The Hermès Birkin isn’t your average handbag. Jane Birkin once mentioned she needed a bag that was both roomy and stylish. In the 1980s, Hermès designed one for her, and that practical idea ended up becoming one of the most famous and the hardest to get handbags in the world. Prices start in the five figures and climb quickly, especially for rare skins. Getting one straight from Hermès isn’t as simple as walking into a boutique either — most people end up on long waitlists or hunting through resellers. Over the years, the Birkin has slipped from fashion into pop culture, appearing on celebrity arms, in rap lyrics, and at auction houses where some pieces sell for more than houses.
When you walk into Hermès, the first question isn’t about colour. It’s about size. A Birkin 25 feels compact, almost dainty. A 40 can double as a weekender. The 30 is a safe middle ground, which is why you see it everywhere. Lately, the tiny 15cm “Baby Birkin” has been causing a stir. The right size isn’t about trends; it’s about how you plan to use it. If you want an everyday bag, bigger makes sense. If you’re buying a showpiece, smaller does the job.
Hermès uses different leathers, each with its own character. Togo is sturdy with a soft grain, Clemence has a looser drape, and Epsom is stiff and keeps its boxy shape. Then there are the crocodile and exotic skins, which auction houses treat like gold. Hardware finishes matter too. Some combinations quietly sell better on the resale market than others. The material you choose affects not just how the bag looks, but how well it holds value.
Collectors divide Birkins into two camps. There are the timeless ones — think black Togo leather with gold hardware. Then there are the limited runs: artist collabs, unusual colours, or experimental materials. The first will almost always stay valuable. The second can be a thrill but might not age as gracefully. The question is whether you want a bag that works in 20 years, or one that sparks a conversation right now.
Counterfeits are everywhere. Buying direct from Hermès is safest, but not everyone makes it past the waiting lists. That’s where resellers step in. Stick to the trusted ones — the kind that hand over paperwork, original packaging, and walk you through every code inside the bag. A genuine Birkin comes with a paper trail. If a seller hesitates on details, walk away.