The Birkin Isn’t the Only Power Bag
What to Buy Instead of a Birkin (If You Actually Care About Style)
The Birkin is one of the most recognisable handbags in the world.
Once incredibly exclusive, it’s now something I see everywhere, real, fake, borrowed, or aspirational.
And this might be controversial, but unless I was a multimillionaire, I wouldn’t even consider buying one.
Not because it isn’t beautiful because it is.
But because for me, the Birkin no longer says style.
When Aspiration Replaces Identity
The Birkin has become less about craftsmanship or personal taste and more about status signalling. It often feels like something people aspire to own rather than something they’ve chosen because it reflects who they are.
Yes, in some cases, it can be a solid investment.
But I see far more women chasing the idea of the bag instead of building a wardrobe or a financial life that actually supports them.
For me, style has always been about intention.
And intention gets lost when everyone is aiming for the same symbol.
Why I Think Accessories Matter So Much
Your handbag is one of the strongest expressions of your personal style. It’s a daily companion. It’s visible. It speaks before you do.
And this is where the Birkin falls short for me.
It’s elegant. It’s well-made.
But it’s also very… samey.
There’s no real design language beyond “I own a Birkin.”
The individuality tends to come from the woman carrying it, not the bag itself.
I believe your accessories should do more than signal wealth.
They should say something about you.
Why I’d Choose Multiple Beautiful Bags Instead
For the price of one Birkin, you could own:
several impeccably made bags
in different sizes
for different moments
that reflect your style, lifestyle, and personality
That’s far more powerful and far more interesting than owning one bag everyone recognises.
Especially if you love fashion, styling, and expressing yourself through the details.
Beautiful Bags That Feel Personal (And Cost a Fraction of the Price)
Below are some brands I genuinely love. Bags that feel thoughtful, stylish, and considered. These are pieces that elevate an outfit and let your personal style lead, not the logo.
(I’ll be focussing on work bags for this.)
Radley
I haven’t ever owned Radley as a brand, but while searching for a new bag, this one caught my eye and it’s clear Radley has gone through a major rebrand. I’ve since purchased this particular style myself, and I absolutely love it. It’s spacious enough to fit a laptop and has multiple pockets, which makes it both practical and stylish. The silhouette is sleek, and the colour is truly chef’s kiss.
With a wardrobe built around darker tones like burgundy and khaki, this bag effortlessly elevates every outfit. Radley also has so many other gorgeous bags on their website that I’d highly recommend taking a look at.
De Mellier
This bag has been on my radar for a while. I love the structure and simplicity, it feels considered without trying too hard. It can be worn over the shoulder or softly scrunched and carried in the hand, which gives it that effortless, cool feel. I especially love how it’s being styled right now: paired with a black monochromatic look for a sharp, confident finish, or used to contrast a lighter outfit for balance and interest.
Mietis
This is one of those staple bags that never lets you down. Even when you’re rushing out the door or not feeling your best, it still makes you feel pulled together.
Charles & Keith
This brand is refreshingly affordable, and burgundy remains a timeless choice. While it’s trending right now, it’s a colour that never really goes out of style.
The Bottom Line
There’s nothing wrong with a Birkin.
But owning one doesn’t equal style.
Style comes from knowing yourself, making intentional choices, and using pieces, especially accessories, to express who you are.
If you want a handbag that actually reflects your taste, your life, and your confidence, there are far more interesting options out there.
And I’ll choose that every time.
