Help.. Birkin 35mm or 40mm

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Jill N

O.G.
Dec 25, 2007
654
1,850
Would love to hear from people on the size. I’m about to buy a preloved 40. I’m 5’8 about 160 pounds and love big bags. Is the 40 a good size? I like to carry my pouches and iPad and work in NYC. This is the Togo which I heard is lighter. Thanks for your help!!
 
Have only 35s. I use them all the time. I think a 40 would be too big, but perhaps a search would lead to some photos.

I know people complain about weight, even about the smaller Bs, but I haven't had a problem. I don't fill mine to the top though. I am guessing a 40 would be in a heavier leather, just to keep its shape etc. Especially if it's an older 40.
 
All of mine are 35 and when I travel and load 'em up they're rather heavy. I think the dimensions of the 40 are better suited for men and of course they're heavier. But if you love it, go for it.
 
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I tried on a 40 once and it was huge, I’m 5’6. You may like a 40 if you like big bags, but I think carrying that for any length of time would be problematic. I have a 35 in Togo in which I carry my laptop, iPad, sometimes a bottle of water and other essentials (it is never completely filled up) and I definitely feel the weight even though I walk a short distance. I definitely wouldn’t want to walk with mine in NYC.
 
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It can really depend. I'm 5'2 and 140 pounds and even when I don't put too much in my B30, it can get heavy. Is there a return policy with the pre-loved bag? I know it can be difficult/impossible right now with the pandemic to see/try something in person, so if you can't return it, I'd advise to wait. B35 might be better.
 
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I carried a Gold Togo ghw 40B for a few years.
I’m 5’6” - I loved it as it held a lot of my belongings (and more). However, I eventually switched to an Iris Togo 35B because I felt the size was much more manageable for me.

I think it’s best to try both sizes on to see which works best for you (although it may be difficult right now, so hopefully when stores reopen).
Good luck and please keep us posted on what you decide :flowers:
 
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