I Took the Iconic Birkin Bag for a Spin—Here’s What I Loved (and Discovered) About This Classic Style.

      What makes Hermès's Birkin bag truly iconic to me is not just its stunning design—it’s the intriguing, often neglected story behind it. The bag came into existence by chance in 1984 when actress Jane Birkin found herself next to Hermès executive Jean-Louis Dumas during a flight. After her belongings tumbled from the straw bag she was known for, she revealed her struggle to find a handbag that was both practical and stylish. Dumas sketched the preliminary design for what would ultimately become the Birkin at that moment. What started as a casual conversation evolved into the most legendary handbag design ever—a creation that, even decades later, remains seen as the ultimate symbol of status. So when I had the chance to finally experience a Birkin for myself, I couldn't refuse. One morning, I visited Fashionphile’s headquarters, which boasts one of the most impressive collections of Birkins outside of an Hermès boutique. I tried various sizes, played around with what could fit inside, and learned what makes each version unique. For a few hours, I carried it, took photos, and even imagined it was mine. What I discovered—and loved—significantly changed my perspective on why this bag has lasted so long.

      As I set out to spend my morning among Birkins, one question lingered in my mind: Is it truly worth the investment? The Birkin is more than just a bag—it represents an entire market in itself and has long been perceived as a purchase that could outperform the stock market, but is that actually the case? For some insight, I spoke with Lara Osborn, SVP of Merchandising & Fulfillment at Fashionphile, who has witnessed the rapid movement of these bags within the resale market. According to Osborn, “In a real-life scenario, a Fashionphile seller who purchased her Birkin for $9,850 in 2020 sold it to Fashionphile for just over $21,000 in 2025—that’s a 115% ROI. A quick internet search shows that a $9,850 investment in the S&P 500 at the start of 2020 would yield a 109% ROI." In simpler terms, the Birkin is not only maintaining its value—it’s, in some cases, outperforming Wall Street.

      So, what contributes to the bag's strong value retention? Osborn notes that its "timeless style and craftsmanship are mainly what have kept the Birkin at the forefront of the most iconic and inherently valuable handbags. For over 26 years, Fashionphile has evaluated and authenticated tens of thousands of Birkins, and one fact is clear: these bags are constructed to last.” Scarcity also plays a key role, but the wide variety of options—from different leathers to hardware and colors—ensures there's always another model to desire. “At Fashionphile, we have documented over 5,000 unique variations of Hermès Birkins,” she adds.

      Regarding specific models, some versions clearly stand out. “The 25cm Birkin in Togo leather has consistently retained its popularity over the years,” Osborn points out. “A decade ago, a ‘store fresh’ black Togo leather 25cm Birkin in pristine condition would rarely sell for $20,000 in the secondary market, but today, it frequently sells for $32,000 or more.” Meanwhile, classic neutrals like black, Craie (a chalky white), and Chai remain highly sought after, even as seasonal colors come and go.

      Beyond the numbers, what captivates me most about this bag is the profound cultural impact it has had since its inception. eBay's Resident Celebrity Stylist Brie Welch summed it up well: “The Birkin is not merely a bag; it serves as a cultural artifact with a backstory linked to French icon Jane Birkin’s need for a functional carryall. Baby bottles and all. The connection with Jane, coupled with Hermès’ esteemed craftsmanship and durability, has solidified it as a timeless design that embodies luxury and status.” In essence, it has become synonymous with aspiration—an accessory that conveys taste, wealth, and an appreciation for fashion history all at once. This legacy persists today, even as the resale market transforms how individuals shop for style. Welch observes that platforms like eBay are enhancing access to rare and elusive pieces, making the thrill of the hunt much more streamlined. “An eBay search for ‘Hermès Birkin’ yields thousands of listings in every imaginable color and finish—the inventory is vast!” she explains. Her recommendation for my initial purchase? Utilize filters to refine your search by material, hardware, or price range.

      The resale market plays a unique role in the evolution of the Birkin bag, adding another chapter to its iconic story. As Welch emphasizes, “Birkins are synonymous with exclusivity, and much of that is attributed to its high entry price point