“Is it really impossible to buy a Birkin?”
—This question has become noticeably more common in recent years.
On social media, you’ll often hear things like, “You have to buy other items first to be offered a Birkin,” or “I was introduced to one after spending several million yen in a year.” Rumors like these are everywhere.
However, in reality, there are no clear-cut rules. Instead, many people feel there’s an invisible line separating those who can buy a Birkin from those who can’t.
In this article, we’ll explore the background and structure behind the question: “Why is the Birkin so hard to buy?” We’ll also take a close look at the real actions of people who have actually acquired one, as well as practical first steps beginners can take.
For anyone wondering, “Do I really have a chance?” — this piece aims to reveal the current reality of Hermès.
Even those who aren’t familiar with Hermès have likely heard the phrase, “You can’t buy a Birkin.”
The Birkin is spoken of as something truly special — but why is it so difficult to obtain?
It’s not just about the high price. In truth, a combination of factors makes it so elusive: limited supply, a unique sales approach, and the brand’s emphasis on relationships with customers.
In this section, we’ll break down the reasons behind why the Birkin has earned its reputation as a “phantom bag,” in a way that’s easy for beginners to understand.
One of the most fundamental reasons the Birkin is said to be “unbuyable” is its overwhelming popularity and global demand.
It’s a bag desired by wealthy individuals, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts all over the world. Especially for the classic combinations — like size 25 in Gold, Etoupe, or Black — there are always people waiting somewhere. It’s only natural that supply can’t keep up.
With admiration fueled by social media and influencer posts, more and more people are engaging in what’s called “Elpat”(Hermès store-hopping), both domestically and internationally. As a result, it’s becoming even harder for first-time visitors to be offered one, further reinforcing the bag’s exclusivity.
Each Hermès Birkin bag is handcrafted by a highly skilled artisan. There is no mass production or factory-style assembly line—instead, each bag takes more than 20 hours to create.
Because of this meticulous process and the limited number of artisans and workshop capacity, the number of bags that can be produced annually is naturally capped. Even if demand increases, Hermès cannot simply “ramp up production.” This makes the supply structurally limited.
Additionally, while popular leathers like Togo or Epsom are regularly used, rarer materials such as crocodile or lizard skins are even more scarce. The limited availability of these exotic leathers means that the number of pieces produced in these materials is even smaller.
Unlike typical “first-come, first-served” or lottery-based sales methods, Hermès operates on a selective sales model built on a relationship of trust between the brand and the customer.
This is because Hermès does not prioritize sales volume alone. Instead, they aim to offer products to those who understand the value of the brand and who will use the items with long-term care and appreciation.
As a result, it’s extremely rare for a first-time visitor to walk in and be offered a Birkin. More often than not, previous purchase history and one’s relationship with the store influence whether they’ll be shown the bag.
Of course, this is not an official or written rule. However, according to many accounts from the field, a customer’s understanding of the Hermès philosophy and the depth of their relationship with the brand often play a key role in whether they are offered a Birkin.
At times, Hermès offers “private introductions” or “private consultations” for certain clients. This means the store may choose to discreetly inform a preferred customer about an incoming Birkin or invite them to view it in a private room during a store visit.
These arrangements are not available to just anyone—they’re reserved for clients whom the store or sales associate has identified as particularly trustworthy or aligned with the brand’s values. In some cases, a customer who previously purchased items like coats or shoes was later introduced to a Birkin.
Naturally, this doesn’t mean “Buy X and you’ll get a Birkin.” There’s no official rule like that. But in practice, customers who have built a relationship of trust with Hermès are often prioritized for such special opportunities—a key insight for anyone hoping to eventually purchase a Birkin.
“If I keep doing Elpat, will I eventually find a Birkin?”
“Is it true that you lose your chance if you don’t decide within 30 minutes?”
When it comes to buying from Hermès, there are countless so-called “rules” that sound almost like urban legends.
Even though Hermès has never officially published such guidelines, many people who successfully purchased a Birkin claim to have felt these rules in action firsthand.
That said, simply following these rumors doesn’t guarantee results. What worked for one person may not work for another.
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at how much truth lies behind these whispers—and what kinds of actions people who actually secured a Birkin were taking, based on real, firsthand experiences.
You may have heard the rumor: “If you don’t decide to buy a Birkin within 30 minutes, you’ll lose your chance.” This so-called “30-minute rule” has circulated widely.
While Hermès has never officially acknowledged any such rule, many buyers have shared real experiences that hint at it. Some say, “I was browsing the store for a while, and then a Birkin was brought out,” or “When I immediately expressed my intent to purchase, they offered it to me.”
On the flip side, others recall moments like, “While I was hesitating, it was offered to another customer,” or *“I was told, ‘We’re not offering any today.’”
These stories show that timing and decisiveness can play a critical role in the store experience.
Even if the “30-minute” number isn’t set in stone, it’s clear that showing a strong and immediate willingness to purchase can sometimes open doors.
“Elpat” is short for “Hermès Patrol” — the practice of regularly visiting Hermès stores to check for new arrivals and stock availability.
Among those seeking Birkins, the belief that “frequent visits increase your chances” is almost a given. In fact, many share stories like, “I went every day and finally got offered one in the third month,” or “I randomly stopped by while traveling and found one that day.” In some cases, luck and timing aligned to create opportunity.
However, it’s important to note that simply visiting repeatedly doesn’t guarantee success. Many say that what really mattered was the relationship and rapport they built with store staff. In other words, “how” you show up is often more important than “how often.”
Whether or not you're offered a Birkin often comes down to personal relationships more than fixed rules.
For example, some have said, “I was offered a Birkin in Osaka, but got no response at all from a store in another city,” or “Once my sales associate changed, things went much more smoothly.”
Each staff member has their own criteria for deciding who they feel comfortable offering a Birkin to. As a result, these decisions can vary widely based on individual judgment.
In fact, if you visit without an assigned sales associate, you may not even be told about stock availability. That’s why building a consistent relationship through regular visits is often the fastest path.
At Hermès, the “when, to whom, and what” of each product offer is carefully controlled—and rather than focusing solely on your “buying power,” the brand tends to prioritize whether you bring the right atmosphere and brand alignment into the interaction.
“Why was that person offered a Birkin, but I wasn’t?”
When repeated visits (Elpat) don’t bring results, such doubts and frustrations often arise.
Those who have been introduced to a Birkin don’t seem to share simple reasons like “they have a high income” or “they have special connections.”
Instead, there appears to be a certain commonality—a particular vibe or presence they share.
In this section, we’ll focus on the behaviors and attitudes of those who have successfully been offered a Birkin, highlighting points that even beginners can start paying attention to today.
Understanding the perspectives and mindset common to those who are introduced to Birkins could be the key to taking your next step.
You often hear from Hermès enthusiasts things like, “I was introduced to a Birkin after buying a Picotin,” or “A Birkin appeared after I placed a reservation for a watch.”
Hermès does not officially have any sales conditions such as, “If you buy XX, you’ll get a Birkin.”
However, in practice, there are many cases where customers were introduced to a Birkin after purchasing several other items.
Especially common are stories where people who selected high-priced items closely tied to the brand’s world—such as bags like the Picotin or Garden Party, shoes, watches, or coats—were later offered a Birkin.
Of course, this doesn’t mean “if you buy this, you will get a Birkin.” Rather, it reflects that the customer’s understanding of the brand and ongoing relationship was recognized by the sales team, and the timing happened to align.
Some buyers say that mentioning their upcoming birthday was the trigger for being introduced to a Birkin around that time.
Of course, Hermès does not manage sales based on customers’ birthdays. However, communicating a clear purpose—such as “I’m looking for something special for this important day”—may leave a stronger impression on the store staff.
In fact, there are cases where conversations naturally turned to birthdays, followed by detailed inquiries about the desired model.
Sharing specific wishes and timing—like “I want this model by such-and-such month”—can sometimes become the very reason you get introduced to a Birkin. This is an important point to keep in mind.
Some people feel that what they wore and the vibe they gave off influenced their chance to be offered a Birkin.
Hermès staff often look for whether a customer naturally fits into a luxury environment—such as a high-end hotel lobby or restaurant—and if they show an understanding and comfort with luxury brands.
It’s not necessary to be dressed head-to-toe in designer labels. Rather, trust often builds from everyday behaviors: how you carry yourself, the tone of your conversation, and the care you show when handling items.
Creating an atmosphere that makes staff feel, “I can confidently introduce this person” can be the crucial first step toward purchasing a Birkin.
Many people feel hesitant to immediately ask for a Birkin or don’t know where to start.
In fact, it’s extremely rare for Hermès to introduce highly sought-after items like the Birkin on a first visit. However, by steadily building a relationship and gradually earning trust, the chance to be offered one may eventually come.
In this chapter, we’ll introduce three initial steps for those starting to build their connection with Hermès. We hope these tips help you take your next step naturally and authentically.
A realistic first step in building a connection with Hermès is to start with items other than the Birkin.
In fact, many Birkin buyers say things like, “I was first introduced to the Picotin or Garden Party and bought one,” or “After purchasing shoes, coats, or watches, I was later introduced to a Birkin.”
Through these items, customers experience Hermès’s world and values, which naturally leads to building trust.
While rumors on social media suggest that “you have to buy other items to get a Birkin,” Hermès has officially denied engaging in any such bundled sales practices (WWD JAPAN, June 2024).
In other words, purchasing other products is not a strict condition; rather, it’s the careful process of building a relationship with the brand that makes customers “someone they want to introduce the Birkin to,” which in turn creates opportunities.
It’s understandable to want to say, “I’d like to see any Birkin you have.”
However, many who have actually been introduced to a Birkin shared specific requests like, “I want a Birkin 25 in Gold with gold hardware,” or “Please show me the new colors when they arrive.”
This doesn’t mean being demanding. From the sales associate’s perspective, clearly stating your preferences helps them gauge whether you genuinely want that model, which is often seen positively.
Additionally, mentioning timing or background, such as, “My birthday is in [month], so I’d be happy if the model I want is available around then,” makes it easier for the store to propose options.
Of course, clearly expressing your wishes doesn’t guarantee an introduction. But having a definite preference leaves a stronger impression than vague interest.
Some believe, “If I go every day, eventually a Birkin will be offered,” and repeatedly visit stores. However, simply the number of visits doesn’t directly lead to results.
In fact, many who were introduced to a Birkin say they focused more on enjoying natural conversations with staff and sharing their genuine interest and preferences through questions about products.
Others mention that “It made a better impression to be subtle and composed rather than coming across as ‘I’m here to buy!’” Knowing the brand well and engaging politely creates the right atmosphere that resonates with the sales team.
Without being overly nervous, conveying a comfortable, confident presence through your conversation and behavior can become the very reason staff feel, “I can confidently offer this person a Birkin.”
You may visit Hermès stores repeatedly but still struggle to come across a Birkin.
At such times, it’s worth pausing to reflect on your own behavior and words.
While owning a Birkin doesn’t mean you’re a “specially chosen” person, small remarks or how you interact at the store can significantly influence what happens next.
In this chapter, based on real purchase experiences, we highlight behaviors that might have unintentionally pushed opportunities away.
These are important points to be aware of if you want to close the distance to owning a Birkin.
After persistently visiting stores hoping for a Birkin, you finally get introduced to one.
But what if it’s not the size or color you were hoping for? What would you do?
A common reaction is, “Since it’s a rare opportunity, I’ll buy it anyway.”
At first glance, this might seem like a smart move to keep the door open for future chances. However, it can sometimes actually delay your path to the “ideal” Birkin.
In fact, some buyers share experiences such as, “I declined a different model that day, and immediately afterward, the Birkin I really wanted was offered,” or “I was advised that if I had a preferred model, I didn’t need to force myself to buy another bag.”
The sales team wants to understand exactly what you truly need.
Therefore, rather than rushing to buy on the spot, clearly expressing what you want can build trust and lead to better opportunities.
It’s natural to want to ask at Hermès, “Do you have any Birkins?”
However, the timing and manner of this question matter—a poorly timed or blunt question can actually push chances away.
Sales associates carefully observe customers’ interests and attitudes.
If you ask “Do you have Birkins?” right away during your first visit, it might give the impression that you’re only interested in Birkins or even raise suspicions of resale intentions.
Many who have been introduced to Birkins say they first browsed other items slowly, enjoyed natural conversations with staff, and then mentioned their preferences in a casual, gentle way—like, “I like this size and color; if anything comes in, please let me know.”
Expressing your desire is important, but it requires a foundation of trust. Take your time and communicate naturally.
Hermès is not just a luxury brand—they have a philosophy of delivering lasting value that customers will cherish for a long time.
Because of this, the sales team pays close attention to how seriously a customer approaches the Birkin and how carefully they intend to treat it.
If a customer seems unclear or indifferent—offering to buy “just because”—the staff may become cautious.
There are cases where customers showed vague reactions like, “I just want to take a look,” after being introduced to a Birkin, and then received no further offers.
Conversely, those who naturally share reasons like, “I love this model because…,” or “I’m also attracted to this other color because…,” have gained staff trust and were invited again.
Respecting the brand’s values and honestly communicating how you want to relate to the Birkin as part of your own style could be a significant step toward being introduced.
No matter how much preparation you make or how well you build trust, it’s not uncommon to face the reality of “not encountering a Birkin.”
Stock availability and sales situations vary by store, and even when all conditions align, if the inventory isn’t there at that moment, you simply can’t find one.
But that doesn’t mean you have to give up.
Nowadays, besides official boutiques, there are trusted specialty stores where you can search for Birkins, expanding your options and increasing your chances of finding a model close to your ideal.
In this chapter, we introduce these alternative routes to get closer to a Birkin—such as “free Birkins” (non-official channels), specialty shops, and the secondhand market—along with their benefits and points to watch out for.
▶︎For those who want to know market prices before searching for their ideal model：What is the price of a Birkin? [2025 Latest] Detailed price guide by size and material, including retail prices.
Although extremely rare, there are occasions when a Birkin is displayed as a “free” item in Hermès stores—meaning it is not reserved for a specific customer but is available for purchase by anyone present.
However, it is extremely uncommon for standard Birkins made from classic leathers like Togo or Epsom to be offered as free items. The reality is that such opportunities are overwhelmingly rare.
On the other hand, some say that high-priced Birkins made from exotic leathers such as crocodile are comparatively more frequently offered as free items.
Of course, encountering these “free Birkins” is purely a matter of chance. If interested, it can be worthwhile to visit stores occasionally and check availability without overdoing it.
If you find it difficult to encounter your preferred Birkin at official boutiques but really want a specific color or size, a practical option is to look at specialized resale shops or consignment stores that focus on Hermès.
Trusted specialty stores usually stock thoroughly authenticated Birkins, with relatively good availability of popular colors and sizes. They offer a wide selection ranging from nearly new condition to vintage pieces with varying prices and states.
Moreover, many provide reassurance before purchase by allowing you to check inventory online, receive restock alerts via LINE, and handle items in-store.
While this experience differs from buying at an official store, it is an attractive and efficient way to get closer to the Birkin you want without spending excessive time or effort.
Many assume “secondhand means compromise,” but this does not necessarily apply to Birkins.
Hermès Birkins’ market value varies greatly depending on material, color, stamping, and condition—meaning the ideal Birkin may be found precisely in the secondhand market.
For example, highly sought-after combinations like Gold with gold hardware, well-maintained Birkin 25s, or discontinued colors—often hard to find at official boutiques—can sometimes be unexpectedly available secondhand.
Some models even fetch premiums above retail prices, while others may be bargains listed below market value.
What matters most is not simply that “secondhand means a lower price,” but whether it is the shortest and most reliable route to the model you truly desire.
Choosing pieces carefully authenticated by expert stores will let you make a satisfying, uncompromised decision.
The Birkin is not just a “luxury bag.”
Because it has maintained its value over many years—and in fact, its market price has generally risen over time—it is increasingly viewed from an investment perspective as well.
In recent years especially, since it is assumed that you cannot easily buy one when you want and cannot obtain a brand-new one, prices in the secondhand market tend to remain stable. More and more people see purchasing a Birkin not as a loss, but as preserving and even increasing their asset’s value.
In this chapter, we delve into why the Birkin is considered to have asset value, which models attract the most attention, and explore this other appealing aspect of the Birkin with a forward-looking perspective beyond just the purchase.
Among Birkins, the 25-size models in gold-tone colors—particularly Gold leather with gold hardware—continue to enjoy stable popularity and high appraisals in the secondhand market.
This combination is elegant yet easy to pair with casual styles, making it highly desirable as both a “first Birkin” and a “replacement purchase” regardless of age or style.
As a result, the number of these models circulating secondhand remains limited, and it is not uncommon for brand-new, unused pieces to sell at prices exceeding the retail price.
Furthermore, the 25 size is considered “small and charming, fitting well with modern styling,” attracting high attention from overseas celebrities and social media. Given the high demand but limited supply, it is likely to continue maintaining its asset value.
If you are looking for a model that offers both “joy of use” and “peace of mind in ownership,” starting with this size and color combination is definitely worth considering.
In contrast to the widely sought-after classic models, Birkin bags made from exotic leathers such as crocodile, as well as some ultra-high-priced models, are sometimes reported to be offered relatively more often as “free” stock in stores.
There are multiple accounts of customers unexpectedly being informed at the store, for example, “We do have crocodile Birkins available.”
One possible reason behind this is that due to the very high price range and the limited customer base who can purchase them, these models may be intentionally displayed in-store for immediate purchase.
Of course, these models are not shown to everyone. Rather, sales associates may present them at their discretion only to customers deemed likely to make an on-the-spot purchase.
Because of their rarity and high price, exotic leather Birkins tend to have stable asset value and are said to have the potential for long-term appreciation.
Unexpected encounters with such special pieces can happen depending on timing, so they are definitely worth considering as a “special investment.”
Recently, more people select Birkins not just as a “lifetime possession” but also considering future resale or inheritance.
For example, some Birkins purchased in the past have actually increased in value by millions of yen over time, leading many to recognize anew the worth of owning one.
They are also chosen as meaningful gifts to loved ones on anniversaries or milestones, and like jewelry and watches, are increasingly viewed as items combining both asset value and emotional story.
Especially the well-maintained 25 size and popular colorways enjoy stable evaluation in the secondhand market, offering the attractive balance of “practical use and investment value.”
Because they can remain assets even as one’s life stage changes, Birkins are increasingly chosen as gifts for family members or inheritance items—just like fine jewelry and watches.
▶︎For an in-depth explanation of why prices remain strong in the secondhand market：[2025 Edition] Birkin 25 Resale Prices and Popular Color Market Trends | Tips for High Appraisals
“I dream of buying at an official Hermès store, but realistically, chances seem slim.”
“I absolutely want a Gold Birkin 25 right now.”
For those feelings, consider the trusted specialty stores as a practical option.
At XIAOMA, we offer a wide selection of Hermès bags, including Birkins, all carefully authenticated one by one by experienced appraisers. You can choose the model that best suits you from this carefully vetted collection.
This section introduces the安心 (peace of mind) factors when purchasing at XIAOMA and the unique benefits that differ from official boutiques.
Peace of Mind from Checking the Actual Product at Our Stores
Because a Birkin is a high-value item, many want to see and handle it carefully before deciding.
XIAOMA’s physical stores offer this fitting experience, fulfilling that desire.
While buying from an official store has its specialness and trust, some customers feel pressure from hearing rumors like the “30-minute rule,” worrying they might need to decide immediately once introduced to a Birkin.
Especially between Birkin sizes 25 and 30, usability and overall impression differ greatly, so many customers want to take their time comparing sizes.
At XIAOMA stores in Ginza, Umeda, Hong Kong, and Singapore, you can compare various models including both Birkin 25 and 30 sizes. You can actually hold the bags, try them in front of mirrors, consult with staff, and take your time to make a fully informed decision.
For those who appreciate the rarity of official boutiques but want to calmly choose the best Birkin for themselves, XIAOMA’s in-store experience offers another and trusted choice.
▶︎See the list of XIAOMA stores here
At XIAOMA, every product undergoes a thorough quality check based on our own strict standards.
Our veteran appraisers, some with over 30 years of experience and deep expertise in Hermès, carefully examine materials, specifications, and overall condition, evaluating each item meticulously.
We clearly display condition rankings and provide detailed photos showing any scratches or signs of use.
For customers who feel uneasy without seeing the actual product, we prioritize providing all the information needed to choose with confidence.
Though this is a purchase route different from official boutiques, XIAOMA’s specialized and transparent inspection system offers decisive reassurance when making your purchase.
“I want this specific color of Birkin.”
“If I ever find the model I’m looking for, I must have it.”
Even with these wishes, desired stock isn’t always available in stores or online.
With XIAOMA, you can rest assured.
In addition to our Ginza and Osaka stores, we leverage unique sales channels and networks extending to Hong Kong, Singapore, and beyond to help find stock close to your preferences.
Because we maintain reliable supply routes both domestically and internationally, it’s not uncommon for customers to say, “I couldn’t find it anywhere else, but I found it at XIAOMA.”
For those unwilling to compromise on their ideal Birkin, this flexible approach is one of the key reasons to choose XIAOMA.
When researching how to buy a Birkin, many rumors and questions arise. Here, based on popular search keywords and common real experiences, we provide balanced answers incorporating Hermès’ official stance and buyers’ voices. Whether you are aiming for your first Birkin or are already “Hermès patrolling,” we hope to clear up some uncertainties.
Hermès does not have clear “no-go” rules, but the brand emphasizes building a trusting relationship with customers.
If the sales staff sense that a customer is only interested in the Birkin itself or suspects resale intentions, they may be more cautious, making introductions less likely.
What matters more than purchase amount is “understanding the brand and cultivating a respectful relationship.”
It is extremely rare for standard leather and color Birkins to be openly available in stores.
However, exotic materials like crocodile or other high-priced models sometimes are offered in this way.
Still, this depends greatly on timing and store atmosphere, so it’s best to think of it as “lucky if it happens.”
Some regions or countries reportedly have purchase limits.
But in Japan, no clear official restriction has been announced, and policies seem to vary by store and staff.
Consulting a trusted sales associate is the most reliable approach.
Hermès officially does not require purchasing other items before buying a Birkin.
However, many customers report that after buying other bags like Picotin, or items like clothing, shoes, and watches, they were eventually introduced to a Birkin.
This suggests that a certain purchase history can help build trust, but more important is the sincerity and respectful relationship with the brand, rather than the amount spent.
Hermès values the craftsmanship and wishes to deliver to people who truly appreciate and cherish the product.
Therefore, “who” the product is sold to matters more than “how much” is purchased, making trust with the official store important.
Hermès has no official stance on buying from resale markets, and whether you should disclose this to your sales associate depends on your relationship and their perspective.
Some customers choose not to mention resale purchases or avoid bringing those items to the store. Others say that buying their ideal Birkin on resale eased their mindset and allowed them to visit stores more comfortably.
The resale market offers the advantage of securing the exact model you want. For those who want to build their Hermès relationship at their own pace, purchasing from resale is a smart and flexible option.
