Carole Middleton's appearance at Cheltenham may have been two days ago, but we are still reeling over the appearance of her incredible designer handbag. The 71-year-old was photographed catching up with Prince William's cousin, Zara Tindall, as she arrived at the famous Cotswold horse racing venue on Wednesday.
The mother-of-three wore a delightful outfit, featuring her royal daughter's blue fedora by Hicks & Brown, which was instantly recognisable due to the statement feathered embellishment around the brim. Accessorising to perfection, Carole donned a pair of chocolate-brown suede boots, as well as her leather gloves, and a longline blue-toned grey check coat.
© PA Images via Getty ImagesCarole's Birkin bag
© PA Images via Getty ImagesCarole carried a Birkin bag
The wife of British businessman Michael Middleton finished her glamorous ensemble with a faux fur scarf in a caramel hue and a pair of floral drop earrings. Hanging from her arm was a 'Birkin' bag by Hermès in a complementary brown shade, crafted from ostrich skin.
© Edward BerthelotBirkin bags as hugely exclusive
The 'Birkin' is widely regarded as one of the most famous handbags of all time. Instantly recognisable for its structured, almost briefcase-like design, the price starts at £25,000, and it is a huge seller in the preloved market.
© 1st DibsBirkin bags made from exotic materials are sought-after items
"Any exotic material is rare," Charlotte Staerck, Co-Founder & CEO at The Handbag Clinic, tells Best Quality Designer Handbag . "These bags come directly from Hermès and require a long-standing relationship with the brand," she noted. "A big spend with the brand like this usually comes with at least a two-year wait," the handbag expert added.
© Getty ImagesBirkin bags like Carole's are huge on the preloved market
Charlotte, whose industry-renowned expertise in handbag authentication has led her to consult for iconic auction houses, including Sotheby's, explains that it's difficult to determine whether Carole purchased this bag brand new or on the pre-loved market. "There is a chance this was purchased pre-loved; however, equally, when your daughter is the Princess of Wales, I'm sure there are ways around these things," she said.
© Getty ImagesCarole's Birkin was in a classic brown shade
Carole has chosen a classic colour for her Birkin bag, which is a timeless choice. "Unlike leathers, neutral shades like this are actually easier to get hold of in exotic fabrics, as people prefer the bright and bold, mainly to signify the rarity and scarcity of the item," Charlotte added.
© Getty ImagesCarole's bag is a great investment
Many consider investing in an iconic bag, such as the Birkin, a sound investment.
"This is still a solid investment for Carole regardless of how it is purchased," Charlotte revealed. "Although de-influencing exotics is increasing in other brands, Hermès has managed to beat the controversy and keep these in high demand," she explained.
