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.

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.

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 iconic Hermès handbag comes at a high price-point if you can even get your hands on one. What happens if you can pick up something similar at Walmart?

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