Seems as if even Hermes is not recession-proof: according to shopping blog shefinds.com, a previously almost unattainable Hermes Birkin bag can now be bought by anyone — if you’re ready to spend $6,500 or more, that is.

The Birkin, one of the best-known statement bags, can cost up to six digits and is frequently worn by Hollywood A-listers.

“Then we called around to Hermès, and found out there is no more silly waiting list — they told us we could walk right in and get one today.”

In the meantime, however, Portero’s accessories director has posted a clarification, saying: “Yes, it’s true, at times you can get lucky and find a Birkin or two at an Hermès boutique.

However, there is still a wait list for Birkins, especially if you have a size or color preference (which I think most of us do!).”

The exclusive image of the bag suffered a bit when pop star Lady Gaga scribbled Asian characters onto hers earlier this month, using a black felt pen.

It has also been argued before that hosting temporary boutiques on designer sample sale sites — a recent phenomenon caused by the economic crisis — can damage a luxury brand’s reputation in the long run.