Walmart's "Wirkin" Bag Sparks Buzz As Affordable Birkin Alternative

Budget-conscious shoppers are snapping up Walmart’s affordable version of the Hermès Birkin bag, dubbed the “Wirkin.”

Kamugo, a maker of one Wirkin model, claims the bag uses genuine cowhide leather with synthetic interiors. I Photo: Walmart

The leather handbag, priced as low as $78 on Walmart’s website, has gained popularity as a more accessible alternative to the French luxury brand’s iconic Birkin. Many Wirkins have sold out following a wave of social media buzz, CNN’s Auzinea Bacon reported.

The original Hermès Birkin bag, a symbol of luxury, starts at around $7,200 and can cost up to $399,999 for rare editions.

Hermès bags are meticulously handcrafted, with some models taking up to 40 hours to complete. However, their exclusivity, high price point, and allegations of discriminatory sales practices have fueled demand for high-quality lookalikes like the Wirkin.

Kamugo, a maker of one Wirkin model, claims the bag uses genuine cowhide leather with synthetic interiors. Other brands such as BESTSPR and Judy also offer similar totes on Walmart’s site.

The rise of fashion influencers and online shopping has helped propel these budget-friendly options into the spotlight. “The Walmart Birkin bag is called a Wirkin, and it’s for the Wirkin class,” a TikTok user quipped, summing up the appeal of this viral accessory.