There are so many extraordinary things in this life that money simply cannot buy. Equally, there are many rather extraordinary things that can only be yours after money has been exchanged. Sadly, a Birkin bag falls into the latter category.
Topping the wish lists of fashion people across the globe, there may be no other material item more highly coveted than the inimitable Hermès Birkin handbag, nor harder to get your hands on. Named after French style icon Jane Birkin, the bag is widely regarded as one of the classiest on the market, and one of the most exclusive. While the resale of Birkin bags is less strict (though you can still expect to pay a premium), buying one new is a lengthy process with sales assistants Hermès standing between you and your £20k purchase. If you’re lucky enough to be approved to buy one (yes, you can be refused), there’s no guarantee said sales assistant will offer you the colour you’ve asked for either—I’ve heard of people asking to purchase the black colourway only to be presented with a pink option at the checkout. Thus only adding to the Birkin legend.
While the closest many of us will get to a Birkin bag is adding them to our vision boards (I, for one, fall into this category), there is a group of fortunate fashion devotees who count themselves as owners of the exclusive arm candy. Of that group, there is a subset of Birkin owners that the internet has fondly dubbed “Birkin moms”.
Being a Birkin mom goes beyond owning a Birkin bag. It’s the confidence of knowing you own something that everybody else wants, and with that disposition, you carry yourself differently. With an affluence that announces itself without having to say a peep, being a Birkin mom is a full-time style commitment. You need to look glossy 24/7. Known for their chic outfits and refined taste—think Kelly Rutherford’s Lily van der Woodsen, or ski-trial era Gwyneth Paltrow—Birkins might be reserved for a lucky few, but their style needn’t be… Whilst Birkin owners can likely treat themselves to a wardrobe on-par with the luxury bag, the rest of us have some corners to cut. So, I’ve taken it upon myself to glean what I can about the Birkin mom aesthetic and lay down how to get the look, no matter your budget. Read on to find out exactly what I discovered.
Style Notes: A true Birkin mom understands the nuances of fabrics and the difference that they can make on an outfit as a whole. In the winter you’ll catch her bundled up in cashmere and alpaca. In the summertime, you’ll find her clothed in light linens and soft cotton.
This supremely soft cardigan also comes in cream and black.
Wool trousers are a wardrobe investment you’ll come back to year after year.
Elevate your evening look and upgrade to a cashmere top this winter.
Style Notes: A well-tailored ensemble can set your look apart, and Birkin moms know this. Think well-cut trousers, neat shoulders and considered details, and never be afraid of a trip to the tailors to give a new buy the finesse it deserves.
The grey colour trend has been ramping up this winter.
Style with the matching set or wear on its won with jeans.
Pinstripe trousers are a timeless wardrobe addition.
Style Notes: Birkin mom’s know that when it comes to jewellery, more is more. Stacked rings and layered bangles are a day-to-day look you should embrace wholeheartedly
This dramatic necklace looks more expensive than it is.
Elevate your ring stack with this unique design.
Layered bracelets are back for 2024.
Style Notes: The key to an excellent, expensive-looking outfit lies in the layers. To ensure that your layered outfit looks fresh and comfortable opt for fine knits or soft fabrics and throw in a tailored element to elevate the look.
This long-ling structured coat is at the top of my wishlist.
I’ll always come back to With Nothing Underneath for their excellent button downs.
The outfit elevating detail you didn’t know you needed.
Style Notes: A refined colour pallet is the key to sophisticated styling. Opt for elegant neutrals such as beige, black and greys, and throw in decadent shades such as burgundy or emerald to enhance your outfit.
This wool-blend coat is a favourite within the Who What Wear office.
Nothing screams decadence like a velvet maxi dress.
Bundle up in elevated knits this winter.
Style Notes: Whilst, let’s face it, we all truly long for a Birkin, the are a myriad of handbags on the market that can help you get the look. Recent months have seen top-hand bags dominate for their elegant silhouette, but a shoulder-strap bag can look just as chic when styled with the right outfit.
The timeless design and generous size makes this a staple in my wardrobe rotation.
The elegant lock details elevate this bag.
This deep berry shade is perfect for winter styling.
