Shopping can be pretty difficult at times, would you agree?
With the ample choices out there, there’s always a store which can suit our budget and needs. Whether you’re someone who just loves the basics or you’re that one person who wants to be the main runway star.
But if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it's that everyone would always like to own a fashion piece from our favourite and fashionable celebrities. From limited edition collector's items to even everyday items. One example of a fashion icon is BLACKPINK’s Jennie who’s well known for her killer fashion looks.
If you’re one to follow her, you may have noticed that she’s always rocking a particular oversized COS Quilted bag. Unlike most bags, it’s pretty much suitable for everyday use from going out about around town or perhaps to university to carry your necessities.
Recently, a video went viral on TikTok as a crowd of Malaysians flocked to the COS outlet in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur after fans found out about the availability of the bag in stores.
TikTok user @fishmeatdie posted the video of the queue at the outlet over the weekend and it looked like many were looking forward to getting their hands on the bag. It was noted that due to the limited stock of the bags, customers were limited to purchasing two bags per person.
Is It Expensive?
Now, before you jump to conclusions, just cause Jennie owns the bag doesn’t mean that its price is over the top. In fact, the bag is pretty affordable and it won’t exactly burn a hole in your wallet. Here’s the price:
Oversized – RM360
Small – RM240
Mini – RM160
Quilted bags have been in trend for quite a while now. Despite the bag being out over the past 2 years, it only recently rose in popularity after Jennie was spotted with the bag. This was dubbed as “The Jennie Effect” by fans as her influence on brands had caused many items to go sold out thanks to her.
"Jennie has even birthed the term "Jennie effect", which refers to when a product sells out within minutes once it's worn or used by the star"
— Jennie's World (@world_jennie) January 18, 2021
Mentioned Lotte Air Baked and Hera's Black Foundation#BLACKPINK #JENNIE @BLACKPINK https://t.co/T48yMsE02F pic.twitter.com/fqrtzsDImo
Checking COS’ website, the bag is currently low in stock and will cost 99USD (~RM435.10) and unfortunately, you don’t have a choice of sizes available. Looking at the description, it looks like you only have the oversize bag as the only available option.
Netizens Debate If The Bag Is Worth It
Looking at the comments section, netizens had debated if the bag was worth the hype as “The Jennie Effect” is real. In fact, some netizens are still excited that the bag is available.
One thing to keep in mind is that this time around since the bag is available, you’ll likely be carrying a handbag that the rest of Kuala Lumpur has, so you won’t really be standing out from the crowd too much.
Here’s some of the comments:
Perhaps you’re not digging the bag? Don’t worry as here’s some alternatives!
Mark & Spenser (RM179.90)
If you’re looking for something water-resistant and something that would stand out from the crowd thanks to its colour, you can get yourself a quilted tote bag here.
Many commented that the bag is soft and light. Plus, it comes with two large pockets which makes it easier to arrange your stuff accordingly.
H&M (RM74.95)
For those who worry about the price, H&M has got you covered if you’re looking for a more affordable alternative. Plus, you won’t need to rush from store to store and wait in long queues to get your hands on one. You can purchase it online here or just walk into a nearby H&M outlet and you’ll likely find one.
Shein (RM24 - RM46)
Fast fashion brand Shein also has a version of this bag at two different price points. Among the bags out there, it’s the closest looking one to Jennie’s COS bag but it has slightly bigger quilted patches on it.
The cheaper RM24 bag comes in three colours; Black, White and Off White and the slightly more expensive RM41 – RM46 bag comes in five colours; Beige, Black, Khaki, Dark Grey and Coffee Brown.
You can purchase the bags here and here.
Shopee (RM26.80)
Too busy or perhaps lazy to go out to purchase a bag? Shopee has got you covered as there are a variety of vendors selling the bag on the platform.
Most of them are available in two colours – white and black - and some vendors may offer different sizes. You can purchase it here.
**Do note that the prices stated above were accurate at the time the article was written and could differ depending on when you’re reading this.
So, will you fall for ‘the Jennie Effect’? Let us know your thoughts on the bag and if you think its worth getting in the comments section!
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, TikTok & various cross-references for context.
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