When discussing Hermès and the Birkin, Tanner echoed Cynthia’s sentiment about the online frenzy over the Wirkin making a statement against luxury brands. “There’s definitely a growing trend, especially among Gen Z, to embrace dupes and view them as a way to push back against luxury brands that have long sold expensive products many feel aren’t particularly special. It’s almost like a form of rebellion — saying, ‘If big brands can overcharge us, we can outsmart them with affordable alternatives.’ This shift in mindset has also made owning dupes feel less taboo and, in some cases, even something to flaunt on social media. It’s trendy, and for many, it’s a statement.”
