However, it cannot remain as it is in the peripatetic world of fashion and still draw attention. What are the implications of broad diffusion and adoption of this innovation?

Very broad diffusion would result in the 'death' of the bag, even the death of Hermes; given the lack of diffusion of the brand in society is the point of owning the bag. Knock-offs and fakes are extremely common, to the point that many fashion magazines run articles on how to spot a fake Birkin.

Because of its waiting list, from a typical expensive Hermes bag, "Birkin has become a cultural emblem of elitism, privilege and celebrity" (Givhan 2004). One store put up a sign: "The Wait Is Over. Get Yours Now" (The wait list is over, 2011, Glamour). With the elimination of the waiting list, the Birkin's elitism has dimmed, but another bag will likely take its place, given the need for the elite to communicate their status to the world. The decline of the Birkin was associated with the decline in the economy and backlash against ostentatious wealth, but given...

(2008). Can a Birkin bag get you special treatment? USA Today.
Retrieved November 12,

2011 at http://www.usatoday.com/life/lifestyle/fashion/2008-04-21-birkin-main_N.htm

Givhan, Robin. (2004). Martha's moneyed bag carries too much baggage. The Washington Post.

Retrieved November 12, 2011 at http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A37117-2004Jan21.html/

Hermes Bags. (2011). Love to Know. Retrieved November 12, 2011 at http://handbags.lovetoknow.com/Hermes_Bags

Kroll, Betsy. (2007). In the bag. Time. Retrieved November 12, 2011 at http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1611284,00.html

The wait list is over. (2011). Glamour. Retrieved November 12, 2011 at http://www.glamour.com/fashion/blogs/slaves-to-fashion/2010/04/the-wait-list-is-over-now-anyo.html