I'm a Faker.

First created in 1984, the is one of the most exclusive handbags on the planet. It is said that here is a 2 year waiting list, however, in his book titled Bringing Home the Birkin, Michael Tonello shares his insider experience that there is no wait list, that Hermes will gladly sell you a Birkin if you are already in the store, buying other items. However, if you come in only seeking a Birkin... You are S-O-L. Conspiracy theories aside- Birkin price range starts at $9,000 to $150,000.

There are many theories which surround the bag's origins but in an interview with UK’s Elle magazine March 2010 entitled “Stylish Thinking — Jane Birkin”, the singer confirms that she provided the inspiration for the bag.

While traveling from London to Paris in the 1980s, Birkin found herself seated next to the CEO of Hermès, Jean-Louis Dumas. Laden down with bits and pieces, Birkin’s Hermès organizer was overflowing and some items fell out of it. Looking at the debris next to him Dumas suggested she put things in the pockets, to which Birkin retorted “If Hermès put pockets in, I would.” From that moment, the idea of the oversized Hermès Birkin bag was born. One month later the Hermès CEO sent Birkin a design and asked if he could name it after her.

A few weeks ago, I stumbled into South Moon Under and spotted this luscious red bag. (This picture truly does it no justice.)

With a price tag of $58, I couldn't resist. I took this baby with me to California, and had several people comment on my "Birkin." I am one of those people who gets so excited about a bargain I immediately tell them that it was $58 and where they could get it. However, while I obviously realized that it resembled a Birkin, I freaked out at the possibility that I was one of those women who sported fake pleather handbags. Oye.

Then I thought about it some more, and realized that I didn't care. I loved this bag, it was real (organic) leather and I was certainly not in the market for Birkin. So until I win the lottery, this is it for me and I am content with my bargain purchase. Unfortunately, South Moon Under's online store is sold out, but I did find it here, for.. wait for it... $44. Get 'em while they are hot, ladies!