Hermes Shoppers - Explain the purchase process for me.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:does anyone on the forum actually have a birkin?

if so what was the process like?

I have two. DCUM regular. The process was pretty insane. We bought both at "the mothership" in Paris. I couldn't get the time of day in the Madison Avenue store. Sales associate in Paris wouldn't give me the time of day either. But then my husband walked up (he looks like he is someone) and she paid attention. She told HIM (after telling me they didn't have anything like I wanted) to come back in an hour and she would have something to show him. (Total game, but I wanted the bag.) We came back an hour later and she brought out three to show him. We bought one. For several reasons, it made sense for what I was doing at the time. So totally worth it. Plus, the memory.

Next year we go back, I recognized the sales associate, plus DH kept her card so knew her name. He went right up to her, she remember him (people always think he is a totally famous guy--homeless people are always shouting out to him, Hey, famous guy's name--and she said she remembered him) and she presented him with several options right away. Higher level Birkins this time.

The expanse aside…is it worth it? I mean really? It is a purse? Was it worth all that mental energy and game playing for a purse? How much joy can you possibly get from a purse?

It was worth it at the time career wise, given the industry I am in, which cares about these things. It also allowed me to spend less on clothes, wear simple, well-tailored classics rather than spend as much or more on many different expensive designer outfits that really, are hard to rewear. I'm established now, and it doesn't matter, and I rarely ever carry either of them. I will add that when we bought them we could afford them. I never would have spent the money had it compromised our savings.

As to the mental energy and game playing, it was oddly fun. In Paris, drinking wine, going to museums and buying the bags. It was the only shopping I have ever done in Paris.

I cannot think of any industry that requires a Birkin bag or cares. Even celebrities aren’t carrying them

I was thinking development. Maybe real estate. Or auction houses.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:does anyone on the forum actually have a birkin?

if so what was the process like?

I have two. DCUM regular. The process was pretty insane. We bought both at "the mothership" in Paris. I couldn't get the time of day in the Madison Avenue store. Sales associate in Paris wouldn't give me the time of day either. But then my husband walked up (he looks like he is someone) and she paid attention. She told HIM (after telling me they didn't have anything like I wanted) to come back in an hour and she would have something to show him. (Total game, but I wanted the bag.) We came back an hour later and she brought out three to show him. We bought one. For several reasons, it made sense for what I was doing at the time. So totally worth it. Plus, the memory.

Next year we go back, I recognized the sales associate, plus DH kept her card so knew her name. He went right up to her, she remember him (people always think he is a totally famous guy--homeless people are always shouting out to him, Hey, famous guy's name--and she said she remembered him) and she presented him with several options right away. Higher level Birkins this time.

The expanse aside…is it worth it? I mean really? It is a purse? Was it worth all that mental energy and game playing for a purse? How much joy can you possibly get from a purse?

It was worth it at the time career wise, given the industry I am in, which cares about these things. It also allowed me to spend less on clothes, wear simple, well-tailored classics rather than spend as much or more on many different expensive designer outfits that really, are hard to rewear. I'm established now, and it doesn't matter, and I rarely ever carry either of them. I will add that when we bought them we could afford them. I never would have spent the money had it compromised our savings.

As to the mental energy and game playing, it was oddly fun. In Paris, drinking wine, going to museums and buying the bags. It was the only shopping I have ever done in Paris.

I cannot think of any industry that requires a Birkin bag or cares. Even celebrities aren’t carrying them

I was thinking development. Maybe real estate. Or auction houses.

my assumption would be that they are either a dilettante looking for something to do with their time or that they are ripping me off

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:does anyone on the forum actually have a birkin?

if so what was the process like?

I have two. DCUM regular. The process was pretty insane. We bought both at "the mothership" in Paris. I couldn't get the time of day in the Madison Avenue store. Sales associate in Paris wouldn't give me the time of day either. But then my husband walked up (he looks like he is someone) and she paid attention. She told HIM (after telling me they didn't have anything like I wanted) to come back in an hour and she would have something to show him. (Total game, but I wanted the bag.) We came back an hour later and she brought out three to show him. We bought one. For several reasons, it made sense for what I was doing at the time. So totally worth it. Plus, the memory.

Next year we go back, I recognized the sales associate, plus DH kept her card so knew her name. He went right up to her, she remember him (people always think he is a totally famous guy--homeless people are always shouting out to him, Hey, famous guy's name--and she said she remembered him) and she presented him with several options right away. Higher level Birkins this time.

The expanse aside…is it worth it? I mean really? It is a purse? Was it worth all that mental energy and game playing for a purse? How much joy can you possibly get from a purse?

It was worth it at the time career wise, given the industry I am in, which cares about these things. It also allowed me to spend less on clothes, wear simple, well-tailored classics rather than spend as much or more on many different expensive designer outfits that really, are hard to rewear. I'm established now, and it doesn't matter, and I rarely ever carry either of them. I will add that when we bought them we could afford them. I never would have spent the money had it compromised our savings.

As to the mental energy and game playing, it was oddly fun. In Paris, drinking wine, going to museums and buying the bags. It was the only shopping I have ever done in Paris.

I cannot think of any industry that requires a Birkin bag or cares. Even celebrities aren’t carrying them

I was thinking development. Maybe real estate. Or auction houses.

my assumption would be that they are either a dilettante looking for something to do with their time or that they are ripping me off

So…development.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:does anyone on the forum actually have a birkin?

if so what was the process like?

I have two. DCUM regular. The process was pretty insane. We bought both at "the mothership" in Paris. I couldn't get the time of day in the Madison Avenue store. Sales associate in Paris wouldn't give me the time of day either. But then my husband walked up (he looks like he is someone) and she paid attention. She told HIM (after telling me they didn't have anything like I wanted) to come back in an hour and she would have something to show him. (Total game, but I wanted the bag.) We came back an hour later and she brought out three to show him. We bought one. For several reasons, it made sense for what I was doing at the time. So totally worth it. Plus, the memory.

Next year we go back, I recognized the sales associate, plus DH kept her card so knew her name. He went right up to her, she remember him (people always think he is a totally famous guy--homeless people are always shouting out to him, Hey, famous guy's name--and she said she remembered him) and she presented him with several options right away. Higher level Birkins this time.

The expanse aside…is it worth it? I mean really? It is a purse? Was it worth all that mental energy and game playing for a purse? How much joy can you possibly get from a purse?

It was worth it at the time career wise, given the industry I am in, which cares about these things. It also allowed me to spend less on clothes, wear simple, well-tailored classics rather than spend as much or more on many different expensive designer outfits that really, are hard to rewear. I'm established now, and it doesn't matter, and I rarely ever carry either of them. I will add that when we bought them we could afford them. I never would have spent the money had it compromised our savings.

As to the mental energy and game playing, it was oddly fun. In Paris, drinking wine, going to museums and buying the bags. It was the only shopping I have ever done in Paris.

I need to know your industry - and I want to see a picture of your husband! I know you can't do that but can you describe him? What celebrity does he look like?

I think your story sounds fun. I'd read a whole novel of scenes like that, personally.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I’m a nanny and worked for a person who went through this process to obtain 3 bags. She is exactly the type of person you’d expect to go through this process. She bought an entire China set for 16 people plus a childrens tea set for 28, plus many ugly scarves to obtain these purses. She was the worst person I’ve ever worked for. Hands down.

- celebrity nanny in LA

A celebrity wouldn't have to go through this process.

Bwhahahaha

[Anonymous]

Jeez, this thread is nuts. About twice a year I just have to get another Hermes scarf, so I walk into the DC store and get one. Last one they had to hunt down the one I wanted. I have spent thousands on scarves in dc and Paris, and the DC SA actually recognized me last time. I also got a couple enamel bracelets, but I have never found the shopping experience anything other than normal attentive service one would expect at a luxury store. But I don’t buy big ticket items and I have no desire to buy any of their leather goods as I prefer ferragamo style. But, I can’t do without my scarves. I have easily 20 and they are a staple of my middle age wardrobe.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:No, it’s *subjectively* gross to *you*. And that’s just fine. You can elect simply not to get one.

I don’t think Birkin Push Present lady did herself any favors bragging about spending $20k on hers, but plenty of women, myself included love a gift to commemorate the birth of a child and wear those items happily.

It's objective, hon. Making birthing a child a transactional event is gross.

Me: reasonable minds can differ.
You: my opinion is fact.

The gift I received after the birth of each of my children was....the child herself. A beautiful human being. That's all I needed. I guess you're just far more materialistic than I am.

My child is the greatest gift I have ever received. My push present was to commemorate a major life event - no different than the earrings my husband surprised me with when I graduated from law school, the ring he bought me when he asked me to marry him, or the ring he gave me the actual day we got married. It’s fascinating how all of those except the push present are acceptable.

Of course, you’re entitled to your own opinion, but resorting to name calling is petty, immature, and a poor argument tactic.

You're absolutely right, we should be using memes instead!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Jeez, this thread is nuts. About twice a year I just have to get another Hermes scarf, so I walk into the DC store and get one. Last one they had to hunt down the one I wanted. I have spent thousands on scarves in dc and Paris, and the DC SA actually recognized me last time. I also got a couple enamel bracelets, but I have never found the shopping experience anything other than normal attentive service one would expect at a luxury store. But I don’t buy big ticket items and I have no desire to buy any of their leather goods as I prefer ferragamo style. But, I can’t do without my scarves. I have easily 20 and they are a staple of my middle age wardrobe.

This is so fascinating. I’ve read the entire thread. I would like to buy a scarf or two but I’m not confident I can style them. And would certain people think I’m just in it for a Birkin or Kelly? Quoting PP because I’m middle aged and a Ferragamo handbag and shoe customer.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Jeez, this thread is nuts. About twice a year I just have to get another Hermes scarf, so I walk into the DC store and get one. Last one they had to hunt down the one I wanted. I have spent thousands on scarves in dc and Paris, and the DC SA actually recognized me last time. I also got a couple enamel bracelets, but I have never found the shopping experience anything other than normal attentive service one would expect at a luxury store. But I don’t buy big ticket items and I have no desire to buy any of their leather goods as I prefer ferragamo style. But, I can’t do without my scarves. I have easily 20 and they are a staple of my middle age wardrobe.

This is so fascinating. I’ve read the entire thread. I would like to buy a scarf or two but I’m not confident I can style them. And would certain people think I’m just in it for a Birkin or Kelly? Quoting PP because I’m middle aged and a Ferragamo handbag and shoe customer.

Np I’m in my early 30s and also love Hermes scarves. The people who buy them are different than the people buying birkins. I love Hermes scarves, particular a few of the artists. They’re very easy to tie once you’ve watched enough YouTube videos on it. I personally like the cashmere ones because they’re a bit more casual and they stay tied better. They are a work of art and they do hold their value.

[Anonymous]

Buying a scarf is a doddle. Don’t ruin the experience by sweating over it. There are so many beautiful options, the only thing you need to watch out for is making sure you pick a color way that flatters your face, and the sales assistant will help with that.

If you’ve never bought scarves before, make sure you pay special attention to the borders of the scarf, as that is what will show 9 times out of 10, however you tie it. Make sure you like the broad design, too. If you end up discovering you’re not a scarf person, they look fabulous framed.

As far as tying, there’s lots of YouTube tutorials and even an app

http://scarf-art.maitaicollection.com/

Get yourself a scarf ring to make things easy. If you’re not buying one from Hermès, check the interior of the ring carefully for any roughness. Don’t save money on a scarf ring only to snag up an expensive scarf.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Jeez, this thread is nuts. About twice a year I just have to get another Hermes scarf, so I walk into the DC store and get one. Last one they had to hunt down the one I wanted. I have spent thousands on scarves in dc and Paris, and the DC SA actually recognized me last time. I also got a couple enamel bracelets, but I have never found the shopping experience anything other than normal attentive service one would expect at a luxury store. But I don’t buy big ticket items and I have no desire to buy any of their leather goods as I prefer ferragamo style. But, I can’t do without my scarves. I have easily 20 and they are a staple of my middle age wardrobe.

Ok, help a sister out. How do you wear these. I love scarves but never purchase nice ones bc I’m unsure how to tie them.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:No, it’s *subjectively* gross to *you*. And that’s just fine. You can elect simply not to get one.

I don’t think Birkin Push Present lady did herself any favors bragging about spending $20k on hers, but plenty of women, myself included love a gift to commemorate the birth of a child and wear those items happily.

It's objective, hon. Making birthing a child a transactional event is gross.

Me: reasonable minds can differ.
You: my opinion is fact.

The gift I received after the birth of each of my children was....the child herself. A beautiful human being. That's all I needed. I guess you're just far more materialistic than I am.

My child is the greatest gift I have ever received. My push present was to commemorate a major life event - no different than the earrings my husband surprised me with when I graduated from law school, the ring he bought me when he asked me to marry him, or the ring he gave me the actual day we got married. It’s fascinating how all of those except the push present are acceptable.

Of course, you’re entitled to your own opinion, but resorting to name calling is petty, immature, and a poor argument tactic.

DP

Honestly, I think it's the "push present" term. It's not likely that if you said it was a gift you received to commemorate the birth of your child," anyone would have blinked an eye. But if you called your wedding ring the "spread 'em present" he got you, some people are going to find that both transactional and déclassé. YMMV, of course.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Jeez, this thread is nuts. About twice a year I just have to get another Hermes scarf, so I walk into the DC store and get one. Last one they had to hunt down the one I wanted. I have spent thousands on scarves in dc and Paris, and the DC SA actually recognized me last time. I also got a couple enamel bracelets, but I have never found the shopping experience anything other than normal attentive service one would expect at a luxury store. But I don’t buy big ticket items and I have no desire to buy any of their leather goods as I prefer ferragamo style. But, I can’t do without my scarves. I have easily 20 and they are a staple of my middle age wardrobe.

Ok, help a sister out. How do you wear these. I love scarves but never purchase nice ones bc I’m unsure how to tie them.

If you don’t think you’re a “scarf” person, you can start with folding it up, tying three knots and wearing it like a chunky necklace.

I love them and they’re so practical for work travel. They make your outfit look fresh, and you can also use them to make a pillow, to hide stains, to cover your greasy hair, etc. I machine wash them (except the vintage ones because they bleed so much) so I’m not precious with them.

The truth is the 90cm size is easier to tie if you’re skinny and small. The larger size is more expensive but a little easier to look modern. A big mousseline or cashmere is the easiest to look modern imo.

[Anonymous]

DP

Honestly, I think it's the "push present" term. It's not likely that if you said it was a gift you received to commemorate the birth of your child," anyone would have blinked an eye. But if you called your wedding ring the "spread 'em present" he got you, some people are going to find that both transactional and déclassé. YMMV, of course.

Yeah, I do think the name of it is a big part of the negative reaction for sure. But I’ve also been around this place long enough to know that even if you call it a Baby Bauble, Baby Bling, or Motherhood gift, people still tend to get angry about it. Suggests to me the idea itself is also super upsetting to some folks.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:No, it’s *subjectively* gross to *you*. And that’s just fine. You can elect simply not to get one.

I don’t think Birkin Push Present lady did herself any favors bragging about spending $20k on hers, but plenty of women, myself included love a gift to commemorate the birth of a child and wear those items happily.

It's objective, hon. Making birthing a child a transactional event is gross.

Me: reasonable minds can differ.
You: my opinion is fact.

The gift I received after the birth of each of my children was....the child herself. A beautiful human being. That's all I needed. I guess you're just far more materialistic than I am.

My child is the greatest gift I have ever received. My push present was to commemorate a major life event - no different than the earrings my husband surprised me with when I graduated from law school, the ring he bought me when he asked me to marry him, or the ring he gave me the actual day we got married. It’s fascinating how all of those except the push present are acceptable.

Of course, you’re entitled to your own opinion, but resorting to name calling is petty, immature, and a poor argument tactic.

DP

Honestly, I think it's the "push present" term. It's not likely that if you said it was a gift you received to commemorate the birth of your child," anyone would have blinked an eye. But if you called your wedding ring the "spread 'em present" he got you, some people are going to find that both transactional and déclassé. YMMV, of course.

I had c section should DH have given me a Slice Present?