Why is Kim Kardashian's elephant Birkin bag controversial?

The controversy stems from the use of elephant leather, an ethically sensitive material, for a luxury Hermès Birkin bag.

Did Hermès ever sell elephant leather bags?

Hermès did not officially sell elephant purses but crafted custom ones from elephant hides for specific clients in the past.

Who criticized Kim Kardashian's elephant Birkin bag?

Hailey Bieber publicly condemned the use of the elephant leather bag as 'disgusting and shameful.'

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Kim Kardashian's Elephant Birkin Sparks Outrage

Kim Kardashian's Elephant Birkin Sparks Outrage

25 Nov

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Summary

Kim Kardashian showcased a controversial elephant leather Birkin bag.
Hailey Bieber called the bag usage 'disgusting and shameful'.
Hermès previously crafted custom elephant bags from hunted hides.

Kim Kardashian's Elephant Birkin Sparks Outrage

Kim Kardashian's recent appearance with an elephant leather Hermès Birkin bag has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Fashion commentator Daniel Wesson shared a clip featuring the luxury handbag, which quickly drew sharp reactions from the public and fellow celebrities. Hailey Bieber notably expressed her dismay, labeling the display as "disgusting and shameful" and questioning the support such actions receive.

The controversy centers on the bag's material, with Wesson explaining that while Hermès no longer produces elephant leather bags, they historically crafted custom pieces from elephant hides obtained through hunting safaris in the 1980s. PETA confirms that although not officially sold, the French luxury label did make a number of these purses from elephant skin.

Kardashian, a known Birkin collector, collaborated with stylist Soki Mak for her character Allura Grant's wardrobe. Mak emphasized that Allura embodies a confident, trend-defying persona, with the outfits, including the controversial bag, exaggerated for television to convey this self-assured attitude.