Zhang Jingyi’s Red Carpet “Plastic Bag” Was a Movie Prop
Chinese actress Zhang Jingyi sparked a viral sensation after appearing on the red carpet of the 2025 Beijing International Film Festival carrying a simple yellow plastic bag. Initial speculation suggested the bag might be a high-fashion item from Balenciaga, with some claiming a price tag of around US$1,790 (approximately 2.68 million won). However, the accessory was not a designer item but a prop used to promote her film, The One.
The Viral Misunderstanding
Photos of Zhang Jingyi with the plastic bag quickly circulated on social media, prompting comparisons to Balenciaga’s “Trash Pouch,” a calfskin leather bag inspired by trash bags that retails for US$1,790. As reported by CNA, the resemblance led many to believe Zhang Jingyi was carrying a similar luxury item. Jing Daily noted the incident highlighted Balenciaga’s strong cultural influence in China’s fashion landscape.
A Promotional Tie-In
The actress clarified that the plastic bag was a deliberate choice connected to her role in The One. According to CNA, the bag served as a communication tool between her character and her hearing-impaired parents in the film. During the event, when questioned about the bag, Zhang Jingyi hinted at its significance, stating, “This plastic bag is a secret hidden in the movie,” and encouraging viewers to discover its meaning by watching the film.
Balenciaga’s “Trash Bag” Design
Balenciaga previously released a “Trash Pouch” as part of its 2022 Fall/Winter collection, as reported by The Telegraph India. Despite its unconventional design, the bag, crafted from calfskin leather, sold for US$1,790 and quickly sold out on the official website. Demna Gvasalia, Balenciaga’s creative director at the time, reportedly stated, “You can’t miss the opportunity to make the world’s most expensive trash bag.”
Key Takeaways
- Zhang Jingyi carried a plastic bag on the red carpet as a promotional item for her film, The One.
- Initial reports incorrectly attributed the bag to Balenciaga, sparking a viral debate.
- Balenciaga has previously released a similar-looking bag, the “Trash Pouch,” made from calfskin leather and priced at US$1,790.
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