Ah, the Hermes Birkin bag. The epitome of luxury. A handbag lover's dream come true. This iconic accessory is known for its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance and high price tag. Whether you're in the United States or the fashion capital of the world, Paris, obtaining an Hermes Birkin is an experience like no other. You’ll never see a handbag for sale in an Hermes Boutique. They are for display only. So, how do you make one yours? Join us as we delve into the different journeys one might undertake to acquire this coveted treasure in either location or by resale.
Part I: United States
If you're in the United States and want to add an Hermes Birkin to your collection, your journey begins at an Hermes boutique. But make no mistake, it's not a simple stroll-in-and-purchase affair. Hermes stores in the US follow a strict wish list and quota system, adding a commitment of loyalty and spend ratios to the process.
Step 1: Building a Relationship
Establishing a rapport with an Hermes sales associate is essential. Frequent visits to the store, conversations, and showcasing a deep knowledge of Hermes products can help build a connection. But also remember, an associate's goodwill can be a game-changer. If you find a sales associate you mesh with, you might start discussing adding items to your wish list. This can be anything from a scarf to a bag, however to score most bags at Hermes you must meet a quota system. So lets discuss.Step 2: The Quota Bags
The Birkin, Kelly and Constance bags are the 3 Hermes items you cannot walk into a store a purchase, not only because they may be out of stock, but because you need to meet a "quota". In fact, demand is so high that the changes of walking in and receiving a bag offer of any bag is low. Your spend amount and relationship will count greatly towards having your "wish" of a Birkin granted.
Step 3: The Quota System
Perhaps even more important than steps noted earlier is demonstrating your loyalty as a customer by purchasing other items to show a genuine interest in the overall brand and meeting a "quota". Many customers report an average 3:1 spend ratio, meaning Hermes expects you to spend roughly 3 times the amount of a bag to support the brand before a "quota bag" will be offered. Hermes prioritizes purchases from less popular genres like homeware, ready-to-wear and fine jewelry, however shoes and scarves will count towards meeting a quota as well. This shows your commitment and passion for the brand. It's not just about the Birkin; it's about embracing the essence of Hermes.
Step 4: Waiting Patiently
Once your relationship is established and you have a purchase history, it's time to wait patiently. Your sales associate will keep your Birkin on your wishlist, however the order in which customers wishes are granted can depend on all of the above factors. The wait can vary from several months to years, depending on demand, availability, and your positioning on the list. The anticipation builds as you patiently await a message from your sales associate.
Part II: Paris
Paris, the fashion capital of the world, carries an allure and charm and for those fortunate enough to find themselves in this enchanting city, the path to acquiring an Hermes Birkin has a much more straight and narrow path.
Step 1: Pilgrimage to Paris
To embark on this journey, you must find yourself in Paris or somewhere where you can visit one of the Hermes Paris boutiques the following day at any given time.
Step 2: Apply For a Leather Appointment
The waitlist system in the United States doesn't apply in Paris. The day before you are hoping score your Birkin, you will visit the leather appointment application website. This site acts as a lottery system for an appointment and applications can only be submitted with a passport number once a day.
Step 3: Being Chosen
If the Hermes gods are on your side and you are chosen for a leather appointment, you must appear at one of the 3 stores selected at the time of the appointment and must not miss the allotted time slot.
Step 4: The Offer
When you arrive to the store, a sales associate will you show you to the designated leather appointment area, where they will ask you what you are interested in acquiring. Size, type of leather, hardware color and of course type of bag, which in this case in the Birkin, are all important details.
Step 5: Securing the Bag
The is no guarantee that you will be offered the bag of your dreams, however Paris does make dreams come true and the odds are on your side. It may be a slightly different shade or size, but the the best chances in the world are at one of the Paris boutiques. If you are offered a Birkin or any bag in Paris, do not forget to submit your VAT request to save thousands on taxes when bringing your trophy home with you.
Part III: The Ease of Buying an Hermes Birkin on the Resale Market and Sourced through HSC
The Hermes Birkin bag has long been known as the the Holy Grail of handbags. However, discussed earlier, acquiring this one directly from an Hermes boutique can be a challenging journey. Fortunately, the resale market has emerged as a an option for those who do not want to meet a quota or jump through hoops to get the bag.
1. Instant Availability
One of the most significant advantages of the resale market is the instant availability of bags. While securing a Birkin directly from an Hermes store can be quite the feat, the resale market offers a wide range of options ready for immediate purchase. This means you can skip the waitlist and indulge without delay. Some resale sites with impressive stock and guaranteed authentication are Fashionphile, Rebag, Madison Avenue Couture, and Prive Porter.
2. Access to Rare and Limited Editions
The resale market is a treasure trove of rare and limited-edition Birkin bags. These exclusive pieces, featuring unique colors, materials, and finishes, are often reserved for only the most special of clientele.
3. Price Flexibility
While it's true that the price tag of an Hermes Birkin remains high, the resale market offers a certain level of price flexibility. This will depend on factors such as condition, age, and rarity. This flexibility allows you to choose a Birkin that aligns with your budget and personal preferences.
4. Sourcing
If there's a Birkin you love that you can't find via resale or would like additional pricing options, Handbag Social Club offers sourcing, where we will take every element from this blog out of the equation. Simply submit a request and we will handle the rest.
