The Conversation Weekly The Birkin bag game
Apr 17, 2025
Aarushi Bhandari, a sociologist focused on internet spaces, and Parul Bhandari, a researcher on gender and class inequalities, dive into the allure of the iconic Birkin bag. They discuss its origins and its role as a status symbol among the elite. The conversation takes a twist with Walmart's 'Wirkin,' sparking debates on wealth disparity and consumer behavior. Topics include the rise of anti-elitism, the impact of social media on class consciousness, and how luxury fashion reflects broader cultural trends.
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Overnight Drive to Get Birkin
- A woman drove overnight across European countries after a sales associate hinted a Birkin might be available.
- People share intense stories of acquiring these rare, expensive bags on a dedicated subreddit.
Scarcity Fuels Birkin Demand
- Each Birkin is handcrafted and can take up to 48 hours, boosting its exclusivity and demand.
- Hermes maintains scarcity by limiting production, creating multi-year waiting lists and skyrocketing resale prices.
Birkin Signifies Status and Love
- The Birkin symbolizes global elite status and is a way for women to signal belonging to an elite class.
- It also represents love and affection, with husbands often helping to procure the bag, reinforcing conjugal bonds.