Kwon Yuri's sunglasses sell out after being mistaken for luxury goods

Kwon Yuri, a member of Girls' Generation and an actress, is drawing attention due to the unexpected price of the sunglasses she wore on the MBC variety show 'I Live Alone'. Due to their sophisticated design, the item was presumed to be a high-end luxury brand, but as it was revealed to be a product from a household goods brand sold for just 2,000 won, online reactions have labeled it a prime example of so-called 'cost-effective fashion.'

In a recent episode of 'I Live Alone,' Kwon revealed her daily life traveling by motorcycle. During the broadcast, she paired casual styling with black cat-eye sunglasses, creating an urban and sophisticated look. The unique frame that accentuated her facial lines and the restrained design enhanced the overall completeness of her styling, capturing viewers' attention.

Immediately after the broadcast, inquiries asking "Which brand is it?" flooded online communities and SNS, with many speculating the eyewear was a luxury brand product.

In response, Kwon addressed fans' curiosity by directly introducing various items she wore on the show—including her clothing, shoes, bags, and even a blender—via her SNS. In particular, once it was revealed that the sunglasses were a 2,000 won product sold by a domestic household goods brand, reactions poured in expressing shock at the unexpected price.

In the retail industry, the 'Celebrity Effect,' where fashion items featured on broadcasts lead to consumer purchases, is analyzed as a significant marketing phenomenon. Cases are repeatedly occurring where products worn by celebrities see a surge in sales within a short period if their design and utility receive attention, regardless of brand recognition.

In the fashion industry, this is known as 'High-Low Mix' styling. This method of naturally combining expensive luxury items with reasonably priced products has established itself as a key styling strategy in recent global fashion trends. As a consumer culture that values individuality and utility over price spreads, the perception that practical products can be just as fashionable is widening.

Cultural sociologist Pierre Bourdieu explained consumption not merely as an economic activity, but as an act that reveals taste and cultural capital. Recently, as value-based consumption—which emphasizes personal style and practicality over conspicuous consumption—spreads, analysts suggest that sensuously utilizing reasonably priced products is becoming established as a new fashion culture.

Kwon naturally demonstrated this trend during the broadcast. Rather than relying on expensive luxury goods, she presented high-quality styling by selecting items that suited her individuality and vibe, earning praise for proving that 'fashion is about harmony and expression rather than price.'

Kwon continues to maintain a steady presence in variety shows alongside her activities as a singer and actress. Recently, she has been actively promoting and receiving fan support by forming the unit group 'Hyoryusu' with Girls' Generation members Hyoyeon and Choi Soo-young. Based on their long-standing teamwork and charm, the group is once again demonstrating the power of a 'legendary girl group' through new music and variety content.