The "Walmart Birkin," also known as the "Wirkin," is a handbag that closely resembles the luxury handbag, but for less than $100. Photo courtesy: BESTSPR/Walmart
Share and Follow

(NewsNation) — Walmart is offering an alternative to the Hermès Birkin handbag, making the luxury look accessible to a wider audience, but the budget-friendly piece has become a point of controversy in the process.

The “Walmart Birkin,” also known as the “Wirkin,” is a handbag that closely resembles the luxury handbag, but for less than $100.

The original Hermes Birkin is known for its exclusivity and high price tags, often ranging from about $9,000 to $500,000. Authentic handbags can be resold for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The Wirkin has gained attention across social media platforms; but not everyone is a fan, sparking some debates online.

‘Wirkin’ floods TikTok

TikTok may be behind the viral rise of the Wirkin trend, with the bag gaining widespread attention across the platform.

Priced between $78 and $102, depending on the size, the Wirkin has inspired unboxing videos and users sharing styling tips under the hashtag #walmartbirkin.

However, the trend has sparked an online debate about luxury fashion versus fast fashion.

The "Walmart Birkin," also known as the "Wirkin," is a handbag that closely resembles the luxury handbag, but for less than $100. Photo courtesy: BESTSPR/Walmart
The “Walmart Birkin,” also known as the “Wirkin,” is a handbag that closely resembles the luxury handbag, but for less than $100. Photo courtesy: BESTSPR/Walmart

Luxury fashion vs fast fashion

Supporters view the Wirkin as a way to enjoy a Birkin-inspired look without the hefty price tag, while critics argue it diminished the exclusivity of the original.

Authentic Hermes Birkin handbags are handmade in France with exceptional craftsmanship, making them a status symbol coveted by celebrities and fashion lovers worldwide. However, their exclusivity makes them out of reach for most consumers.

PARIS, FRANCE – DECEMBER 18: Diane Batoukina wears a grey leather Birkin Hermes bag, during a street style fashion photo session, on December 18, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)

While some view the Wirkin as the democratization of fashion, others argue it undermines the allure of high-end brands.

The trend has also prompted debates on consumerism, status and TikTok’s growing influence on fashion.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Tropical Storm Chantal gets stronger as it approaches South Carolina for landfall

MIAMI – Tropical Storm Chantal grew in strength as it approached the…

Recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke

SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Walking out in the heat may be avoidable…

Man shoots suspected intruder in his mother’s house, as reported by Osceola County deputies

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – A man arrested on the Fourth of July…

Examining the most severe floods in the United States over the past 25 years

(AP) – Flooding has caused an average of more than 125 deaths…

Volunteers show up for after the Fourth beach cleanup at Treasure Island

TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. (WFLA) — Volunteers gathered at Treasure Island Beach on…

The Villages Health company faces criticism for receiving excessive Medicare payments and takes legal action by filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

THE VILLAGES, Fla. – A major health care group that caters to…

“Tragic Mass Shooting Leaves 7 Injured, 2 Fatalities in Downtown Indianapolis”

INDIANAPOLIS – The community is wondering what led to a mass shooting…

Texas officials under investigation for their handling of disastrous and fatal floods

KERRVILLE, Texas – Before heading to bed before the Fourth of July…