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Re:The unusual economics of the Birkin handbag by yobbo on Monday June 24, 2024 @08:05AM (#40775029)
The reason behind value is similar to the value of a military/exclusive medal. It's a "legitimate" way for the owner to signal prestige.
Re:The unusual economics of the Birkin handbag by jsty on Monday June 24, 2024 @09:44AM (#40775978)
In economics terms - a Veblen good

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veblen_good

Re:The unusual economics of the Birkin handbag by virtualritz on Monday June 24, 2024 @10:12AM (#40776281)
True but not entirely.

There are big quality differences and often luxury brands do use material and labor that makes a bag cost hundreds of dollars or euros to produce.

But not all do and sometimes they flounder or cheat on certain products.

The margin between that production cost (Tanner always gives an estimate) and the actual price is definitely a function mainly of the prestige associated with the brand.

I.e. other factors such as shipping, display (think flagship stores), advertising & sales labor costs play much less of a role in the luxury segment.

Re:The unusual economics of the Birkin handbag by rvba on Monday June 24, 2024 @02:13PM (#40779084)
There are a lot of people who will pay a lot of money to show that they are better than others.

Still the best shop was the one who sold stuff only to fit people - didnt have big sizes (I always wondered if they didnt sell big sizes at a premium).

Re:The unusual economics of the Birkin handbag by lupire on Monday June 24, 2024 @02:33PM (#40779273)
No, because they don't want fat people tarnishing their brand.
Re:The unusual economics of the Birkin handbag by Aeolun on Monday June 24, 2024 @09:11PM (#40783171)
Too hard to make them look good? I don’t think it’s strictly impossible.