The Walmart “Wirkin” bag has taken social media by storm, thanks to its striking resemblance to the iconic Hermès Birkin. Fashion enthusiasts across the internet have expressed mixed opinions about the viral item.
Launched in Walmart stores in 2024, the Wirkin closely mirrors the high-end Birkin’s exterior, with similar size, front buckles, and handles. However, it’s made with different materials and comes at a much more affordable price point, appealing to shoppers who want the look of luxury without the hefty price tag. According to the UK Times, the Wirkin is produced by Kamugo and crafted from a blend of genuine cowhide and synthetic leather. The bag is priced between $78 and $100, depending on size and color. While it isn’t available on Walmart’s website anymore, the Wirkin can be found on TikTok Shop and through various online resellers.
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How much is a Hermès Birkin bag?
Fans who’ve managed to get their hands on the popular dupe are excited that the bag offers a chance to rock a “high-quality” luxury look without having to shell out thousands of dollars. A genuine Birkin, which is made with various types of leathers like Epsom, togo, swift, and alligator, can cost a fortune, with the Birkin 25 priced at around $10,145, the Birkin 30 at $11,200, and the Birkin 35 at $12,450, according to InStyle.
“Why pay thousands of dollars for a handbag, when you can have the same style, colors, and quality for less!” read one customer review of the popular fashion item on Walmart’s website. “This handbag is so beautiful inside and out. I own several of these handbags in different colors and sizes. They are the softest leather, and are also leather-lined inside.”
Jessica, a fashion content creator, who goes by the name @jessi.my on TikTok said she was blown away by how “well-made” the Wirkin was constructed. She has purchased two of the buzzing handbags.
“Even if it wasn’t a dupe or an inspired bag, I would still love it. It’s great for holding a lot of items. I’ve traveled with it, used it for work, and even used it to hold my groceries,” Jessica told Glamour in a Jan. 3 interview.
When the Wirkin bags gained massive popularity in late November, Jessica shared tips and advice with thousands of fans on how to snag one. However, in December, she claimed that the bag was taken offline due to “intellectual property infringement” issues. This means that the design of the Wirkin may have been deemed too similar to that of the luxury Birkin bag, leading to potential legal concerns over the unauthorized use of trademarked elements, such as the bag’s distinct shape, logo, or other proprietary features. Hermès has yet to release a statement on the viral handbag or if they pursued legal action against Walmart.
Some aren’t happy about the Wirkin’s popularity.
With the legal ramifications in mind, Jenn Celeste, a fashion enthusiast who hosts the Thoughtful Threads podcast, said she believes the Wirkin may strip away the “status” and prestige that often comes with purchasing the Birkin, as its been a fashion item typically associated with the rich and uber-wealthy.
“Now, it has mass appeal and whenever something has mass appeal, ultra-wealthy people don’t want anything to do with it,” Celeste shared in a TikTok video posted Dec. 28, 2024, while analyzing some of the various arguments circulating online about the knock-off handbag. “So now, they’ve spent a stupid amount of money, to now have to second guess if people around them think that their bag is even real and they’re mad that the poors want to be in community with them even in some small vapid way like having a similar handbag.”
In an interview with Glamour, Celeste also expressed that the Wirkin detracts from the value of craftsmanship and quality, something that Hermès prides itself on.
“Many buying the Wirkin may love it momentarily, but it’s likely to end up on resale sites or in a landfill soon after the ultra-wealthy adopt new emblems. Today’s Hermès enthusiasts prioritize status over craftsmanship—if they truly valued the quality, they wouldn’t choose a Wirkin.”
Additionally, a YouTuber named Tuadior argued that the Wirkin bag has highlighted America’s obsession with luxury and how this obsession can negatively impact one’s sense of self and individuality. In her video shared Jan. 10, Tuadior said that she believes many people buy counterfeit or designer items not for their intrinsic value, but to project an image of wealth and exclusivity. However, there are often more affordable or even better alternatives that may suit one’s personal style more effectively.
“The issue that I have with luxury is that luxury can become so basic. I think that we’re losing our individualism,” she added.
What are your thoughts on the viral Wirkin bag? Is it hot or a total flop?
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