Buying a birkin bag can be very overwhelming. The exclusivity of the Hermès Birkin Bag is what makes people seek it, but for some it’s hard to find; at least at an affordable price or from a trustworthy source. The second hand market is brimming with Birkin bags. Depending on the size, leather, color, and hardware, the Birkin Bag ranges from 7k on the low end (and honestly that’s rare to find) to the upwards of 50k plus. What I see on average is a birkin around 15-18k. And while that might seem like a pretty penny, the bag can be an even better financial advancement than stocks or real estate.
Breaking down the money
No, I’m not a financial expert. My shopping addiction can definitely validate that, but that’s what the smart money people say, and I like to believe them. Think about this, stocks have an average rate of return of 9%, and you can buy a Birkin today from the store (well you might not be able to, I’ll explain more in a moment), but if you are a lucky one who can buy a Birkin bag from an Hermès store you could purchase perhaps a 25 gold with silver hardware for $11,000, then go sell it for $18,000 the next day. I’m also not a math expert but that’s way more than a 9% growth, and in a shorter amount of time.
Who knows if Birkins will continue to increase over the coming decades as they have in recent ones, but there are no signs of that trend stopping. Even with the changes in consumer behavior and some large luxury houses starting to see dips in revenue. The place to keep your eye on is the resell market, and how the demand and supply continue to mutually grow.
Buying second hand
I just love being able to shop handbags from trusted consignors. There’s something fun about getting to know a shop and building a connection with the people who work there; and there is no place other than The Refind Closet where I’d trust buying a Birkin from. In addition to the authentication they provide they also have such an incredible variety. You’ll find leathers and hardware combinations you didn’t even know existed, or you’ll find the style that’s been on your wishlist and you’re ready to pull the trigger and just do it.
I’ve never met an un-stylish person who owns a Birkin, so consider it a bucket list item for self love, or something that you can add to your wardrobe and truly wear all year round. And on that note, please don’t be afraid to wear your high-end designer goods. You have them so they can be loved and worn. Your Birkin deserves to see the world. Take her to get coffee, to the gym, to the grocery store, out to dinner, or for drinks with your girlfriends. Enjoy the things you work hard for and let them, and yourself live a little.
Styling a Birkin
While there is no wrong way to style a Birkin, and I only half jest at bringing one to the gym there are endless ways to style one. Here are some of my favorite ways to style a Birkin.
1. Running around town (Classic Elegance)
- Outfit: Tailored blazer, white button-down shirt, and tailored trousers or a pencil skirt.
- Footwear: Classic pumps or loafers.
- Accessories: Minimalist jewelry and a silk scarf tied around the Birkin handle for a touch of sophistication.
2. Weekend errands (Casual Chic)
- Outfit: Well-fitted jeans, a crisp white tee, and a denim jacket or lightweight cardigan.
- Footwear: Stylish sneakers or ankle boots.
- Accessories: Sunglasses and a statement belt. Consider adding a playful keychain or charm to the Birkin for a pop of personality.
3. Weekend Getaway
- Outfit: Comfortable jumpsuit or a maxi dress with a relaxed fit.
- Footwear: Espadrilles or flat sandals.
- Accessories: A wide-brimmed hat and layered necklaces. Use the Birkin to hold your essentials for a stylish day trip.
4. Office Ready
- Outfit: Structured shift dress or a pencil skirt with a blouse.
- Footwear: Block-heeled pumps or chic loafers.
- Accessories: A sleek watch and professional-looking sunglasses. Keep the Birkin organized with a purse organizer for a polished appearance.
5. Evening Glam
- Outfit: Little black dress or a sophisticated jumpsuit.
- Footwear: Strappy heels or elegant flats.
- Accessories: Bold statement earrings and a clutch-sized purse. If you prefer the Birkin, opt for a darker or metallic shade to complement the evening look.
6. To the farmer’s market (Boho Vibes)
- Outfit: Flowy maxi skirt, a relaxed blouse, and a fringe vest or kimono.
- Footwear: Sandals or ankle boots with a bohemian flair.
- Accessories: Layered bracelets and a wide-brimmed hat. You can add a colorful scarf or keychain to the Birkin for a boho touch.
7. At the gym (Sporty Edge)
- Outfit: High-waisted joggers or leggings with a cropped hoodie or sporty jacket.
- Footwear: Trendy sneakers or slip-ons.
- Accessories: A sporty cap and minimalistic jewelry. Use a casual or color-coordinated Birkin to enhance the sporty vibe.
8. Travel Ready
- Outfit: Comfortable travel wear like leggings and a soft sweater or wrap.
- Footwear: Slip-on shoes or comfortable boots.
- Accessories: Travel-sized pouches and a scarf for comfort. The Birkin is perfect for holding your travel essentials in style.
10. Day to Night Transition
- Outfit: A versatile dress or separates that can easily transition from day to evening.
- Footwear: Flats or low heels for day, swapping for high heels or dressy flats for evening.
- Accessories: Switch up accessories like jewelry or scarves to shift the look from day to night while carrying the same Birkin.
