under AU$50 (which is about £24). Prepare your wishlists accordingly.
(British readers: If you’re looking for clever ways to squeeze every last drop of joy from the British summer, you’ll find my tips – and buys – nestled among those of other experts in yesterday’s feature in the Guardian. It’s a lovely round-up of ideas by Emma Beddington for making the season feel like a never-ending holiday – indoors and out.)
1. Habitat hand-painted striped jug
This hand-painted striped jug from Habitat’s National Trust collection is pure country-core meets modern classic: think vibrant, painterly stripes and a pleasingly sturdy stoneware shape. Each jug is individually hand-painted, so no two are exactly alike. I love that it works just as beautifully filled with lemonade as it does with a big, blowsy bunch of garden flowers.
2. Broadway Market folding book
This ingenious eight-panel folding book, illustrated by Natsko Seki, opens out into a bustling market square, with shops on the outside, market stalls inside, and a charming collection of die-cut shoppers and objects to play with. I spent many a Saturday at Broadway Market when I lived in London, so this one is especially close to my heart: it’s a joyful celebration of the diversity, energy, and individuality of London’s markets. The book is beautifully printed in England on sustainable paper with vegetable inks and, clearly, a lot of love. Perfect for young and old alike, it’s both an interactive game and a piece of glorious artwork to treasure.
3. Target pinstriped comforter
If you’re a careful shopper, you can find some genuinely good buys at Target – like this comforter set in a classic pinstripe, which is not only a great price but also has a cotton outer layer. The fabric is soft and washes beautifully, proving you don’t have to compromise on materials or style for a bedroom refresh.
4. Merci striped bag
This striped bag from Merci – my favourite shop in Paris – is the sort of everyday essential that manages to be both practical and quietly stylish. Lightweight, roomy, and available in the most cheerful colour combinations, it’s perfect for everything from market trips to weekends away (or just pretending you’re on the wandering around the Marais).
5. Egg cup set
If you’re new to In the Roundhouse, it’s an Australian brand making playful, mix-and-match tableware with a contemporary twist. Their Italian egg cup set is bright, well-made, and just the thing to make even the simplest breakfast feel a little more considered – practical, cheerful, and quietly elevating your morning routine. You can check out the whole Italian collection here.
Please note that this is not an ad or commercial affiliate products and I don’t get paid in any way.
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I love a big fluffy comforter, it just needs a breakfast tray and a good book on a lazy Sunday morning!
Love these! The folding book is stunning.