The latest Birkin causing a stir in the fashion world isn’t a Birkin at all. It’s an $80 Walmart handbag that so closely resembles (at least in photos) the real Hermès style that it has Birkin lovers and haters in a tizzy. Enter the “Wirkin.” Or the “Wermes.”
Image courtesy: Walmart
The now-sold out style by BESTSPR with the listed title of Platinium Lychee Tote is made of faux leather with polyester lining, and includes many Hermès Birkin design features like the two handles, flap closure with turnlock, sangles, pontet, and straps. Purporting to be the 30cm size, the measurements don’t quite match an actual Hermès bag. But they do come awfully close at 11.81″L x 9.45″H x 5.91″W (as compared to 11.5” W x 9” H X 6” D). There are plenty of other obvious differences – like the omission of feet (or clou as they are properly named) and the hallmark lock and clochette, as well as the addition of a shoulder strap.
Image courtesy: TikTok @Lifestyle.With.G
Image courtesy: TikTok @nyasiaximani
Of course, and most importantly, the Wirkin lacks Hermès’ famous name and date stamping, and any and all authentic markings of a true Birkin. No one is passing this bag off as the real thing and it is unlikely that anyone will confuse this product as a Hermès Birkin. However, the design is so close that many are left wondering why Hermès isn’t challenging the Wirkin.
Adding to the mystery is that Walmart actually sells what are claimed to be real Hermès bags on its website. Available through eLady Limited, a Japan-based reseller, these bags list at prices above Hermès retail.
Image courtesy: Walmart
Perhaps call it the “Wirkin Effect,” but this Walmart product has polarized fashionistas into camps that support “dupes” and denounce the idea of purchasing five-figure cost handbags, and those who love their legitimate Birkins and condemn dupe culture. The online commentary has become somewhat vicious – dividing handbag lovers worldwide.
People who are irritated by this need to check themselves. Jane Birkin wanted a bigger everyday bag to hold her stuff and she put that bag to use and wore it down like its original intention.
Some people may never have the financial means to attain such a bag, and if the Walmès version is their bag of choice and they are happy with their choice then good for them.
There are no lines that are being crossed when the original purpose was to use it in their daily lives, and not as a high status symbol and collectors investment portfolio.
@jonathizzle via Reddit
This “movement” is just like any other replica burst we’ve seen over the years. Even the most recent and coveted Superdupes of Manhattan over the last few years included.
I question why a Walmart rep would be any more damaging or threatening to the brand than the many others that are out there?
Besides the obvious, which is price point, I find it fascinating that the conversation has turned to it feeling like these bags would take anything away from authentic purchases.
Just like with all of luxury, the value is in how the buyer perceives it. Nothing can change or replace the craftsmanship of a real Birkin.
@Apprehensive-Bat5066 via Reddit
And it’s not split just on the basis of income and wealth – i.e. those who can afford a real Birkin and those who cannot. Dupe culture – supporting the look without leaning into the real thing at the top price – attracts fashion folk from all socioeconomic points.
Image courtesy: TikTok @ericastolmandowdy
Image courtesy: TikTok @ericastolmandowdy
Of course, there are those angry that despite financial means, they cannot purchase the Hermès bag, because it is not available “to them.” Most people cannot just walk into a boutique and purchase a Birkin, a fact recently acknowledged by Hermès artistic director (and heir) Pierre-Alexis Dumas in a CBS interview, although he claims that with time and patience, you will be able to buy one. Indeed, three people in California have sued Hermès because they could not purchase the desired bags, in their lawsuit alleging antitrust violations.
Others, with and without wealth, challenge the moral and economic decision to spend large sums on these accessories. For those that like the Birkin style, the Wirkin gives them the look, and maybe what they feel is moral superiority.
Where do you stand on Walmart’s copycat Birkin design?
Read related articles:
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Is Your Hermès Birkin a Fashion Investment or a Financial Investment?
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