Kim Kardashian, the Skims founder and reality television icon, has finally addressed the controversy surrounding the Hermès Birkin bag made from elephant hide that set social media ablaze in November. During a candid conversation on her sister Khloé Kardashian’s podcast, Khloé in Wonder Land, the 45-year-old reality star revealed that the bag that sparked outrage was, in fact, a prop and not a real elephant skin Birkin.
“If you look at it … the hardware is upside down… it’s like an actual full fake one,” Kardashian explained, clarifying the misconception that had driven months of criticism. The bag appeared on the set of her Hulu legal drama All’s Fair, as part of a gray-toned outfit her character Allura Grant wore in a scene.
Kardashian acknowledged that the wardrobe choice, despite being a prop, was poorly received. “I was so annoyed with myself … because people didn’t know if it was real or fake. Even just putting that out there — I wish I was a little bit smarter and made a better choice,” she admitted.
Among the most vocal critics at the time was model and actress Ireland Baldwin, who called the bag “disgusting and shameful” on Instagram. The backlash was compounded by Hermès’ history; although the company never commercially sold elephant leather bags, limited editions were allegedly produced in the 1980s from safari-hunted elephants. Today, these ultra-rare Birkins can fetch upwards of $125,000 on resale markets, highlighting why the story caused such a stir.
Kardashian explained that she delayed responding to the controversy due to feeling “overwhelmed” by criticism of All’s Fair at the time. She praised Ellen DeGeneres for privately reaching out, which she says helped her navigate the backlash. “She really took the time to communicate with me,” Kardashian said, noting Ellen’s advice inspired her ongoing commitment to faux fur and ethical fashion choices.
The production of All’s Fair also provided additional prop bags for wardrobe purposes, including the faux elephant Birkin. “I brought a lot of my bags for the show … but we just got a bunch of other ones we could leave on set,” Kardashian explained, emphasizing that the bag was never intended to be presented as real.
Kim Kardashian’s $125K elephant Birkin sparks backlash from Ireland Baldwin, highlighting the clash between luxury fashion, ethics, and financial value.
How Much is the Elephant Birkin Worth?
Even as a prop, the elephant Birkin continues to attract curiosity because of the bag’s controversial history and iconic status. Real elephant Birkins, extremely rare and largely private, are considered collectibles with resale values often exceeding $125,000, depending on condition and provenance.
Hermès collectors and auction houses have noted that any Birkin associated with celebrity ownership, even a prop, can see a spike in interest, particularly if linked to Kim Kardashian. While this specific prop bag isn’t genuine, its connection to one of the world’s most famous fashion icons adds a layer of intrigue that could influence auction value in the future.
For context, Kardashian herself has owned some of the most expensive Birkins in the world, including a peacock blue Porosus Crocodile Birkin listed for nearly $50,000 on the family’s resale platform, Kardashian Kloset. She has also famously fought with her mother Kris Jenner over rare vintage Birkins designed by Jean Paul Gaultier, underscoring the cultural and financial significance these bags hold.
Public Reaction and Ethical Debate
The controversy surrounding the elephant Birkin brought renewed focus on celebrity responsibility and animal rights. Critics argued that carrying such a bag, real or fake, sends the wrong message about wildlife conservation. Kardashian addressed this concern openly, admitting she wished she had anticipated the public reaction and made a more thoughtful wardrobe decision.
This incident reflects a broader cultural conversation about luxury fashion, ethics, and sustainability. Even a prop can generate debates about influence, highlighting how celebrity choices can amplify awareness—or backlash—around sensitive topics.
Kim Kardashian’s elephant Birkin bag up close, revealing the prop used on the set of “All’s Fair,” sparking fashion and ethics debates
Celebrity Accessories: Influence and Responsibility
Kardashian’s experience demonstrates the power of celebrity influence on luxury fashion markets. A single accessory, especially a rare Hermès Birkin, can spark discussion that extends far beyond a red carpet appearance. This case also illustrates how context matters—prop vs. real item, ethical vs. unethical sourcing—and how public perception can affect brand reputation and individual celebrity standing.
By addressing the controversy head-on, Kardashian reinforces a growing trend among high-profile figures: acknowledging missteps, educating audiences, and steering the conversation toward responsibility and transparency.
What This Means for Fashion Collectors
Collectors now face a nuanced situation. Even though the elephant Birkin in question is not genuine, its association with Kim Kardashian and mainstream media attention has created a layer of cultural cachet. Experts suggest that celebrity-linked fashion props can achieve secondary market interest, not for their material value, but for provenance and narrative significance.
This aligns with broader trends in the luxury collectibles market, where rarity, backstory, and celebrity connections drive demand as much as actual craftsmanship.
Closing Thoughts
The elephant Birkin episode is a reminder that in the age of social media, every fashion choice is amplified. Kim Kardashian’s candid admission not only clarifies the record but also sparks reflection on ethical consumption, celebrity influence, and the luxury market’s complex dynamics. Whether viewed as a prop, a statement, or a collectible, the controversy illustrates how fashion, fame, and ethics intersect in a high-stakes spotlight, offering lessons for both celebrities and consumers.
Kim Kardashian steps out in Aspen on January 1, 2026, wearing a $7,500 vintage Roberto Cavalli fur coat days after facing PETA criticism over puppy gifts.
What Fans Are Asking
What makes Hermès Birkins so expensive?
Hermès Birkins are handcrafted from rare leathers with meticulous attention to detail. Limited production, brand prestige, and celebrity association contribute to prices ranging from $10,000 to over $500,000.
Are elephant skin Birkins legal today?
No. Elephant skin Birkins were produced in the 1980s, and international regulations now prohibit trade in elephant hide, making these bags extremely rare and highly collectible.
Can prop luxury items become valuable?
Yes. Items used by celebrities, even as props, can gain cultural significance, making them potentially collectible due to provenance, media exposure, and historical context.
