When it comes to luxury fashion, few items are as iconic and sought after as the Hermès Birkin bag – here’s why they make such a good investment.
First introduced in 1984 and named after actress and singer Jane Birkin, the Birkin bag has become a symbol of style, sophistication, and exclusivity. But beyond its status as a fashion statement, the Birkin has also become a popular piece for collectors and investors alike. Here are a few of the reasons why investing in a Hermès Birkin bag makes sense.
High Resale Value
Birkin bags hold their value very well. Many have sold for more than their original retail price on the secondary market, and even up to millions of dollars at auction – this means that if you decide to sell yours down the line, you may be able to recoup your initial investment or even make a profit. And, with visibly worn Birkin bags becoming ever-more sought after, investing and selling second-hand styles have become an increasingly popular (and lucrative) choice.
Because of this, the Birkin bag is historically a safer investment than the stock market, with prices rising by 500% over a 35-year period – an average of 14% per year.
Rarity and Exclusivity
One of the primary reasons that Birkin bags are so coveted is their rarity and exclusivity. Each bag is meticulously crafted by hand and can take up to 48 hours to make. Hermès only produces a limited number of Birkin bags each year, and many styles and colors are released in extremely limited quantities. This scarcity drives up demand and makes the Birkin a collector’s dream.
Hermès also releases limited edition styles which come at a high price. These rare versions are highly sought after by collectors and can increase in value significantly over time. For example, a Diamond Himalaya Birkin sold at a Sotheby’s auction for over $400,000 in 2022, a price well over its retail value, making it a valuable investment.
Timeless Design
The Birkin bag’s design is timeless and classic, which means that it will never go out of style. Unlike other fashion items that may fall out of favor or lose their appeal over time, the Birkin bag’s enduring popularity means that it will always be in demand. This makes it a great investment for those looking to purchase a luxury item that will hold its value over the long term.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Hermès is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and quality materials. Each Birkin bag is handmade by skilled artisans who spend hours meticulously crafting each bag. The bags are made from high-quality leather and hardware, ensuring they are durable and long-lasting.
Stock market connoisseur or Birkin aficionado? We might be biased, but we’ll always take the bag.
