There’s a debate going on and at the centre is Walmart’s ‘Wirkin’ bag. The bag went viral on social media in December 2024 when comparisons were drawn between the bag and the Hermès Birkin bag. Due to so much online exposure, the bag then went on to sell out and has not come back in stock.
The release of the Walmart bag has sparked much controversy in fashion spaces.
What Is The Walmart ‘Wirkin’?
Walmart has sparked a real debate online about one of their bags, which has been dubbed by the internet as a ‘Walmart Birkin Bag’ or ‘Wirkin’. This is due to its similar look to the iconic Hermès Birkin. The bag has created a real debate over dupe culture.
The ‘Wirkin’ is priced between $60 and $299.98 in comparison to the Hermès Birkin which typically retails at about $10,000 and upwards.
What Is The Birkin Bag?
The Birkin bag, crafted by luxury brand Hermès, was introduced in 1984 and is named after British actress, model, and singer Jane Birkin. This handcrafted bag is renowned for its exquisite materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and exclusivity. Each Birkin is made by a single artisan and can take upwards of 40 hours to complete.
Is The ‘Wirkin’ A Counterfeit Item?
No, it is not a counterfeit item. Whether the bag was designed to look like a Birkin or not is up to interpretation. The similarities are apparent but the bag is not branded to deceive customers into believing they are buying a Birkin bag.
There are no fake Hermès stamps on the bag and the bag is not named to trick buyers either. However, the Walmart bag does seem to be heavily inspired by the Hermès Birkin, which opens up the question of ethics when it comes to dupes.
Where is the line drawn in the discussion of inspiration versus copying?
Birkin vs. Wirkin: Key Differences
1. Price Point
Birkin: Represents high-end luxury with a price tag to match.
Wirkin: Affordable and budget-friendly.
2. Materials & Craftsmanship
Birkin: Uses premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
Wirkin: Mass-produced & fast fashion.
3. Exclusivity
Birkin: Difficult to acquire due to limited production and high demand.
Wirkin: Affordable and able to be purchased online.
Is The ‘Wirkin’ A Threat To Birkin Sales?
Not at all. While the Birkin and ‘Wirkin’ may on the surface share visual similarities, they cater to entirely different audiences. The Birkin appeals to collectors and connoisseurs of luxury, while the ‘Wirkin’ appeals to those who like the look of the Hermès structured bag.
One of the main draws of the Birkin bag is how exclusive they are and their value. The Walmart bag is (or at least was before going viral!) readily available for purchase online.
Should I Buy A 'Wirkin' Bag?
If you really want a 'Wirkin' and can source one for retail price or less, then it might be a good purchase for you. If you are not interested in buying a Birkin bag but you like a structured bag, it may be worth considering.
However, if it's a structured or luxury-looking bag that you are after, consider finding an alternative on the resale market. This way, you can access real luxury for less.
Realistically a bag from Walmart is unlikely to retain or gain value, unlike designer bags which can be great investment pieces.
Where To Buy A Birkin Bag?
If you are interested in buying the real deal, the easiest and more sure way to buy an Hermès Birkin is on the resale market.
At myGemma, we have a large collection of designer bags at different price points, including the elusive Birkin bag. Each and every item on the website has been authenticated by our in-house team before reaching the website and the app. Authenticity is guaranteed or your money back.
Buying a Birkin firsthand from an Hermès store is notoriously difficult, lengthy, and often times unsuccessful. It is never a guarantee that you will be offered the exact Birkin that you are looking for. When you choose to buy myGemma you can take your pick from different sizes, colors, leathers, and more.
Check out myGemma's Trustpilot reviews to see what our customers have to say.
How To Sell A Birkin Bag Online?
If you’re looking to part ways with a Birkin, myGemma makes the process simple and seamless. Here’s how:
- Fill out an online form with your bag’s details.
- Receive a competitive quote from myGemma's in-house team.
- Send your bag in for final authentication and receive payment in as little as 24 hours.
It is the quick and easy way to sell your Birkin bag online. There is no middleman involved and there are no hidden fees.
