Your Thoughts?: Hermes, Cardi B, Saweetie, and Luxury Accessibility

Hermes birkin drama?

[@aprillashaun]

I am so glad you are back. I started watching your videos for the Birkin bags content. I think a Birkin bag is for anyone who likes them and can afford it, which makes it exclusive in itself because many people with the means to buy a Birkin still don't. I think it's even more exclusive when you get it from the boutique because it seems to be much harder to get it from there, but maybe it's just all my youtube watching because it seems like more and more ladies are getting them from the boutique on this platform. I would like to get a Kelly or Birkin from the boutique one day.

[@girlabee]

Yes, I've definitely noticed more birkin (and kelly) unboxings on KZbin lately! I wonder if they are being allowed to sell more because we're in an economic downturn--though I think Hermes is still doing quite well financially. But totally agree--when you factor in that there are only a certain number of people who can afford birkins in the first place, and then they have to want them it definitely narrows it down to an exclusive group.

[@girlabee]

And I hope you do get your birkin or kelly in the future!

[@aprillashaun]

@@girlabee Thank you so much for your comments. Like you, none of my family or friends understand my love for luxury purses. I hope I can get one too. I had to pause and admire your B25. I go back and forth between a 25 vs a 30 all the time. I know I want a smaller bag because I plan to use it as a purse and not a work bag or travel bag.

[@girlabee]

@@aprillashaun I think the 25 fits enough for a day out for regular use as a purse. The only issue for some is fitting it into the crook of your arm. When I'm wearing a long-sleeved sweater or blouse it can be difficult sometimes.

[@delicateflowerr3012]

I agree with most people here. If you can afford it, you should have it. I believe Cardi also said something to the effect of don’t go out of your way to buy luxury because these items don’t make the woman. Regarding buying in store, I would never waste my time with that process when these bags are readily available from other sources. I don’t think it makes the purchase any more special because the store “offered” it to you.

[@girlabee]

Fair enough!

[@donnapug]

Glad you’re back!... Got my Birkin on the first try in Paris and totally enjoyed the experience. I was offered two bags and actually refused the first one offered. I’m not an elitist. If you want the bag and can afford the bag, get the bag. Doesn’t diminish my experience nor diminish my owning one! My philosophy is when I eat, I want everyone else to eat too!

[@girlabee]

From what I've heard about the Paris Hermes experience, you got lucky! That's so great! I love that idea--when you eat, you want everyone else to eat too. Lovely 😊

[@BrooklynLondoner]

i think the Birkin woman for me is whoever can afford to spend that much on a bag yes, rap culture has highlighted the Birkin via cardi etc recently but still not everyone can afford the bag so it’s still exclusive in my eyes. Will it turn people off that it’s everywhere “now” sure but if you want a Birkin and can afford on you should still get it. However, when Kardashians, housewives, sex n the city girls all had the Birkin I’m sure some people were turned off then but the heat died out and people forgot. I love to see the average woman with a Birkin it makes me thing it’s more attainable for normal people and that’s why I love your collection and the stories behind your bags.

[@girlabee]

Thanks so much for your detailed response! "Awareness" of the birkin definitely seems to go in cycles, so I agree the heat will die down now like it has before. It's fun to see the crazy exotics and collections wealthy women have but I also enjoy seeing women save up to buy it for themselves to celebrate special occasions or because they've waited for years to do so.

[@dephnihyemi2507]

I started my own biz back in 2017 and now the biz is getting bigger and bigger I used to purchased chanel and lv then I finally I came round my 30s and I realised I need a birkin, its very statement foundational modern and chic, and they just match my personal style and taste, also it a good investment hehh a friend of a who hated hermes one day walked in the boutique with me and stared at birkin then he said wow now I get why people all want birkin .. if you can finically afford it then go for it but don't buy hermes just because its hermes

[@girlabee]

Definitely agree! Hermes is something I grew into over time after purchasing Chanel and LV like you, and I've come to see the birkin as so beautiful and my style now fits Hermes accessories and clothing much better than, say, Chanel.

[@syamaranir1804]

For my opinion, the quality of hermes are way far from other. I saving my pocket for a year to afford one, just because I consider to buy the quality bag that lasting for more years ahead compare buying other brand. I'm not a bag lover actually, never bother to buy branded bag. But one time try my friend birkin and kelly I just want them. They're craftsmanship was awesome. Other brand that I'm consider also the quilting quality of dior. Your opinion was true, with time chanel loss their quality. They don't keep the same lether quality. Sadly. I'm seeing this birkin fenomena start after kadarshian family got booming in early 2000, after SIC. This hype feel un real, the status make it boring. They forget the quality, and the humble style of birkin make it unacceptable for other. But ya, try one you will understand why it was so remarkable.

[@girlabee]

Thanks so much for your thoughts! We're definitely in agreement.

[@MeticulousShopper]

I think that the question of whether someone is "classy enough," especially for rappers, there's definitely some racism implied. Rich people come in all shapes and colors. However, I don't agree with the notion that a man needs to buy a woman a Birkins!

[@girlabee]

Thank you for watching and for sharing your thoughts!

[@sococo1464]

Growing up in NYC, Birkins were exclusively carried by the old money upper east side set and then later by the wives of Hedge Fund managers. I think that Cardi is absolutely right that the underlying issue is race but instead there is reference to "female rappers" or a more "urban demographic" devaluing the brand. I don't recall seeing a black woman with a Birkin until Naomi Campbell in the ~early 2000s. I say this as a black woman who Loves Birkins and has a great relationship with my SA and the brand. I think that there is space in the world for both Cardi B and Buffy Carnegie carrying the same bag 😂 I absolutely think that the exclusivity is a huge aspect of Hermes demand. If we only cared about beautifully handcrafted bags then we'd all just start ordering custom made bags from individual ateliers in France or Italy for a quarter of the price. Everyone hates the Hermes game until they have they winning hand. It is genius marketing!

[@girlabee]

It really is genius--Hermes certainly knows what they're doing. And I think that all the time--I could certainly order a custom leather handbag for far less than a birkin! But I enjoy them as you do and I enjoy taking part in the Hermes game 😉

[@evas1mom]

Awesome points of discussions! I couldn’t help but think what an amazing topic this would be to bring up in a Business class, to relate students with the pop culture and a brand like Hermes. How the brand has remained consistently elusive in terms of Birkin availability, and how it can gain popularity through rap music, reality shows and social media. While most have never seen a real-life Birkin, the image is so attainable now from a spectrum of outlets: uber rich socialites, rap game lux status, trending influencers. And then there’s the average fabulous woman who - without wealth - appreciates and loves luxury. Regardless, I find myself someone who loves what I love and don’t judge others for what they have or don’t have. I will be the first person to compliment your bag from across the street or restaurant - wink wink. I know doctors, professors, and entrepreneurs who are in the Birkin game, none of them are famous, but simply appreciate and rock tf out of the beautiful things they work hard to get. PLEASE make more videos! An update and wear and tear, a bag tag.... I’m here for all of it! 🥰

[@girlabee]

Totally! Hermes would be such an interesting case study of a brand that so tightly controls supply and demand and stays sort of on the fringes of popular culture, yet stays so profitable. I will be back with more videos 😊

[@AhhhsoNeo]

Oh my gosh, your arms are popping!!! Love your collection. I’ve been watching the drama on social media- it’s ridiculous. A fellow KZbinr posted all these nude pics of the actress Jane Birkin, namesake of the bag, to illustrate how she was an actress who sold the “WAP” so what’s the difference between Jane Birkin and the rappers. Great conversation.

[@girlabee]

Yes! Jane Birkin was considered so provocative in her day and I don't think most people realize there is far more of a parallel between her and Cardi B, for instance, than there initially appears. And thank you for your kind words 😁

[@jenniferalbert910]

I have been thinking about this a lot lately - thanks so much for your thoughts!

[@girlabee]

Thanks so much for watching, Jennifer!

[@jenniferalbert910]

@@girlabee thanks for hosting this discussion!! I have thoughts but they feel too long to put in a KZbin comment (but here I go anyway lol). I am pro-Cardi B and pro-Saweetie but anti-KKW et al; I am interested in the trend of male stars like Drake and Floyd Mayweather owning Birkins. I feel like they can be used as a tool to encourage over-consumption, but I cheer when someone buys something for themselves that they like and can afford. I’m frustrated that an old-money company seems so interested in keeping them so ultra-exclusive and shrouding their selling practices in appointments and invitations and insider-knowledge. I want a Kelly Retourne 25 but can’t bring myself to spend so much; recently purchased a small Givenchy Antigona in black as an all-rounder for 80-90% off the cost of a Kelly (which gives you an idea of where my luxury head is at currently). I feel lots of survivor’s guilt that other people are going without food and safe water while I buy luxury handbags but I also recognize that buying things helps the world go ‘round. It’s a jumble for me for sure 🧐 But I definitely appreciate the dialogue and the thoughts of others!

[@saajackson]

Honestly, I think it's an issue of respectability. The age old new money vs old money. People don't like that someone such as a Cardi B has the means to buy Hermes (they probably jealous too). Also, the statements that Saweetie and other rappers make regarding the fitness/worth of a partner being based in their financial ranking and ability to purchase luxury items such as a Birkin highlights the notion that the coveting of Birkins and Kelly's etc is heavily rooted in materialism. Even though many have the same mentality they don't appreciate when it is said so plainly and not softened with the mention of one's appreciation for the brand. At the end of the day it's a product and we like it partly, if not mostly because of its exorbitant cost and high monetary value. It is a display of one's personal wealth. I am not invested in Hermes as a brand enthusiast or customer (I'm only 22 and relatively po' I just like to watch luxury youtubers especially when its obvious that the person really loves their items) however I can understand the upset. But at the end of the day all that's needed to acquire a Birkin is enough money and a desire to have one. Class is not a requirement. Until people can accept that they gone stay mad because the saweeties and cardis will continue to purchase and Hermes will continue to take their money. I like your haircut btw

[@girlabee]

I agree with so many things you said! Especially on the issue of respectability politics: even though Cardi and Saweetie and others have the money, many think they still don't deserve to have these items, in a way. I appreciate that they acknowledge that, for them, birkins (and other luxury items) are a way to convey their new economic status and I can totally see why that would be important to them.

[@keodi1]

@ Safiyyah Jackson I agree with everything you said!

[@staceyfloyd-thomas3647]

What a provocative and pointed discussion. Let’s face it, it’s ALL about conspicuous consumption and the profile and cache that comes with it. That’s what luxury shopping is, FULL STOP. But ridiculous ing Black female rappers for their monetary and popular capital is highly problematic. Money is green and anyone who has it should be able to buy what they want. Strategically placed spending or access to a kairos moment affords people opportunity to buy Hermès, yes a brand that seeks to be exclusive. These two FAMOUS rappers have capital and clout. And these haters hate it. Cardi B was right in calling this out as racist. The Birkin was named after an ACTRESS for heaven’s sake! If these haters keep clapping back they’ll be clamoring to by the next Hermes bag called the Cardi-B...and possibly unable to afford it or denied access to acquire it.

[@girlabee]

That's a great point--obviously Hermes loved a famous female figure enough to create and name a handbag after her (and the kelly is named after Grace Kelly, so at least two have been so named) and Jane Birkin in her day was considered quite provocative as well!

[@c.christmas2903]

I am too old to care about what two female rappers say or think. However, I discuss with my daughter their influence and the importance of what they say and do. Like you, I have made some of my luxury purchases based on my accomplishments; which is important for my daughter to see and understand. She also understands that none of these things we actually need. Love your hair!!!

[@girlabee]

I love that you're teaching your daughter that accomplishments are important and that she can reward herself, but material items are fleeting!

[@mashondaknight9132]

I say if you work for it you should treat yourself I personally love nice things I work hard for it.All this about the backlash about Hermes bags are from haters they are jealous and miserable. I'm a no Cardi b or sweetie fan but I agree with them. I want a birkin bag myself.....one day. You are beautiful,great video.

[@girlabee]

Thanks so much for your thoughts! I agree--you should be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor in any way you want. Thank you for watching 😊

[@kkidd1108]

Love your PHD gift...great video!

[@girlabee]

Thank you!

[@rhodabaga382]

I think if you want a birkin and can afford it why not get it?😍I think the underlying message from Saweetie was that your man should be able to afford the things that you really like and want. So in her case, she likes birkins and wants her man buy her those 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@girlabee]

Well I certainly agree that your partner should treat you well and spoil you if they have the means!

[@rhodabaga382]

@@girlabee Agreed, love your channel♥️

[@violettevbunni9508]

💜💜💜💜💜

[@Dandelion_881]

Not fond of Saweetie’s comment.

[@mariaespinosa9898]

Love you! Always watching. I love the look of burkins. I really don't think that if anyone wants one and can afford it. Go for it! Who cares what anyone says.

[@girlabee]

Thank you for watching, Maria!! 😊

[@evas1mom]

Yeay you’re back!!! Ok, watching now:) brb

[@baegirln3375]

How do you go on about buying it

[@girlabee]

Check out my video about how I got my birkins! There are multiple ways of trying to get one, but nothing is guaranteed with Hermes.

[@SuperNirmalraj]

I think it’s your 3rd point ,it’s someone who want to show they have the money , i wonder if all the small branding was taken away ,how many would buy them , I am loving very minimal bags

[@girlabee]

I wonder too! There has to be a reason it's always the birkin--because it's so identifiable as Hermes. Other Hermes bags that don't have the same branding are never really the center of these conversations.

[@Wdxjkb]

Birkin does not represent for exclusive women in high society or good taste anymore. Now, it is more about money. It really depends who carrying the bag. One time I was in the airport business club lounge, I a saw a lady in 40s neat hair and neutral outfit carried birkin. I thought she was sophisticated and educated rich. Hence, when I encounter a young girl (20-30s) with birkin, My impressing being the woman got a fake birkin or she must be a really expensive hooker or has daddy got a lots of money selling donuts. I (personally) think Birkin is not a bag for youth.

[@girlabee]

hahaha I definitely used to agree that birkin bags looked better on older women.