The Hermes Birkin bag, a pinnacle of luxury with prices starting at £13,000, has become a signature accessory among footballers' wives and girlfriends (WAGs). However, celebrity stylists Lisa Talbot and Rochelle White note that while some WAGs achieve effortless elegance, others miss the mark with incohesive or overly flashy choices.
The Birkin Trend: A Legacy from Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham popularised the Birkin in the early 2000s, transforming it into a status symbol. Today, WAGs like Ashlyn Castro, Taylor Ward, and Kate Kane continue the tradition, often showcasing their collections on social media and at matches.
Ashlyn Castro: Evolving Style
Ashlyn Castro, girlfriend of Jude Bellingham, was spotted with a black Hermes Kelly 25 bag (retail ~£22,950) at the Mutua Madrid Open. Stylist Rochelle White praises her relaxed, off-duty vibe, while Lisa Talbot notes her style is still developing, with the bag adding polish but lacking consistency.
Megan Pickford: Mastered Elegance
Megan Pickford, wife of Jordan Pickford, frequently flaunts her Birkin 30 in Epsom leather with white gold finishes. Talbot describes her look as considered and cohesive, while White highlights her ability to balance trends with structure.
Kate Kane: Timeless and Refined
Kate Kane, wife of Harry Kane, opts for classic colours like black and white, using a Birkin 35 and 30. Talbot calls her style elegant and conservative, and White praises her understated aesthetic, noting the bag aligns rather than elevates.
Taylor Ward: Extensive Collection
Taylor Ward, wife of Riyad Mahrez, boasts the largest Birkin collection among WAGs, often featuring the Birkin 30 in black or neutral tones. Talbot commends her effortless, polished look, and White notes her mastery of proportion and palette.
Sandra Calvert-Lewin: Bold and Experimental
Sandra Calvert-Lewin, wife of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, chooses a green Birkin 30, retailing over £30,000. Talbot finds her trend-led but sometimes incohesive, while White says the bag can feel separate from the outfit.
Ferne Maguire: Subtle Integration
Ferne Maguire, wife of Harry Maguire, wears her Birkin 25 across her body. Talbot appreciates the relatable style but feels it lacks elevation, and White notes occasional inconsistency.
Isabel Haugseng Johansen: Modern Minimalism
Isabel Haugseng Johansen, girlfriend of Erling Haaland, carries a limited-edition silver Birkin 30. White sees her as one to watch, with a minimalist, understated approach, while Talbot highlights her Scandinavian, unfussy style.
Overall, while the Birkin remains a coveted symbol, its impact depends on how well it integrates into the wearer's overall aesthetic.
