You Can Still Own a Birkin Bag-Here's How

Symbolizing wealth and status from Hollywood to the FROW, the Birkin bag has become the most recognizable bag in the world. Handcrafted in a six-phase process over 20 hours, the shape and hardware of this bag are easily recognised. Although it is one of the most expensive bags on the market, the Hermès Birkin is one of the most difficult to acquire because of the high demand for it. Vestiaire Collective reported in 2020 that the Birkin was among the most sought-after bags and that sales increased 185% that year. Luxury goods can be worthwhile investments, as this pair’s value has increased by more than 4% in just two years. In spite of its enduring popularity, what exactly makes this piece of arm candy so great? You can read on to learn why the Birkin bag has become such an expensive item.

ATTRACTIONS ON AN A-LIST

The Kardashian squad often carries Birkins on their gym runs and airport outings, and they’re no strangers to carrying the bag. We can (kind of) relate to Kris Jenner’s “Need money for Birkins” neon sign in her room dedicated to her Birkins. The Kardashian West family even let North customize one of Kim’s in the most expensive arts-and-crafts session ever.

Alessandra Ambrosio and Ashley Olsen are also celebrities who carry Birkins in the crook of their arms. There is, however, one person who seems to love arm candy more than Victoria Beckham. Her collection of Birkin bags is estimated to number more than 120. However, she wears her own designs more often now.

The Birkin bag has a cult following among A-listers, but what makes it so special? Obviously, exclusivity is a must. Flashy pieces for those who love the spotlight are difficult to obtain and easily identifiable.

INVESTMENT WORTH IT

The resale market for luxury products has boomed in recent years, and companies like Vestiaire Collective and Xupes claim that the Hermès Birkin bag retains 130% of its retail value. Why would this be the case? Lack of availability. A Hermès shop assistant doesn’t just pull the red ropes and present you with a selection of Birkin bags just because you walk in, as it’s commonly known. Co-founder Fanny Moizant summarizes Vestiaire’s philosophy: “Anything that is hard to obtain is highly coveted, and there is a mystery surrounding the bags, which makes them even more desirable.”

A Hermès Birkin bag sold for £162,500 at Christie’s London’s handbag auction on 12 June 2019. A 16-karat white gold and diamond Birkin 35 with Matte Himalaya Niloticus Crocodile hardware sold for a staggering £236,750 in 2018, breaking this record. A six-figure handbag is unimaginable, but when would a person wear it? There is no way they can take annual leave when their personal security team is away.

There seems to be no end to the rise of Birkins’ value. Baghunter reported that Birkins’ resale value rose by 16 percent between June 2016 and 2017. In the meantime, Baghunter has published another report. This led to a “mini Hermès drought” in the resale market due to a growing gap between demand and supply of Birkin handbags. Evelyn Fox, co-founder of Baghunter, said the Birkin’s value will spike soon because Hermès has not increased production.

We aren’t experts on investing, but the Birkin seems safe. Is this a question of stock market or bag connoisseurship? Those bags are fine with us, thanks.

INTERESTED IN INVESTING? SHOP SOME OF OUR FAVORITE BIRKINS BELOW