Here goes...stupid question: Birkin or Garden Party?

[coloradolvr]

I have both and for me it depends on lifestyle. I love my B's very much, but there are times I want a workhorse bag that I am not as concerned about. Both are under the radar imo but GP is even more so. If you are not as concerned about finances, then I would say definitely Birkin. If you are more concerned about spending that much on a bag and a lot of people are, then the Garden Party is still a beautiful well made bag.

 

[Dreaming Big]

I prefer a Birkin because it is more structured. A garden party can flop around when you put it down. Also, Birkins have feet, so you can put it on the floor.

 

[kuwa]

I also have both and feel they are very different bags...Have you seen them in person?
GP is under the radar, very casual bag. Over the shoulder in a pinch. May need some structure with insert depending on leather, as noted gets floppy over time. B is recognized in my area, so not under the radar at all. Very noticeable and more polished, for lack of better word, than GP. Also big $ difference.
Seems some feel GP is a placeholder of sorts before getting a B? The opposite for me, after B I realized I needed the casual easy tote for said occasion. They serve different purposes even though they are both essentially tote bags.

 

[Metrowestmama]

I don't think there are ever any stupid or silly questions! I love reading peoples' questions and responses! You can learn only if people ask the question!

My thoughts is a Birkin for winter and Garden Party for summer. Again, only my personal thoughts here but I think a GP is summery in feel with its open top. The simple structure gives it is summery feel too! I am not petite but in the summer I can actually get the handles over my bare shoulders (sans Coat) which is nice! So I don't have to put it down and since GPs don't have feet, that is important to me. I find B30s good in summer too when more dressed up. But in winter, I go for neutral B35s and B30s for more dressier looks.

 

[India]

Not a fan of the Birkin or the GP, but I sure used to love my Kelly's (too heavy to carry with oxygen anymore) and now adore my Picotin PM's. SO easy to carry and holds as much as I can carry (or need!).

There is a huge price difference between a Birkin and a GP. Such a decision should be based on how the bag will be used and if one can afford it. A Kia will get one from Point A to Point B; a Rolls Royce will, too, but with a bit more style and comfort (to say nothing of status).

 

[bagidiotic]

Birkin for the ultimate

 

[westcoastgal]

Get both. I have both and love both.

 

[Stansy]

More specifically, in Gold Size 30.

I know they are in completely different leagues but I’m curious what people thought...in terms of functionality, cost, etc.

Thank you all, for those you entertained this ridiculous question of mine [emoji5]

GP for me!

 

[cafecreme15]

Depends what you want to use it for! I use my GP when I want a gorgeous bag that no one will recognize. Anyone with even a passing familiarity with Hermes or the Kardashians will recognize a Birkin from down the street.

 

[partialtopink]

B30 all the way!! It's my HG bag, and my favorite in my collection.

 

[QuelleFromage]

Have both. Love both. Both are casual totes. The GP has a cloth lining and its top only has a snap, if that matters. I personally prefer the GP in the 36 size, so I would choose the Birkin....if I must choose!

 

[duna]

I also have both but my GP is Toile/leather, if I want a total leather bag I would definately choose the Birkin.

 

[boopeep]

I love my garden party, and think there’s room for both

Agree Birkin has more status, but I think GP looks so much more casual and effortless. Some days I want that look. Other days I want to look fancy.

 

[Zarie72]

My mother actually prefers to the GP! Haha, I gave her one of my birkins, but she still chooses the GP as she finds it more accessible.

I have both. Some days I reach for a B, some days GP. Yes, there is status in the B30, but sometimes the GP is more practical. I've purchased a total of three GP - TPM 30, Black, Gold and Blue Du Nord. Love them all. Also have a Black B30 and RP B30. Depends on where I am going and what outfit. GP TPM sometimes is hard to get in the color you want....my SA had to work hard to track down both the Gold and the BDN for me.

 

[papertiger]

I don't think it's a stupid question at all. Lots of Bs end-up in the back of the wardrobe and some people can't get on with either bag because of the lack of shoulder strap. At the end of the day are both totes.

Personally, I'd go for a GP every time (although I favour the 36cm. GP = No hardware, no name flashing, just light(er) beautiful leather. I didn't even see the GP when I was new to H, my attraction was hard won, it had to be the right colour and leather combo, and the love has came about through the wearing.