The Row Margaux vs. Hermès Birkin: Complete Comparison

Introduction

In late 2023, something quiet happened in the luxury world. Fashion insiders began talking about The Row's Margaux bag as if it could finally compete with something many thought was unbeatable: the Hermès Birkin's 40-year reign as the ultimate luxury handbag.

The story was simple but powerful. Here was a bag with no big logo, no waiting list measured in years, and no price that would bankrupt you. Yet luxury lovers and celebrities were buying it. By 2024, the Margaux had become the year's "it bag." Today in 2025, resale data shows it is appreciating faster than many expected.

But let's be clear: the Margaux is not replacing the Birkin. Instead, it is offering a very different path for those who want luxury, value, and access without the extreme scarcity and extreme price of Hermès.

In this guide, we compare the Margaux and Birkin across price, resale value, design, investment potential, and real-world use. By the end, you will understand what each bag truly offers and which one makes sense for your life, budget, and investment plan.

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Quick Comparison Table

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The Row Margaux: The Emerging Star

Who Is The Row and the Margaux Bag?

The Row is a newer brand. Twin sisters Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen started it in 2006. The brand is not old or famous like Hermès. However, it quickly became known for clean design, perfect fit, and high-quality materials. The Row does not care about big logos or trends. Instead, it focuses on simple shapes and excellent build.

The Margaux bag was first created over a decade ago as a seasonal item. However, because so many people loved it, the brand kept it as a permanent style. By late 2023, the Margaux had become a quiet luxury star. Today, it is one of the most wanted new bags in fashion.

What makes it special? Here are the key features:

• No visible brand name or logo on the bag

• Clean, structured top handles

• Soft leather body with a curved, rounded shape

• Minimal metal details (just simple side straps)

• Four different sizes for different needs

This quiet approach is the whole idea. You own it; people who understand luxury already know what it is. Everyone else will simply see a very nice leather bag. As a result, it appeals to those who want status without shouting about it.

The Margaux: Size Options and How It Is Made

The Margaux comes in four sizes. Each size has a different purpose:

• Margaux 10 (~10" L × 7.25" H × 7" D): Small bag, good for evenings and essentials only

• Margaux 12 (~12.5" L × 9.25" H × 7" D): Daily wear, fits phone, wallet, keys, and lipstick

• Margaux 15 (~15.5" L × 10.75" H × 8.5" D): Work bag, spacious but still looks elegant

• Margaux 17 (~17" L × 12.5" H × 9.5" D): Travel bag or maximum room

Most people choose the 12 or 15. The 12 is perfect for everyday carry. The 15 gives you room for a small laptop or work papers plus personal items. Both sizes feel balanced and not too heavy.

Leather choices: The Margaux is made from soft saddle calfskin (most common), suede, or a canvas–leather blend. All types feel supple and smooth from the first day. There is no long "break-in" period like some other bags have.

How it is built:

• Canvas lining inside (strong and light)

• Zip and patch pockets for organization

• Moveable leather side straps

• Top handles that are rigid and comfortable to hold

Price in 2025

The Margaux is positioned as a premium but accessible luxury bag. These are the current prices:

• Margaux 10: ~4,000 USD

• Margaux 12: ~4,500 USD

• Margaux 15: ~5,090 USD

• Margaux 17: ~6,000–7,000 USD

Because the Margaux costs less than half a Birkin, many luxury lovers can afford it. This has made the bag very popular with a new, younger group of luxury buyers.

Resale Value and Investment

Here is where the Margaux has shocked many people.

2024–2025 resale data shows:

• Vestiaire Collective: Margaux bags sell for about 92% more than the original price (so a $5,000 Margaux resells for ~$9,700)

• Fashionphile: Reports show 126% appreciation on Margaux bags

• Overall trend: The Margaux typically resells for 100–110% of its retail price

This means the Margaux not only holds its value—it actually grows. This is rare for a newer bag from a brand without a long history.

Why is this happening? Several reasons stand out:

1. Limited supply on purpose: The Row makes fewer bags than demand.

2. Celebrity and insider love: Fashion experts and famous people want it; it is the "it bag" of 2024.

3. Excellent quality: The build is very good; buyers know it will last many years.

4. Reasonable price: At $5,000, more people can afford to buy used bags and keep them.

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Hermès Birkin: The Timeless Icon

Brand Heritage and How the Birkin Started

Hermès was founded in 1837. The brand started by making saddles for horses. Today, Hermès is one of the oldest and most respected names in luxury. The Birkin bag was created in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin. Since then, it has been the top status symbol in fashion.

The Birkin is made by hand in Hermès workshops in France. Each bag takes about 18–25 hours to create by skilled workers. The company uses only the finest leather, selected carefully. Families have used Birkins daily for 20+ years with minimal wear and tear.

For 40 years, the Birkin has barely changed. It is one of the very few bags that has never felt outdated or lost its appeal.

Birkin Sizes, Leather Types, and Metal Details

The Birkin comes in five main sizes:

• Birkin 25 (10" L × 8" H × 6" D): Small, better for formal events

• Birkin 30 (12" L × 8.5" H × 6.5" D): Most popular; good for everyday

• Birkin 35 (13.75" L × 9.5" H × 7" D): Travel and work

• Birkin 40 & 45: Larger sizes; rare; fewer people buy them

Leather types include:

• Togo: Textured leather, very tough, shows patina beautifully over time

• Clemence: Soft and smooth, less texture, subtle look

• Epsom: Very rigid, resists scratches, less natural feel

• Exotic skins: Crocodile, ostrich, alligator; extremely rare and very expensive

Metal hardware: Hermès offers gold (yellow), palladium (silver), and rose gold. The hardware is visible and iconic. The "H" clasp is instantly recognizable to anyone who knows luxury.

2025 Birkin Prices

Here is what a new Birkin costs as of May 2025 in the United States:

• Birkin 25 (Togo): $12,700

• Birkin 30 (Togo): $13,900

• Birkin 35 (Togo): $15,200

Hermès has raised prices every year. In May 2025 alone, prices went up 4.4–6.4% due to new tariffs.

To put this in perspective, a Birkin 30 cost $12,500 in 2019. In just six years, the price has grown about 11%.

Resale and Investment: The Secondary Market

This is where the Birkin shines as a true investment.

What happens on the secondhand market (2025):

• Average Birkin resells for 2.4 times the retail price

• A $13,900 Birkin 30 in standard Togo often resells for $33,000–$37,000 USD

• Rare colors and special materials reach $50,000 or higher

• Limited editions and exotic skins commonly exceed $100,000

Why do secondhand Birkins cost so much? Several factors:

1. Extreme scarcity at retail: Hermès controls supply carefully. Many customers wait 3–5+ years just to buy one.

2. More buyers than bags: There are always more people who want one than bags available.

3. Collectible status: Rare colors (like the limited "Himalaya" shade) are treated like art pieces.

4. Heritage and timelessness: The Birkin will never feel old or out of fashion; it is a true family heirloom.

So, while the Margaux appreciates to 110% of retail, the Birkin appreciates to 240% or much higher. Over ten years, that difference grows very large.

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Direct Comparison: Margaux vs. Birkin

Price and Money

Winner: The Row Margaux

The Margaux 15 at $5,090 is less than half the price of a Birkin 30 at $13,900. For many people, this alone makes the Margaux the more practical choice.

However, if you can afford the Birkin and hold it for 5–10 years, the secondhand market gain is far larger in total dollars. Therefore, the decision depends on your budget and timeline.

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Resale Value and Investment

Winner: Hermès Birkin (clearly)

• Birkin: Resells at ~240% of retail; a $13,900 bag becomes $33,000–$37,000

• Margaux: Resells at ~100–110% of retail; a $5,090 bag becomes $5,500–$5,600

In terms of percentage gain, both are good (240% vs. 110%). However, in terms of actual dollar gain, the Birkin wins by far. You make $19,000+ on a Birkin compared to $500–$600 on a Margaux.

Still, the Margaux is brand new and may increase over time as it gains collector status.

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Design and Quiet Luxury

Winner: Tie (they use different approaches)

• Margaux: No logo, minimal hardware, soft curves, very modern, feels understated even next to a Birkin

• Birkin: Classic shape, visible "H" clasp, iconic handles, timeless design, clearly a luxury bag to anyone who knows bags

If you want people to not see the luxury you are wearing, the Margaux wins. If you want a timeless classic that people have loved for 40 years, the Birkin wins.

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How Easy It Is to Buy

Winner: The Row Margaux

Getting a Margaux:

• Wait time: 6–12 months for some colors (some colors are in stock now)

• Where to buy: The Row boutiques, department stores, online stores

• No special system: You simply order or walk in

Getting a Birkin:

• Wait time: 3–5+ years at most Hermès stores (many places have longer waits)

• Where to buy: Hermès stores only (no other retailers)

• Requires relationship: You need a good relationship with a sales associate

• Must buy other items: Hermès often requires you to buy other products to build purchase history

• Hermès chooses: The store decides what color and size you get; you do not pick

The Margaux is far more accessible if you want a luxury bag soon.

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Space and What Fits

Winner: Margaux for room; Birkin for choices

• Margaux 15: 15.5" × 10.75" × 8.5"; very spacious

• Birkin 30: 12" × 8.5" × 6.5"; more compact but still good

The Margaux 15 is larger and holds more items. However, the Birkin offers five size options, so you can find the right fit. Most people choose Birkin 30 as the everyday size, which is noticeably smaller than the Margaux 15.

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Durability and How Long It Lasts

Winner: Hermès Birkin (but both are excellent)

Both bags are made by masters of their craft. However:

• Birkin: Made over 18–25 hours by hand-trained workers in Hermès French workshops. Leather is aged and chosen individually. Families have used Birkins daily for 20+ years with minimal wear.

• Margaux: Made by The Row (Italian makers). Very good quality, but not the same level of hand-craft as Hermès. Still, early owners report the Margaux wears beautifully and shows no major issues after 1–2 years of heavy use.

Both bags will last a lifetime with normal care. The Birkin simply has longer proof that this is true.

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Hardware and Look

Winner: Depends on what you like

• Margaux: Minimal hardware; no logos; pure, simple style

• Birkin: Iconic "H" clasp, visible hardware, makes a clear statement of luxury

If you love quiet, hidden luxury, the Margaux. If you love heritage symbols, the Birkin.

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Care and Maintenance

Winner: The Row Margaux

• Margaux: Basic leather care (light conditioning sometimes); no special needs

• Birkin: More delicate; do not overfill; do not set on dirty floors; rotate bags to prevent too much use; professional cleaning once a year for fine leathers

The Margaux is easier to maintain and more forgiving.

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Which Bag Should You Actually Buy?

Choose The Row Margaux if…

• You want luxury you can use today, not in 5 years

• You prefer quiet, minimal design over big logos

• You have a limited budget but still want quality

• You like the idea of owning a modern, emerging classic (the Margaux may become as famous as the Birkin one day)

• You want something you can use regularly without stress

• You value ease of purchase over extreme scarcity

The Margaux is the smart choice if you want a beautiful, well-made bag you can enjoy now and possibly sell at a gain later.

Choose The Hermès Birkin if…

• You see the bag as a long-term investment or family heirloom

• You want the ultimate status symbol in luxury (if that matters to you)

• You are willing to wait 3–5+ years to buy one

• You do not have tight budget limits and can pay $13,900+

• You love timeless heritage and 40+ years of proven demand

• You see the bag as a collectible first, functional tool second

The Birkin is the choice if you want the ultimate investment luxury bag and can afford both the high price and the long wait.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Margaux really the new Birkin?

Not quite. The Margaux has become a loved "it bag" and shows strong resale appreciation. However, it lacks the 40-year heritage, extreme scarcity, and secondhand market strength of the Birkin. It is more fair to say the Margaux is a strong alternative for those who want luxury without the Birkin's extreme price and wait. Over the next 10–20 years, the Margaux may build collector status, but we cannot know for certain yet.

Which bag is a better investment?

The Birkin—without question. It resells at 240% of retail compared to the Margaux at 100–110%. However, the Birkin requires a much larger upfront cost and a multi-year wait. If you can afford it and will wait, the Birkin's investment return is unmatched in the luxury bag world. The Margaux is a smaller but faster investment (you can actually use it while you own it).

Can I get a Margaux without waiting?

Usually, yes—depending on the color and size. Popular colors (camel, black) are sometimes in stock at major stores. Rare colors may have a 6–12 month wait. Compare this to the Birkin, which commonly has a 3–5 year wait. The Margaux is much more accessible.

How much does a Birkin cost in 2025?

A Birkin 30 in standard Togo leather costs $13,900 USD as of May 2025. A Birkin 25 costs $12,700. Exotic leathers and rare colors cost more. These prices also vary by region; European prices are 10–15% lower than U.S. prices.

Why do Birkins cost so much on the secondhand market?

Hermès strictly limits how many Birkins are made and controls sales through stores only. This creates extreme scarcity. Demand far exceeds supply, so secondhand buyers bid up prices. Additionally, rare colors and exotic skins become collectible, like fine art. A Birkin in a rare color like "Himalaya" can sell for $100,000+ at auction.

Should I buy a Margaux or wait for a Birkin?

If you want a bag now and your budget is under $10,000, buy the Margaux. You will enjoy it, use it, and possibly sell it at a small gain. If you can wait 3–5 years, have $14,000+, and want a true investment heirloom, pursue the Birkin. Both are excellent bags; the right choice depends on your timeline and budget.

Is the Margaux a good beginner luxury bag?

Yes, absolutely. It costs one-third of a Birkin, has no waiting list, and is available in many colors. It is perfect for someone new to luxury bags who wants to know what they like before spending $14,000 on a Birkin. Many people buy a Margaux first, love it, then pursue a Birkin later.

Will the Margaux still be fashionable in 10 years?

Likely, yes. The Margaux's minimal design is timeless. However, it is too early to know if it will reach Birkin-level iconic status. The bag is only a few years old as an "it bag." If The Row keeps making high-quality versions and keeps supply limited, the Margaux could become a modern classic. Time will tell if this happens.

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Final Thoughts

The Margaux vs. Birkin choice is not really about which bag is "better." Instead, it is about which bag fits your life.

The Margaux is a modern luxury bag that offers quiet elegance, fair pricing, and easy access. It appreciates in value and signals good taste to those who understand fashion. It is the choice for people who want luxury now and do not need the whole world to know about it.

The Birkin is a 40-year-old icon that carries deep heritage, extreme scarcity, and collector status. It resells at 2–3 times retail price. It is the choice for those who can afford to wait years and view the bag as an investment or family heirloom to pass down.

If you have read this far and still cannot decide, ask yourself one question: Do you want a beautiful bag you can have and use immediately, or are you willing to wait years for the ultimate luxury status symbol and investment? Your answer will tell you which bag is right for you.