If you can't (like most) afford a Birkin...

So still on the subject of Birkins... my dream Birkin is a 30cm Iris purple chevre or clemence (baby bull) leather Birkin with palladium hardware.  As far as I'm concerned, if you're going to carry an iconic bag, you should make a statement. My default statement colour is purple. I know I said crocodile was the most desirable in my last post, but I like how chevre or clemence (supposedly) relax.  I'm not really feeling the big, stiff bag look.

Of course, I'm a long way off from being able to afford a Birkin (as the majority of the world is), but there are plenty of repicas and Birkin inspired handbags available on a lower budget. 

Recently, I saw a very good looking replica at Browns for $198.  It was genuine leather and came in a number of neutral colours.  To the untrained eye or from a distance, others might've even believed it was real given the good looking proportions!

Town Shoes also has a very Birkin-esque bag in their "Runway" collection going for a similar price as the one at Browns.  Also in genuine leather, it comes in a range of colours.  (Though I have to say, I preferred the one at Browns).   

If you look online you will come across hundreds of replica sites. Most of these replicas are, again, made of genuine leather and often go so far as to have fake blindstamps.  You will usually be looking in the $300 - $400 range with these.

But at that price, as far as I'm concerned, you may as well get yourself a genuine (mid-range) designer bag!

The Rebecca Minkoff Brynn tote is definitely Birkin inspired, though it lacks the belt closure and has a shoulder strap.  I personally love the patent accents and buckles - I think they add visual interest and a bit of modernity - though I miss the belt closure.

Rebecca Minkoff Brynn - originally $550, now on sale for under $400

Another very Birkin bag is the Michael Kors Hamilton tote (my friend refers to it as the Michael Kors Birkin).  It relaxes very nicely from what I've noticed, and is in a variety of (trendy) colours every season (even purple!).  It lacks the flap and I find the lock to be rather obtrusive, but the lock is removable, it's available in two sizes (and croc embossing), and the bag is under $400.  It also happens to be quite easy to find on eBay...

Michael Kors Hamilton tote (large) in Cobalt - $328 on the Michael Kors site