Hermès Birkin bag: Why these coveted bags are so exclusive
Hermès Birkin bags have undoubtedly garnered significant attention in the media, given their position in the luxury fashion market. It is hard to miss this coveted handmade bag collection, as you might have spotted it being flaunted by celebrities or featured among the list of premium bag brands globally. This alluring collection of bags was inspired by Jane Birkin who passed away recently.
How Jane Birkin served as the inspiration
The origin of the Birkin bag dates back to 1983 when the late actor and singer Jane Birkin was flying from Paris to London. Seated next to the then Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas, she told Dumas that she wanted a leather bag "half the size" of her suitcase. A year later Dumas presented Birkin with the bag that was also named after her.
Artisanal Mastery: Each bag takes 18-20 hours to complete
Since its debut in 1984, the Birkin has undergone numerous iterations with the aid of leathers, exotic skins, and limited production runs. Reportedly, the bags are made from top-class leather. A 2015 Bloomberg report claims that each bag is made by a single craftsperson and takes 18 to 20 hours to complete. However, the exact number of bags manufactured annually is still unknown.
What are the unique features of the Birkin?
Dumas took note of Jane Birkin's suggestions and requirements and crafted a spacious and luxurious bag in a sophisticated leather design. The Birkin ensures your bag's contents stay secure without spilling over. Additionally, its highly functional pockets, coveted by women, make it ideal for daily use. Due to their limited availability, Birkin bags command even higher prices on the resale market.
How much do the bags cost?
To date, Hermès bags are some of the world's most premium bags. These range from $9,000 (nearly Rs. 7,40,000) to anywhere near $500,000 (about Rs. 4 crore) for its high-end designs. According to studies, Birkin bags have generated a return on investment of more than 500% over the past few decades, outpacing both the S&P 500 index and the price of gold.
Many celebrities have a collection of Birkins
The brand's exclusive reputation is significantly attributed to the frequent sightings of celebrities flaunting it. Former American reality TV star Paris Hilton has been a regular customer as she has been photographed many times with Birkin bags. Fashion designer and former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham, who reportedly has an extensive collection of Birkins, has also been spotted with them several times.
How to own a Birkin
Buying a Birkin stock is largely unknown to people. The Hermès website lists its other products and categories apart from these bags. Hermès suggests going to the nearest boutique. According to Vogue, the supply of Birkin bags varies according to the location. Meanwhile, fashion enthusiasts can get second-hand Birkins via many luxury platforms including Privé Porter, The RealReal, and Farfetch.
