We all know it's a long battle getting your luxury Hermès bag. It's an entire quest: a movie in which you as the protagonist must fulfill a series of obscure tasks in order to secure yourself a place among the coveted Hermès buyer base. As is painful knowledge to many of us, you cannot simply march into an Hermès boutique and expect to leave with a new Birkin or Kelly. Oh, no. You must go on an entire journey.
Securing an Hermès Bag: A French Odyssey of Fashion and Attrition
And that journey begins with your local Hermès sales associate. Purchasing an Hermès bag is like trying to open a locked door when you don't know where the key is, or what it even looks like, because there are no visible keyholes. You didn't even know there was a door. It's clear, see-through, and nearly invisible to the eye, and you bumped right into it; that's how you found out it existed. This is where many people begin their Hermès journey. But what you need to know is that the Hermès sales associate holds the key. In fact, the Hermès sales associate is the key.
Yes, you must develop a relationship with a sales associate. Do not strive for being simple friends. You must endeavor to be best friends. You must amaze with your extreme breadth and depth of knowledge of the entire Hermès line. You must wow with your style and your fashion, to present an image of Hermès-worthiness. And, perhaps most importantly, you must buy, buy, buy. With every visit, you should purchase an item to establish your shopping "profile" with the store and brand. And you must be smart, because you additionally don't want to let on that you actually want an Hermès bag. Yes, you must also be coy. Purchase a diverse range of items with your visits: jewelry, shoes, clothing, makeup. And then put it all on the next time you visit.
And after you do all this, if all your efforts to enchant, charm, and astonish your all-important sales associate come to flower, then if you're lucky, the next time you step foot into your local Hermès boutique might look a little different. You might be invited into a private room. You might be offered some champagne. And if you've made it to this point in your journey, then you've only your fruits to bear, for it's happened. And it's here. You're here. You will be offered a bag, or two, or three, and asked for your interest in owning one of them. And after much hoopla, hubbub, and fanfare, you will be the proud new owner of a much-cherished, much-beloved new Hermès bag.
Um. Now what?
Now, you must take care of it like your greatest treasure.
Taking Care of an Hermès Bag
When it comes to luxury handbags, it goes beyond simply buying a product; you’re acquiring a wearable work of art that has had significant artistry and expertise put into its creation. Take, for instance, the Hermès Birkin or Kelly bag—icons of craftsmanship that double as investment pieces. While some collectors may lovingly display these bags as trophies, many of us prefer to actually use them. And rightfully so! These bags were made to be worn, loved, and admired. But here’s the catch: if you’re going to adore your Hermès bag, you’ll need to learn how to store it properly. Trust us, your bag deserves nothing less.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Luxury handbags, like the Hermès Birkin or Chanel Classic Flap, are meticulously handcrafted from premium materials. These beauties are designed to last for decades, but only if you give them the care they deserve. Neglecting proper storage could result in heartbreak—and we’re not exaggerating. Improper care can lead to:
- Stretching
- Cracks
- Indentations
- Staining
- Fading
- Discoloration
- Loss of shape
- Scratches
While the process of storing luxury handbags may seem involved, think of it less as a chore and more as an expression of love and preservation for your investment. After all, good care is the ultimate compliment to good craftsmanship.
Step One: The Right Environment
Your Hermès bag is likely made from premium leather (think Togo, Epsom, or Swift) or exotic materials like crocodile or ostrich. These are organic materials that—like your skin—respond to their environment. Treat your bag well, and it will age gracefully with a beautiful patina. Treat it poorly, and it will show its resentment with cracks, sagging, and discoloration.
Here’s your cheat sheet for the perfect storage environment:
- Sunlight: Prolonged direct sunlight is a no-go. It’ll dry out the leather and fade those rich colors. If you’re envisioning your bag bathed in golden rays on your dresser…save it for the imagination.
- Temperature: Extreme heat or cold can wreak havoc, especially on exotic skins like crocodile. You don't want that beautiful leather to wrinkle or crack. Aim for a consistent 60-75°F (a.k.a. bag heaven).
- Water and Humidity: Leather doesn’t do well with water. High humidity can lead to mold and mildew, while low humidity can dry out the leather. The sweet spot? 30-40% humidity. Invest in a dehumidifier or humidifier, depending on your climate, and if you really want to go the extra mile, toss in some silica packets for good measure.
- Dryness: Overly dry environments can make your bag’s leather crack. If you live in a dry or desert climate, consider a humidifier to keep your bag hydrated.
Step Two: Cleaning and Prepping Your Bag
Before your bag takes its beauty rest, it needs a little spa day. Here’s how to get it ready:
- Wash Your Hands: Oils, perfumes, and dirt can transfer to the leather. Clean, dry hands are essential when it comes to handling the bag.
- Buff the Bag: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to gently remove dust and dirt. If there are any stains, a high-quality leather conditioner can help (but don’t overdo it).
- Declutter: Remove everything inside your bag—wallet, charms, gum wrappers (we won’t judge). Empty means safe.
Step Three: The Magic of Dust Bags and Stuffing
If you purchased your Hermès bag new, it likely came with some storage goodies. Use them. Here’s how:
- Dust Bags: These soft, breathable covers are your bag’s best friends. They protect against dust, light, and…unwelcome insect visitors.
- Tissue Paper: Acid-free tissue paper (or storage pillows) helps your bag retain its shape. Stuff gently; overstuffing is a rookie mistake that can stress the seams.
- Hardware Protection: Hermès bags often come with felt pieces to protect hardware. Use them to cover the straps, sangles, and plaques.
Pro Tip: If your bag’s hardware is still wrapped in plastic, consider removing it. Over time, the plastic can cause tarnishing. If you’re worried about scratches, small rubber caps for the feet can work wonders.
The Final Touch
Once your bag is cleaned, stuffed, and shielded, place it in its original Hermès box or a breathable storage container. Resist the urge to seal it in plastic—leather needs to breathe. And remember, every step you take to properly store your Hermès bag is a step towards preserving its beauty, value, and longevity.
In the end, proper storage isn’t just maintenance; it’s a ritual. So go ahead—pamper your bag like the royalty it is. After all, it’s not just a handbag; it’s an heirloom in the making.
Still stuck on that first step of getting a bag in the first place? The Hermès odyssey wearing you down? Well, to be clear, you don't have to go on an entire journey and win the heart of an Hermès sales associate to get a bag. The absolutely easiest way to get a 100% authentic Hermès bag is through us, at Ja Fashion & Co.! We offer the most competitive prices for brands like Hermès, always 100% authenticity guaranteed, and if you're in LA or Orange County, we offer same day delivery on orders placed before 11 AM. So skip the grueling journey and shopping profiles and just buy with us instead! And when you do, check back on this page to make sure your brand-new bag stays fresh for decades (and so that if you decide to sell it, it rewards your tender loving care with more than you paid).