In previous eras of internet culture, mockery of the rich and famous was usually relegated to far-left forums. But as 2025 begins, ridiculing the rich appears to have gone mainstream.

Fashionistas who’ve long lusted after Hermès exclusive and ultra-expensive Birkin handbag got a pre-holiday treat thanks to Walmart.com. It offered a reasonably close Birkin facsimile bag – dubbed a “Wirkin” on social media for the “working class Birkin” or “Walmart Birkin” – priced around $100, compared to the $10,000 and up for the real thing.

While authentic Birkin bags are estimated to range from $9,000 - $500,000, the "Walmart Birkin" is less than $100.

Walmart’s $78 “Wirkin” dupe redefines luxury, sparking debates on inclusivity, exclusivity, and aspiration as social media fuels this cultural and fashion shift.

The hottest accessory of the holiday season is elusive yet attainable, affordable yet hard to find, and has a name that demonstrates its dichotomous nature. It’s the Walmart “Birkin” bag.

An inexpensive knockoff of the Birkin bag, an exclusive, extremely sought-after leather handbag by luxury brand Hermès that can sell for more than $400,000 US has launched a rousing debate online about fashion accessibility and copycat ethics.

Why would you want a certified fake when you can afford a great array of pricey-appearing bags with the same limited budget?