Walmart “Bags” a Luxury Purse Controversy

Designer handbags aren’t just a coveted fashion accessory—they’re often an investment. So, what happens when Walmart sells a knock-off Hermès Birkin bag? Naturally, social media erupts.

A knock-off Birkin bag sold on Walmart’s website went viral, becoming known as the “Wirkin” on social media.
This screenshot from a TikTok video posted by @lifestyle.with_g in December shows the viral bag in all its green glory.
Photo courtesy @lifestyle.with_g/TikTok

What’s the hottest name among luxury handbag fans? At the moment, it might be “Walmart.” Late in 2024, a handbag sold on Walmart’s website caught shoppers’ attention with its resemblance to the famous Hermès Birkin bag. It quickly became a sensation, growing popular enough for its own tag on TikTok. Although the bag is no longer available on Walmart’s website, the conversation is far from over.

Exclusivity is a significant part of the Birkin bag’s mystique. They start at $10,000 retail and can easily sell for more on the resale market. The “Walmart Birkin,” as it quickly became known, cost anywhere from about $60 to $300, depending on its size, color, and seller. (The bags were listed by third-party sellers.)

This Hermès matte white Himalaya Niloticus crocodile Birkin Bag with 18k white gold
and diamond hardware sold for $250,000 last December at Heritage Auctions.
Photo courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

While inexpensive imitations of luxury goods have been around for a long time, the popularity of designer “dupes” (short for “duplicates”) skyrocketed in the last few years. “Dupe culture” has effectively become a movement among younger shoppers who want inexpensive, easily accessible versions of luxurious looks.

But no trend escapes criticism. The popularity of dupes raises questions about intellectual property, and the Walmart Birkin is no exception. However, neither Walmart nor Hermès has commented on the bag as of this writing.

A fashion commenter speaking to Glamour brought up another issue: sustainability. Many believe the Walmart Birkin is “likely to end up on resale sites or in a landfill soon.” Easy come, easy go.

This Hermès black matte alligator Birkin bag sold for $137,500 at Heritage Auctions last October.
Photo courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

That may be what truly separates the Walmart Birkin from the designer article. Luxury handbags are often seen as an investment, and they have proven to be exceptionally good ones. In January 2022, Kovels On Antiques & Collectibles predicted that “fashion handbags,” mentioning Hermès by name, would be among the coming year’s hottest collectibles. If anything, that was an understatement. By 2024, the luxury handbag market was even stronger—and predicted to keep growing.

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