Understanding the Hermes Buying Rules: The Hermes Game
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Why can’t you want into Hermes and buy a Birkin?
If you’re getting into the luxury world, you wouldn’t be the wiser to know that Hermes is the creme de la creme in the luxury brand world.
However, there are known Hermes buying rules you should know before you think about buying their Birkin or Kelly.
Dubbed the “Hermès Game,” it is an unofficial term that many handbag enthusiasts use to describe the process of buying their bags.
Introduce the idea of the “Hermès Game” as an informal term used by shoppers and handbag enthusiasts to describe the process of trying to obtain the brand's most coveted bags.
We are here to explain this “Hermès Game” and the buying rules so you can maybe get a chance to be offered to buy a Birkin or Kelly.
1. Build a relationship with your sales associate
Like all luxury brand boutiques, the sales associate (SA) will make or break the shopping experience.
You’ll want to have a good relationship with your SA for them to understand your preferences, shopping habits, and interests.
As such, it will include trying to know your favorite color, bag size, type of bag, type of leather, bag style, etc.
Why would they sell to an unknown person asking for a Birkin when they can sell it to one of their known customers?
It can feel exclusive. The Birkin and Kelly are produced in limited stock and colors and are not readily available in any size, color, or leather at retail.
2. There’s no spending amount for the Birkin
Many Hermes shoppers described the Hermes buying rules as showing genuine interest in the brand.
You will naturally build a purchase history over time if you love Hermès scarves, jewelry, shoes, or homeware.
There’s no spending X amount to buy a Birkin. That’s not how it works. There’s even a possibility of that.
3. You can buy the bag that your SA offers
A Hermes bag's availability depends on the boutique, its inventory, and SA can offer.
So, even after building a relationship with your SA, getting offered an Hermes bag of the Birkin or Kelly does not mean you can get the size and color you want. The bag may not perfectly match your preferences.
Controversy: Is it overconsumption?
Why spend thousands of dollars on things you don't actually want to improve your chances of purchasing getting a chance to buy the Birkin?
Someone can genuinely love a Hermes scarf, pair of shoes, or pieces of jewelry. They might be offered a Hermes bag but will decline because they are not into handbag accessories.
But purchasing products only because you believe they will help you get a Birkin is very different.
Don’t feel pressured to buy unnecessary Hermes just for the chance of the Birkin or Kelly. But if you genuinely love all things Hermes, then go ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Can I just walk into Hermès and buy a bag?
No, you cannot walk into a Hermes store and buy their Birkin or Kelly. They may say it’s out of stock if you do not have a purchase history with them. Other bags such as the Evelyne or Picotin may be available to purchase.
Can a normal person buy a Hermès bag?
Normally, you cannot walk into the store and buy their famous Hermes bag like the Birkin or the Kelly. However, their non-quota bags, like the Evelyne or Picotin, may be available to purchase online or in-store. The Birkin and Kelly would need a close working relationship with a sales associate and a purchase history of the store items.
How many Hermes bags can you buy in a year?
Hermès limits you to buying two quota bags per calendar year globally. They track this across all boutiques through your profile with them.
What are the rules for buying a Birkin from Hermès?
To buy a Birkin from Hermès, you cannot walk into their store to purchase one. You need to have a purchase history with a sales associate to get a chance to buy one.
In closing
The Hermes game buying rules sound complicated and a little convoluted, but it’s about building a genuine relationship with the brand and your sales associate.
While there’s no guaranteed spending amount for the Birkin or Kelly, a strong purchase history and showing genuine interest in Hermès can improve your chances of being offered one.
However, don’t feel pressured to buy an item you don’t want for the opportunity to buy their famous bags.
Always consider preloved Hermes! They are much more affordable and available right at your fingertips!