If there was a fashion food chain, the Hermès Birkin would be right at the very top. It is a name synonymous with status and has been carried by some of the most famous names in Hollywood and beyond.
As it is famously not easy to buy a Birkin, let’s break down what that actually means. If you are in the market to buy one, or simply want to understand the Birkin situation more, keep reading.
What Is A Birkin?
The Birkin is arguably the most significant bag in bag history. From the Birkin’s inception to its place in popular culture, it is never far from the limelight.
It was a chance meeting between past Creative Director at Hermès, Jean-Louis Dumas, and actress Jane Birkin that sparked the bag’s creation. The pair were seated by each other on a flight and Birkin had mentioned that she could not find a bag to suit her needs. This conversation resulted in the Birkin bag being designed and released in 1984.
The Birkin didn’t see huge success until the 1990s and the luxury fashion landscape hasn’t looked back since.
The structured bag is crafted by hand by one artisan. It features two top handles, a clochette & lock, a touret lock, and metal feet.
Buying An Hermès Birkin Bag
As per the infamous Sex & The City episode where Samantha goes to buy a Birkin, it is not as simple as that. Here is how to buy a Birkin bag.
Can Anyone Buy A Birkin In An Hermès Store?
There is no straightforward answer to this. Hermès has been in the center of a bit of a storm recently, as they have been faced with a lawsuit for antitrust. The lawsuit claims that the company only allows customers with ‘sufficient purchase history’ to buy a Birkin.
This means that, in order to get the chance to buy a Birkin, customers would need to have previously purchased a number of leather goods or other items from the company. So, if you are extremely patient, perhaps you could buy a Birkin bag from an Hermès boutique.
Hermès is renowned for being selective as to who can buy a Birkin, this is sometimes known as the ‘Birkin Game’.
How Long Is The Waitlist For Buying A Birkin?
It is difficult to say. If you are to be offered a Birkin directly from one of Hermès’s boutiques, it could take months or even years. If you want to buy a Birkin on a stricter timeline, the resale market is likely your only option.
Where To Buy A Birkin Bag Online?
You cannot buy Birkin bags on the Hermès website. If you would like to buy a Birkin online, it is important to make sure you buy from a reseller with a strict authentication process. Otherwise, you could end up paying thousands of dollars for an inauthentic item.
If the price seems too good to be true, it is probably because it is. Due to the scarcity of the Birkin bag, the high retail price tag, and due to demand, they never come cheap.
If you would like to purchase a Birkin bag, or at least see what the options are at resale, myGemma has a wide range available. Each and every bag that goes onto the website and app has been expertly authenticated in-house. We guarantee authenticity, or your money back.
myGemma also sells a big selection of accessories from many other designer brands, including Cartier jewelry, Chanel bags and accessories, and Rolex watches. If you would like to visit myGemma in-person, there is a showroom in NYC with appointments available.
When you buy from myGemma, you get access to limited edition or rare styles that are not available in stores. It is also the best way to shop luxury, as it helps to reduce your carbon footprint by giving a pre-loved item a new lease on life.
Check out myGemma's online reviews to see what our customers have to say about us.
Are Birkins Worth It?
Yes! Hermès Birkins are one of the few bags with a price that appreciates over time. The primary reasons for the Birkin’s price is due to scarcity, quality, and demand. Birkins are a great investment choice, if you do think you might eventually sell it on.
If you don’t think you will ever sell your Birkin bag, it is an incredible heirloom to pass onto future generations.
Which Birkin Bag To Buy?
There many different options when it comes to the Birkin bag. Check out this Birkin Size Guide to find the right choice for you.
There are also a number of different types of leather (including exotic skin bags) and different colorways available. If you like to play it safe and classic, then the neutral tones will likely suit your needs best. However, Hermès offers some playful twists on the bag with vibrant hues to choose from.
What Sizes Do The Birkin Come In?
- Birkin 25
- Birkin 30
- Birkin 35
- Birkin 40
- Birkin 42
- Birkin 45
- Birkin 50
How To Look After A Birkin Bag?
Although there has been a rising trend for worn-in looking Birkin bags, for the sake of maintaining the bag's value, it is better to look after your designer bags. Also, as this is a trend, it likely to disappear as quickly as it came into favor.
In order to keep your Birkin bag pristine, it is advised to keep the bag well stored. If you would like tips for storing your Birkin bag, this bag storage guide could be of help.
Overall, make sure to keep your Birkin bag looking as good as possible, keep it away from anything could stain it (such as oils and dyes) and keep it stored in a cupboard away from harsh light, such as a window. It is also a good idea to keep your bag stuffed in order to preserve its shape.
How To Sell A Birkin Bag?
If you are looking to sell your designer accessories, myGemma offers the full resale experience. Whether it is a Birkin or a Kelly you are looking to sell, get the right price for your designer bags by selling to myGemma.
The selling process is designed to be as quick, transparent and seamless as possible. There is no middleman involved and no hidden fees, so the price you are offered is the amount you get.
To get started, fill out the online form and a member of myGemma’s team will be in touch with an offer.
