I’m a Style Editor, and This Is My New Favorite (and Unexpected!) Place to Shop for Pretty, Affordable Decor

published Mar 20, 2023
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Over the past few years of designing my space, I’ve gravitated toward lighter, natural-looking materials, like cane and rattan. Essentially, I’m a sucker for anything woven, and there’s one particular decor item that relentlessly undermines my shopping willpower: baskets. Whether it’s a tall, lidded basket, funky thrift store basket, or low-slung flower basket, I will not hesitate to buy it if I see it.

Each basket within my (constantly growing) collection — dispersed throughout my bedroom, living room, and kitchen — doubles down on both storage and styling opportunities, without dominating much space. They also instantly introduce a homey, cozy touch to my apartment, making it feel more English country home than New York City rental. In fact, that’s why I especially loved the rise of the cottagecore interior trend, because it heavily popularized baskets as decor across the board (and further validated my fixation).

Because you can obviously never have too many woven accents, my basket-buying habits have shown no signs of stopping — and Instagram’s algorithm has recently caught on. Last week, I got a targeted ad for the most beautiful willow container. Once I clicked on it, though, I was surprised to land on the Michaels website. I’d never thought of the craft supply store as a home decor hub, but a quick online browse through their spring landing page proved me wrong. I found a variety of functional baskets galore, plus cottagecore-inspired wall art, shelving, and more — all currently on sale. Michaels actually had so many hidden gems that I rounded up six stylish, under-$20 favorites below, perfect for upping your own home’s contemporary cottage charm or as a low-cost decor refresh.

1 / 6
Michaels
$19.99
was $39.99

The basket that started it all... While technically a tote (that feels perfect for a spring picnic!), this spacious woven accent has pretty blanket or book storage written all over it.

2 / 6
Michaels
$9.99
was $19.99

If you have the kitchen or bathroom counter space to spare, use this 8-inch little tray to put spices or perfumes on a pedestal. It would work well as a mini plant stand or jewelry organizer, too.

3 / 6
Michaels
$9.99
was $19.99

What’s better than a decorative basket? A wall-hanging decorative basket. Although probably not designed to hold much weight, this willow accent pairs nicely with a lightweight plant (faux or real). Or, don’t have an entryway? Fill this with winter scarves and gloves to keep near your front door.

4 / 6
Michaels
$14.99
was $29.99

Arguably one of my favorite Michaels finds, this cream-colored shelf delivers the scallop trend in style (and on a budget!), with a delicate border running along the bottom. Choose from this 23.6-inch-wide version or a smaller 20-inch design for $12.49.

5 / 6
Michaels
$7.49
was $14.99

There’s no shortage of styling options for this versatile, low-profile basket — trinket dish, electronics storage, or a good old cloth-napkin-lined bread basket during dinnertime, just to name a few.

6 / 6
Michaels
$9.99
was $19.99

This wall art — depicting what resembles pressed flowers inside a book — feels straight out of a countryside cottage. Note that styles vary, and the $9.99 price only applies to a single print.