The Hermès Birkin is widely regarded as the most sought-after, nearly impossible-to-find, and highly collectible bag ever created. The design that we know and love today was the result of a collaboration between Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas and actress Jane Birkin. Jane expressed dissatisfaction with the practicality of her Kelly bag, leading Dumas to invite her to Hermès’ workshop to design a custom bag. The resulting Birkin bag was a modification of the existing Hermès Haut à Courroies (HAC) design, made shorter and smaller, with handles suitable for carrying over the arm. Jane Birkin received the first 40cm Birkin bag in 1984, and the iconic status of the Birkin was born.
What sets the Birkin apart from other handbags is that each one is meticulously crafted by a single, highly skilled artisan. The construction of each Birkin bag takes between 18 to 30 hours, depending on the specific details. These bags are handmade in France by expert artisans using the company’s signature saddle stitching, a technique developed in the 1800s. Each artisan takes full responsibility for the creation of the Birkin they work on, reflecting Hermès' commitment to craftsmanship, a value upheld by the family-owned company.
Birkin retail prices range from $10,500 to $150,000. Given that each bag is handmade and unique, prices vary depending on the type of leather and hardware used. Hermès offers “Special Orders” (SO) to VIP clients, allowing them to customize nearly every aspect of their Birkin, including size, color combinations, leather, and hardware. These bags are distributed to Hermès boutiques in very limited quantities, enhancing their scarcity and exclusivity. Birkin bags are considered investment pieces that tend to hold or even increase in value over time.
As of June 2017, an Hermès Birkin holds the record for the most expensive handbag ever sold. A matte White Himalayan Niloticus crocodile Birkin, adorned with over 240 diamonds on its 18-karat-gold hardware, fetched an astonishing $379,261 (2,940,000 Hong Kong dollars) at a Christie’s auction.
Given their exclusivity and Hermès' penchant for secrecy, information about Birkin bags can be somewhat elusive. The variety of sizes, measurements, terminology, and colors might leave you feeling overwhelmed. But Opuluxe is here to guide you in choosing the perfect Birkin to add to your collection. In this guide, we'll explore the different sizes and features of the classic Birkin and the HAC Birkin, helping you navigate the world of these iconic handbags with ease.
Birkin 20
The Birkin 20 is extremely rare and highly coveted. It is one of the smallest sizes in the Birkin lineup, often produced in limited quantities and typically available only to Hermès VIP clients or through special order. Due to its rarity, it is considered a collector's item and is often more challenging to find than the more common Birkin sizes. The exclusivity and small-scale production make the Birkin 20 a prized possession among luxury bag enthusiasts.
Birkin 25
The Birkin 25 is among the rarest sizes, often reserved for VIP clients. This size is ideal for special occasions or evening events, with its compact design making it easy to carry by hand. Despite its petite dimensions, the B25 offers more carrying capacity than most mini bags, allowing you to transition effortlessly from day to night. Favored by those with a smaller frame, it’s particularly popular in Asian markets.
Birkin 30
Measuring 30cm x 22cm x 16cm, the Birkin 30 is the most sought-after size, offering the perfect balance for everyday use. It’s spacious enough to hold essentials like a wallet, phone, sweater, water bottle, and notepad. Its versatility allows it to be carried by hand or on the forearm, making it an ideal companion for both casual and formal occasions.
Birkin 35
The Birkin 35 is larger and more spacious, making it a functional choice for daily use. Originally designed for Jane Birkin, this size is perfect for carrying work-related items such as a laptop, documents, or other office essentials. With its ample capacity, the B35 keeps you organized and ready for the day, making it a stylish and practical option for both the office and travel. This size is especially popular in Europe and the U.S.
Birkin 40
A lesser-requested size, the Birkin 40 is designed for those who need substantial carrying capacity. Its generous dimensions make it ideal for travelers or anyone who needs to carry a significant amount of belongings. The B40 is particularly favored by men and, while not as commonly available, it serves as a unique statement piece that combines luxury with practicality.
Birkin HAC 40
The Birkin HAC 40, short for "Haut à Courroies," offers a taller, more structured design, making it a preferred choice for those who need both elegance and ample storage. This size is versatile enough for both work and travel, providing a timeless aesthetic with a functional twist.
Birkin HAC 50
The Birkin HAC 50 is the epitome of luxury for those who require maximum storage capacity. With its larger dimensions, this size is perfect for extended trips or when you need to carry more than just the essentials. Its grandeur and practicality make it a rare yet highly desirable choice for discerning travelers.
Anatomy of a Birkin Bag
The Birkin bag’s iconic design has set the standard for luxury handbags worldwide. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
Handles: The Birkin bag is characterized by two sturdy handles, designed for easy hand-carrying.
Flap Closure: The bag features a classic flap closure that covers the opening, providing both security and elegance.
Sangles: These are the two leather buckle straps that fasten the bag. They loop through metal brackets called Pontets and can be secured with a turnlock.
Turnlock: This is the rotating knob that the padlock hooks onto, securing the contents of the bag.
Signature ‘H’ Padlock: The Birkin's distinctive ‘H’ padlock adds an extra layer of security and style, locking the bag through the turnlock.
Clochette: A leather lanyard, often with a bell shape, designed to hold the keys for the padlock.
Pontet: The metal brackets that hold the sangles (buckle straps) in place.
Plaque: These are the metal hardware pieces on each sangle that clasp over the turnlock, adding to the bag’s polished look.
Feet: The Birkin bag is equipped with four metal feet at the base, designed to protect the leather when the bag is set down. Larger sizes of the bag, such as the 50cm and 55cm versions, have six feet for added support.
Each of these elements contributes to the Birkin bag’s unparalleled blend of form, function, and luxury.
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