The 'Wirkin' bag, an affordable handbag sold by Walmart, has become a viral sensation, leading to rapid sell-outs both online and in stores. TikTok users have flocked to Walmart to purchase the bag, posting hundreds of unboxing and haul videos under the hashtag #walmartbirkin, which has amassed millions of views. El Comercio reports that the Wirkin bags are currently sold out in nearly every color online, with customers eagerly awaiting restocks due to its popularity.
The Wirkin bag has gained attention for its striking resemblance to the iconic Hermès Birkin bag, a global symbol of luxury and exclusivity. The Hermès Birkin, named after British actress Jane Birkin, is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and hefty price tag, starting at approximately $10,000 and reaching up to $500,000 for rare models like the Diamond Himalaya Birkin. Newsweek reports that the high prices and exclusivity of the Birkin bag make it out of reach for most consumers.
Influencers on TikTok, such as Kristi and Dillon Reeds, have been promoting the Walmart bags, emphasizing their affordability compared to the authentic Birkin. In a viral video, Kristi unboxed her $79.99 BESTSPR Platinum Lychee Tote in emerald green and said, "For $80, you can pretend that you got a Birkin." Dillon Reeds praised the bag's design, noting that "other than it not having the Hermès logo, it literally has all of the same hardware," as reported by The Independent.
The surge in popularity has sparked a debate within the fashion community. Supporters of the Wirkin see it as democratizing fashion, providing an accessible way to enjoy high-end aesthetics without the prohibitive cost. According to The Economic Times, many consumers appreciate the Wirkin for offering a semblance of the glamour associated with the Hermès Birkin, catering to those who love luxury looks without the high price tag.
Critics argue that the Wirkin diminishes the exclusivity of the original Hermès Birkin handbag. Michael Mack, a Las Vegas luxury reseller known as the 'Birkin matchmaker,' expressed concerns about Walmart's Birkin replica. "Walmart's Birkin replica might offer a similar look at a low price, but as someone who stands firmly behind authenticity, I see it as part of a larger problem," Mack said in an interview with Newsweek.
Legal experts have weighed in on the matter, discussing potential trademark infringements. Douglas Hand, a fashion lawyer, stated that Hermès could pursue a cause of action of trade dress infringement against Walmart and the third-party vendors selling the Birkin dupe. "For an extremely valuable product like Birkin, which could be diluted and devalued through its overexposure, it would not be surprising for Hermès to take an aggressive approach," Hand said, according to Women's Wear Daily.
Hermès has a history of defending its trademarks and design rights vigorously. According to Women's Wear Daily, the French luxury house has targeted exact counterfeits and inspired designs in the past, including lawsuits against sellers of counterfeit goods. While the Wirkin bag lacks the Hermès logo and is sold without any direct affiliation to the brand, its resemblance to the Birkin bag raises questions about intellectual property rights.
The phenomenon of the Wirkin bag highlights a broader tension in the fashion industry between exclusivity and accessibility. According to FashionUnited, the rise of budget-friendly dupes like the Wirkin appeals to young consumers seeking luxury style on a budget but also sparks debates about the impact on luxury brands. The availability of such products raises ethical and legal questions about the line between inspiration and imitation.
Despite the controversy, many consumers express enthusiasm for the affordable alternative. "A bag should not cost more than a house. I'm here for the Walmart Birkin bag," commented one TikTok user, according to The Economic Times. The viral trend shows no signs of slowing down, with social media continuing to drive unexpected sales and influence consumer behavior.
Walmart and Hermès have not publicly commented on the situation. Women's Wear Daily reports that representatives for both companies did not return requests for comments ahead of publishing. Meanwhile, the Wirkin bag remains a hot topic on social media, reflecting ongoing conversations about fashion, consumerism, and the balance between aspiration and accessibility in the modern market.
This article was written in collaboration with generative AI company Alchemiq