Birkin bags cannot be predicted when they will be offered at official Hermès boutiques.
Because of this, some people say, “While I was still deciding between size 25 and 30, I ended up missing my chance to be offered one.”
In this article, we will organize information on “size variations,” “recommendations based on height and lifestyle,” and “popularity and market price,” and explain how to choose the right one without regrets.
Whether you’re waiting for an offer at a boutique or considering resale, it's best to determine your ideal Birkin size as early as possible.
There are four main Birkin sizes: 25, 30, 35, and 40.
The numbers refer to the bag’s width (in cm), and both storage capacity and visual impression vary significantly by size.
※ Sizes may slightly vary depending on model and year.
From this list, you can see that the larger the number, the greater the storage and presence. In the next section, let’s take a closer look at each size's characteristics and who it’s best suited for.
Birkins have very different impressions and uses depending on the size. Here, we explain the features and recommended users for sizes 25, 30, 35, and 40.
The smallest and most delicate of the major Birkin sizes is the Birkin 25.
Birkin 30 is the most classic and overwhelmingly popular among Japanese women.
Birkin 35 has a strong presence and excellent storage capacity.
The largest of the Birkin bags, also known as the “Travel Birkin,” is the Birkin 40.
If you choose the wrong size, you might feel it’s “too big” or “too small to use comfortably.”
Knowing your body type and intended use will help you maintain visual balance and make it more practical for daily use.
The compact 25cm width naturally suits smaller frames.
The 30 may appear slightly large, and for formal occasions, the 25 tends to provide better balance.
Birkin 30 is the most popular size in Japan.
It works well for both casual and formal use, and the size fits most women comfortably.
A great choice for a first Birkin.
The 35cm width fits A4 files and is practical.
For larger body types, it maintains good balance and is easy to use in business settings.
Also popular among male users.
Birkin 40 fits a laptop or a change of clothes.
Perfect for tall individuals or those planning to use it for travel or business trips.
It’s also rare and highly valued by collectors.
Birkin bags vary significantly in popularity and market value by size.
Here’s a summary of the retail prices and resale values for sizes 25, 30, 35, and 40.
※ The above resale prices are reference values as of 2025. Prices vary greatly depending on color, leather type, hardware, stamp, and accessories.
※ Retail prices are based on standard leather such as Togo (exotic leathers like crocodile are excluded).
The most popular and highly regarded for its asset value.
The most classic size in the Japanese market with plenty of inventory.
Less expensive than 25 or 30, but has a loyal following.
The most eye-catching and largest size, great for travel or business.
Because you can’t predict when Hermès will offer you a Birkin, it’s important to decide in advance, “This is my size.”
If you hesitate, you might miss a rare opportunity. Use the following as a reference to choose your ideal size.
You usually can’t compare different Birkin sizes side by side at official boutiques.
Some say, “I turned down an offer because I wasn’t sure if 25 or 30 was better, and the next offer never came.”
To avoid this kind of regret, it’s helpful to try out the actual sizes in advance.
At XIAOMA, you can view multiple Birkin sizes like 25, 30, and 35 all at once.
By trying them in front of a mirror, you can directly see which size suits you.
Hermès regularly revises its prices, and it’s not uncommon for the retail price to increase while you're waiting to be offered a bag.
If you want to “avoid price hikes” or “get your bag sooner,” one option is to find a compromise and purchase through the resale market.
Some worry, “If I buy through resale, will the staff at the boutique dislike me?”
However, the criteria for being offered a bag are based on a variety of factors, so purchasing through resale does not necessarily put you at a disadvantage.
In fact, clearly communicating your preferred size—based on your understanding of what suits you—can make things smoother for the associate as well.
Start by comparing sizes at a XIAOMA store to determine your preferred size before waiting for an official offer,
or consider purchasing through resale to avoid the risk of price increases.
Being able to choose between these two approaches is one of the biggest advantages of using XIAOMA.
▶︎ Check out Birkin bags in person at a XIAOMA store (Store List Here)
▶︎ View Birkin stock at the official XIAOMA online store
Birkin 25 is compact and more formal, with high investment value. It’s suitable for people who carry little or who are petite.
Birkin 30 is a versatile all-rounder, suitable for both work and casual settings, and is very popular in the Japanese market.
If you're unsure, many people go with the 30.
At Hermès, the items offered to customers may vary depending on the level of trust and purchase history.
There are rumors such as, “They rarely offer bags on a first visit,” or “Your relationship with the associate influences what you’re shown,” but these are general tendencies and should be understood as such.
It depends on your lifestyle. Use the following as a rough guideline:
Choosing a size that suits your body type and intended use is essential.
It depends on body type and use, but Birkin 35—large enough to fit A4 documents—is the most natural and popular choice.
If you need more capacity for travel or business trips, the Birkin 40 is also a popular option.
