So, I was browsing Farfetch the other day (as one does, lol), and I saw a pre-owned Birkin in, like, this electric blue color. Gorgeous. But the price tag? Ouch. Made my bank account cry a little. But then, it got me thinking… what *is* it with these bags?
It’s not just the name, is it? I mean, sure, Hermès. Fancy. But it’s more than that, right? You see those articles, like, “Hermès Introduces 6 New Handbags,” and you’re just like, “Yeah, yeah, another Birkin-adjacent thing.” But then you read about how each one is hand-sewn. Hand-sewn! By artisans who’ve dedicated *years* to the craft. Like, that’s dedication, man. I can barely dedicate five minutes to flossing.
And then there’s the whole backstory. Apparently, it all started in 1984? (I think? Correct me if I’m wrong – hey, I’m not an encyclopedia, okay?). Jane Birkin was on a plane, and her straw bag spilled, and the Hermès CEO was, like, “I can fix this.” And boom. Birkin. Iconic. A story almost *too* perfect, tbh. Like a fairytale.
Okay, so, personal opinion time: I kinda prefer the Sellier Birkins. The structured ones. They just look… sharper, y’know? More “I have my life together,” even if I’m wearing sweatpants underneath. The slouchy ones are nice too, though. Like a comfy hug for your arm.
But honestly, the whole buying process? It’s kinda insane. Waiting lists, building relationships with SAs (sales associates – gotta learn the lingo!), hoping you’re “worthy” enough to even be offered one. It’s like joining some super-exclusive club where the membership fee is, like, a small mortgage payment.
And all those authentication services? “Handpicked and carefully evaluated.” Geez. Makes you wonder how many fakes are floating around out there. Scary stuff.
So, yeah, Birkins. Are they worth it? I dunno. Maybe. Depends on your definition of “worth.” For some, it’s an investment. For others, it’s a status symbol. For me? It’s a beautiful, elusive object that I’ll probably admire from afar (and occasionally drool over on Farfetch). Maybe someday… But for now, I’m sticking with my trusty tote bag. It holds just as much stuff, and I can actually *afford* to replace it if I spill coffee on it.
