'Walkinbag' Popular at Walmart
A bag resembling the luxury brand Herm?s' Birkin bag has been released at Walmart in the United States, sparking a sensation.
On the 30th (local time), CNN reported, "The Walmart version of the Herm?s Birkin bag is dominating online," adding, "Consumers seeking an alternative to luxury goods have flocked to Walmart's 'Workin Bag,' which closely resembles the Birkin bag." 'Workin Bag' is a portmanteau of Walmart and Herm?s Birkin bag.
The bag, sold online by Walmart starting at $78 (approximately 110,000 KRW), has gained popularity on social media and is currently sold out. The media analyzed, "Luxury brands like Herm?s still attract consumer interest, but due to the price, most people cannot afford to purchase them," and "Consumers enjoy indulging in affordable yet high-quality replicas."
The popularity of the 'Workin Bag' has been further boosted by fashion influencers. In fact, searching the hashtag '#walmartbirkin' on social media platforms like TikTok reveals numerous unboxing videos and purchase reviews. While consumers worldwide are buying inexpensive imitations thanks to convenient online shopping and low shipping costs, fashion influencers have ignited the Workin Bag craze through social media.
Notably, the Herm?s Birkin bag is handcrafted by a single artisan, taking up to 40 hours to complete. Its price usually starts at $9,000 (approximately 13.25 million KRW) and can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars with premiums. Additionally, purchasing a Birkin bag often requires buying other Herm?s products, creating a high barrier to purchase. In contrast, Walmart's Workin Bag comes in various sizes and colors and can be bought online for the affordable price of $78, attracting consumer interest.
CNN analyzed that this phenomenon is related to 'dupe culture.' A 'dupe' is a cheap replica of an expensive brand product, offering an affordable alternative without compromising on quality compared to high-end brands. CNN stated, "Herm?s is not the only brand being replicated," noting that "Stanley tumblers and Lululemon leggings also compete with inexpensive similar products." They added, "In recent years, dupe products, which are cheaper alternatives to famous brands, have received more attention online."
Meanwhile, the Birkin bag is a representative high-end bag from Herm?s named after Jane Birkin, a famous British singer and actress. It is known that to purchase one, customers must put their names on a waiting list and wait for a long time.
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