Bethenny Frankel Champions Affordable Luxury with JW Pei
Bethenny Frankel, the former star of 'The Real Housewives of New York City' and a well-known TikTok influencer, has recently made waves with her endorsement of JW Pei, an affordable handbag brand that delivers high-end style without the hefty price tag. In a recent post on social media, Frankel expressed her admiration for the brand, highlighting how these under-$200 bags can make anyone 'look like a million bucks.' Her enthusiasm has brought significant attention to JW Pei, a brand that has already gained traction for its quality and design similarities to luxury pieces.
Frankel's latest feature in her 'Handbag University' series showcased several JW Pei styles, with one particular bag catching her eye for being 'inspired by two different Hermès bags in one.' This unique blend of inspiration from iconic Hermès designs like the Birkin and Kelly bags, combined with a price point accessible to many, has resonated with her followers. Her candid reviews often mix her knowledge of high-end fashion—she owns pieces from Chanel and Hermès—with a knack for spotting budget-friendly alternatives.
JW Pei's Rise to Fame and Celebrity Endorsements
JW Pei has been on the radar of fashion enthusiasts for a few years, especially after going viral on TikTok for its vegan leather designs made from recycled materials. The brand's appeal lies in its ability to mimic the aesthetic of designer handbags while maintaining prices that don't break the bank. Frankel's praise, alongside endorsements from other celebrities like Kyle Richards, has further solidified JW Pei's status as a go-to for affordable luxury, with some styles even dipping below $100 during sales events like Amazon Prime Day.
The specific bag Frankel dubbed as 'giving Birkin' has become a fan favorite, often referred to as the 'Firkin' or 'Wirkin' bag in online discussions. Its crisp design and structural similarity to the coveted Hermès Birkin have made it a standout piece. As reported on various platforms, this bag's resurgence in popularity in 2025 can be partly attributed to Frankel's viral TikTok videos where she passionately shares her finds.
From Hermès to High Street: Frankel's Fashion Evolution
Interestingly, Frankel's journey with handbags includes a notable shift from owning multiple Hermès bags to selling them off, as she revealed in a viral rant earlier this year. She criticized the culture of using designer products as a status symbol on reality TV, suggesting that true style doesn't require exorbitant spending. Her pivot to promoting brands like JW Pei reflects this philosophy, encouraging fans to invest in pieces that offer value and versatility over mere brand prestige.
This evolution in Frankel's approach to fashion underscores a broader trend among influencers and celebrities who are increasingly spotlighting accessible brands. With JW Pei's combination of sustainable materials, trendy designs, and celebrity backing, it's clear why Bethenny Frankel continues to champion these bags as a way to achieve a 'rich mom' look for less. Her influence ensures that more people are discovering how to elevate their wardrobe without draining their wallets.