A Guide to Hermes Birkin Limited Edition Bags

The iconic Birkin bag story began in 1984 when actress and singer Jane Birkin met Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight from Paris to London. During their conversation, Birkin expressed her need for a functional yet stylish bag, which led to the creation of the now-famous Original Jane Birkin bag. Jane's original Birkin bag was black with gold hardware and the same width is the current Birkin 35 but had the depth of the Birkin 40. 

What happens when one of the world’s most exclusive bags gets even rarer? Hermès only produces a limited quantity of its iconic Birkin handbags each year, making the maison’s special editions, released every few years, incredibly difficult to get one’s hands on. Each created from start to finish by one craftsman, these handbags come in an array of materials and colours, and demand has never been higher. Here, we delve into the limited-edition styles, which range from uniquely utilitarian designs to dramatic pieces made in collaboration with renowned designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier.

The Faubourg Birkin

In 2019, Hermès introduced the first Birkin Faubourg bags, translating the architecture of its flagship into handbag form. The miniature Birkin 20 was crafted in Sellier construction and featured “Day” and “Night” variations. Each version combined Matte Alligator flaps with Madame calfskin bodies, Swift leather windows, Epsom glass panels, and a Sombrero leather base—all accented with Orange H Swift awnings reminiscent of the boutique’s canopies. Even the clochette was reimagined as a miniature orange Hermès shopping bag, making the design instantly iconic.

Two new interpretations arrived in 2021: the Midnight (Minuit) and the Snow (Neige). The Midnight edition featured deep black tones, PVD hardware, and moody elegance reminiscent of the So Black collection. The Snow version contrasted it entirely—with a Matte Alligator body, White Togo flap, and Blue Brume Chevre windows, evoking a wintry Parisian evening. Collectors prize completing the quartet—Day, Night, Midnight, and Snow—nicknamed Place de Faubourg or, in China, the Beijing Courtyard.

The line continued evolving in 2024 with the Birkin Disco Faubourg, crafted entirely in black Box leather with a graffiti-style white façade and a disco-ball padlock charm. That same year saw the debut of the Rainy Days Faubourg, featuring a Gris Ciment Matte Alligator flap, Gris Misty Epsom body, and signature Orange H awnings. Both designs remain extremely limited and have yet to appear frequently at auction, though their anticipated premiums mirror earlier Faubourg models—often 3–4× retail, or higher for pristine examples.

The Shadow Birkin

There's one Birkin edition that says quiet luxury like no other: the Shadow Birkin. Created in 2009 by Jean Paul Gaultier, the shadow Birkin is a modern take on the classic Birkin. This illustrious bag was aimed to create a trompe-l'oeil effect by alluding to the top flap and classic hardware on the original bag. Despite not having the attached plaque, flap, lock, clochette and tiret, the bag continues to communicate its Birkin status through the emblematic shape and the illusions created. Made from premium evercalf leather, this bag is offered in limited colors. At the helm of Hermès in 2009, Gaultier achieved the ultimate symbol of quiet luxury years before the birth of the quiet luxury trend. The Birkin 25 Shadow bag was re-released in 2021 in limited quantities. 

The Touch Birkin

Released in 2017, the Touch is Hermès’s answer to those who want a hint of exotic material in Hermes handbags. This style is available in a variety of jewel tones and features a leather body with an alligator or crocodile top flap. Occasionally, other parts of the bag will also be highlighted by pops of exotic leather. 

While collectors often prefer to wear their Birkins open for easy access to what’s inside, the Touch best presents its exceptional details when worn closed.

The Ghillies Birkin

One of Hermès’s most coveted and hard-to-find designs is the Ghillies, which is distinguished by its decorative trim. 

Introduced in 2012, the Ghillies was an extension of the haute bijouterie jewellery collection produced in 2011 by Pierre Hardy, artistic director of jewellery at Hermès. The design is inspired by a style of Scottish men’s shoe with perforations known as ‘broguing’ that help it dry more efficiently after outdoor activity. 

Hardy drew on his own heritage and adapted it into something both stylish and functional: the characteristic leatherwork of the brogue, applied to a women’s bag, makes it look even more feminine and immaculately detailed.

The Sunrise and Sunset Birkins

First produced in 2020, the Sunrise and Sunset Rainbows are exclusive Birkins finished with Sellier stitching. Generally reserved for Hermès Kelly handbags, ‘sellier’ refers to the visible outer stitching that gives the bag a crisper, more structured shape. 

An eye-catching design that is perfect for the summer season, the Sunset's colour-blocked effect combines lime, rose confetti, terre battue and sesame, while the Sunset version features abricot, bleu agate, magnolia and rouge casaque Epsom leather.

The Cargo Birkin

Military chic! This just about sums up the latest Birkin design from Hermès. Think utilitarian, rugged, functional and above all fun.

This limited-edition release was first seen on the Hermes runway in 2020. The Birkin Cargo comes in a size 25 and 35 or a HAC 40. Regardless of the size, they all come with handy outer pockets in various dimensions. Inspired by military clothing with its multiple pockets, this Birkin Cargo is structured and sturdy. The combination of toile with leather trim gives the Birkin Cargo its distinct military look. Even the current colours of Sesame, Black, Citron and Blue Marine are reminiscent of combat fatigues, although we are sure that fashion aficionados would not let that dictate how it is to be styled.

The Rock Birkin

The limited edition Rock Birkin first appeared in the Men’s fall/winter 2022 Paris runway. It is presently in production on a very limited basis. Constructed of Volupto black leather and sporting several zipped pockets and a chain that extends from a ring on the front to the kelly lock. 

Its unisex design appeals to both men and women. The Rock Birkin maintains the classic silhouette of the traditional Birkin bag but with a distinctive edge. It features more daring and avant-garde elements compared to the classic models. A very special Birkin that will add a rock and roll flare to any outfit. 

The Picnic Birkin

The Hermès Picnic Birkin embodies the fusion of exquisite craftsmanship and artistic collaboration. Combining the synergy of two seasoned artisans, the Picnic Birkin blends high fashion and whimsy in a way only Hermès can produce. The finest basket weavers combine their skills with Hermès’ premier saddlers to create a unique Birkin that stands apart from all others. 

The first Picnic bags emerged in the spring/summer season of 2011 and made a huge impact. The mini Picnic Kelly debuted in 2019 and the Birkin Picnic debuted in 2022. 

Expertly handwoven from Osier wicker then combined with BARENIA® or Swift leather in a variety of colors results in a sophisticated design which captures the essence of eternal summer. Fashion enthusiasts dream of the day they are able to add a Picnic Birkin to their collection.

The Birkin en Desordre

The Hermès Birkin 30 en Desordre is a distinctive and avant-garde interpretation of the classic Birkin bag, characterized by its unconventional design that breaks away from the traditional symmetrical and structured form. It appeared in the Fall/Winter 2022 runway show. 

The defining feature of the Birkin en Desordre is its asymmetrical and seemingly disordered design. Unlike the classic Birkin, which is known for its symmetry and structure, the Birkin en Desordre appears as if parts of the bag have been shifted or disarranged. 

This bag includes playful elements such as off-center straps, unevenly placed pockets, and a tilted flap. These deliberate design choices create a whimsical and modern aesthetic. 

The Hermès Birkin en Desordre is a bold reimagining of the classic Birkin, offering a playful and artistic twist on traditional luxury. Its asymmetrical design, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship make it a unique and highly desirable addition to the Birkin family. The limited edition status and distinctive aesthetic ensure that it remains a prized possession for fashion aficionados and collectors who value innovation and individuality in their luxury accessories.

The Colormatic Birkin

The Hermès Birkin Colormatic is a limited edition variation of the iconic Birkin bag that emphasizes bold color contrasts and modern design elements. Known for its striking color combinations, it features bold and vibrant hues. The use of contrasting colors on different parts of the bag, such as the body, flap, sangles, and pockets, creates a playful and visually dynamic modern look. This bag first appeared in the Spring/Summer of 2022. 

The design often incorporates color panels and zippered pouches which add a contemporary twist to the classic Birkin silhouette. Constructed in swift leather using 5 different colors which all complement each other. 

The Hermès Birkin Colormatic is a perfect blend of classic luxury and modern design innovation. Its bold color blocking, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship make it a unique and desirable variation of the traditional Birkin bag. The limited edition status and distinctive aesthetic ensure that it remains a prized possession for fashion aficionados and Hermès collectors alike. 

The Casaque Birkin

The Hermès Birkin Casaque is a limited edition variation of the iconic Birkin bag which debuted in 2022. It is distinguished by its vibrant colors and unique design elements that draw inspiration from equestrian themes, particularly jockey silks (known as casaques in French). The Birkin Casaque features bold, contrasting color blocks making the bag stand out and adding a playful yet sophisticated touch. 

The Birkin Casaque is a tri-color bag. There are two complementary colors on the outside and a contrasting color on the inside. We have seen them in the following combinations: Rose Extreme, Rouge Casaque and Blue Zanzibar inside; Etoupe, Sesame, and Blue Indigo inside; and Noir, Blue Indigo, and Blue Frida inside. 

The Hermès Birkin Casaque is a testament to the brand’s ability to innovate while honoring its rich heritage. The vibrant color combinations, jockey-inspired design, and meticulous craftsmanship make it a unique and highly coveted variation of the classic Birkin. 

The Anate Fringe Birkin  

The Birkin 35 Sellier Anate Fringe is one of Hermès’ more unique and avant-garde interpretations of the classic Birkin bag.The most striking feature of the Birkin Anate is its elaborate fringe detailing. Long leather fringes cascade from the front and sides of the bag, creating a dynamic and eye-catching effect. Typically crafted from smooth, high-quality leathers such as Evergrain which allow the fringes to move fluidly and maintain their shape. Released in various rich colors, such as noir and ebene, these colors complement the playful nature of the fringe design. The design is inspired by the equestrian heritage of Hermès. 

The Birkin Anate, released in the Fall/Winter 2023 season, is a testament to the brand’s ability to innovate while staying true to its heritage of craftsmanship and luxury. Its distinctive fringe detailing transforms the iconic Birkin silhouette into a piece of wearable art, making it a prized addition to any Hermès collection.