The Hermes Effect

[@CaitlinPawlowski]

I think the fact that I don’t have an Hermes’ in my city is probably a blessing in disguise 😂 I’m as spell bound as I can be simply from looking on the website and instagram resellers… but that’s as far as it goes for me now

[@seabreeze4559]

trauma bonding

[@ainalim60]

Rolex also play the game as well

[@L-K-Jellyfish]

I can give you my anthropological perspective on it. Magic. All products are seen by the purchaser as having a certain intangible essence and the characteristics of that essence is expressed through advertising, viral marketing or word-of-mouth hype. This is on top of whatever its physical characteristics are. The purchaser combines the item's essence with their own. Once upon a time valueable items came to a person through achievement or as a gift. It gave the thrill of confirming the goodness or value of oneself. When people get caught up in the Hermes game they get the feeling of achievement and confirmation of their place in the community. A feeling of relief, joy and contentment. If you feel that joy fade too quickly and start running after the next luxury handbag, I would advise looking at your life to see what is stealing your joy from you so regularly so that you have to keep purchasing magical items to feel included or wanted.

[@ohthankg-dforthebourgeoisi9800]

What grabs me about some of Hermes bags is the leather color. The neutral colors don’t attract me at all. But the beautiful pink purple colors oh boy! But you’re not guaranteed to get the color you want so.. nah.

[@rev1595]

If you walk through New York City with a Berkin Bag, you're not just saying 'I can afford this' you're also saying 'I spent the money it takes to spend the money it takes to afford this. In other words 'I'm rich! Are you?' I think the Pretty Woman story, being looked up and down, may have created a sense of unfairness. You were judged before even entering the store. You probably left feeling that you should have that bag too... That sense of justice could create an enclosed loop. 'I deserve that bag! Who are they to look me up and down and tell me I don't deserve it?'

[@Jiffypop]

True story: I walked into the Hermes store on Madison Ave in NYC. I was looking for a particular item (not a quota bag). The SA rudely told me they didn’t have it and she “thought” it had been discontinued. I left feeling disappointed and dismissed. I told my husband about the experience. He (middle-aged, business type dude) casually strolled into the same store the next day and just as casually strolled out after purchasing the item. He was so happy to give it to me! I was equally as happy when I returned it! I’ll never spend a dime at Hermes. I know they won’t feel it, but I’m not about to let someone treat me like that.

[@antoa5825]

I live in NYC and have been to that store. The way they treat customers is ridiculous. I went in looking for a dog carrier, collar and leash I had seen on their website. They were cute, looked well made, and different than the standard collars I see in my neighborhood. I wondered around the store for half an hour without anyone saying a word to me, and when I finally got someone's attention they were like "we have to talk to the person that worked withe the saddlery side and they weren't in and would call me, Needless to say, I never heard a peep.

[@L-K-Jellyfish]

I've heard that they don't believe women should be buying their own handbags.

[@sammierose1150]

@@L-K-Jellyfish what absolute nonsense! 😤 (not that don’t believe that they think like that - more so that I can’t believe some people have that thought process)

[@Eddyvoyage365]

WOW happened to me a few times same story

[@MrsKastell]

Congratulations! I admire your decision. The effect of this treatment on socially insecure people has been studied and it is the unpopular at american high school syndrome paradox. The worse a person is treated by the “popular” ones’ gang, the more they want to join them. Better go get treatment than keep on knocking on the locked doors of the slaughterhouse.

[@CindyyCindz]

Am I the only one that things the Birkin and Kelly bags look like old lady bags? I personally think they only reason they are desirable is because its so hard to get one. I think honestly the allure is really that it (realistically or not) shows you are "wealthy" because you've worked your way to get one, and actually Hermes's tactic of this is what has made it so hyped up. If Hermes wasn't a brand, and H&M had designed this bag, I don't think I'd purchase it

[@lucilesautot7740]

I'm with you on that. I love handbags and purses but I generally don't like the style of luxury bags. So I think I'm too middle class to fall for the hermes effect 😅

[@khwezik3894]

Hermes seems to go with the 'treat them mean to keep them keen' as a motto.

[@Territsar]

I don't get it 😂 never liked the bags

[@GruvyGrlz]

This is so ridiculous on so many levels. It’s handbag. Who needs to be treated poorly or be coerced to buy useless and expensive products in order to bribe someone to consider you for a handbag!! What a statement on humanity.

[@kathyguyle3569]

So spot-on 👌🏻

[@dreamcatcher75418]

Think of how much good someone would do if they donated that money to charity and bought a reasonably priced purse from the mall. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@GruvyGrlz]

Exactly!!

[@AnUrbanGypsy]

@@dreamcatcher75418Depends on the charity. Many siphon off so much in ‘fees’, as little as 10% reaches those in need 😞.

[@jennifermcmillan2588]

If only the bag world would boycott these behaviors .. but some ppl are desperate to be seen a certain way … they will always fall for the BS .

[@Robbie_LeMeow]

The idea that a customer has to 'build a relationship' with a SA to show that they have enthusiasm for the brand, is so completely ludicrous. It's a brand using their customers as puppets for kicks. Hermes is not Jesus or Fairy godmother. I would never do this to myself. Nor would I ever let a SA look me up and down without calling them on their rudeness. Pre-loved in the way to go!

[@Tanya482]

Oh F that lol. Even if my budget allowed me to get a Birkin...my pride wouldn't

[@jennifermcmillan2588]

Agree .. they’re a holes !!!Im not begging to spend my money 😂 that is hilarious if you think about it … absurd and once ppl stop falling for it they will stop acting stupid .

[@contemporarydncethot0382]

You can buy a second hand birkin quite easily for far less than you'd pay for full price. And I've heard Hermes doesn't even let you PICK the bag you want, you have to take or leave what they offer you even if it's ugly

[@pinksmoke234]

They’re so ugly too idk why anyone would want to be seen carrying one around 😅

[@SometimesPerplexed]

One interesting shift I’ve seen over my lifetime (I’m old) : When I was a teen and a young adult, higher end designer items were mostly considered the province of older women, as a signifier that someone in her forties and beyond had “arrived” and was fashionable.

[@dickiegreenleaf6426]

You hit the nail on the head for me with your supposition that some people are attracted to things that others can't have. I was a customer of Hermes long before anyone really knew what the brand was (here where I live) - no one I knew even knew what a Kelly or a Birkin was, and when I showed them, they all thought it was a very ugly handbag, and a waste of money. This was back in the very late 1980's, early 1990's. I own a collection of around 10 bags, almost exclusively Kelly's and Birkins, and never ever use them anymore, simply because of the popularity of the brand, and what the bags have become. They used to be very under-the-radar, and are now quite the opposite. The Hermes customer service has always been 'aloof,' even in the early days, but the last time I visited a store here I was pretty disgusted at what the client "service" has become. The new culture of "influencers," celebrities and new money have stricken these old brands/houses off the list of places to patronise for many people, and the faithfulness towards these brands of their old clients has disappeared for the most part. Hermes has sadly become "loud" and seemingly quite common.

[@AA-iy4gm]

So your grudge seems to be that the bag became common, among commoners and new money as you said? In contrast to what, old money? As if its any better. Also you were their customer back before it was so "in" which makes you what, cool? ahead of the times? That all still sounds so uppity or at the very least like humble bragging.

[@i.l.746]

All I know is that you have a vintage collection 😍

[@LoveAndSnapple]

@@AA-iy4gm So what? Sometimes gatekeeping is necessary. It doesn't have to necessarily be about fashion, but anytime ANYTHING becomes oversaturated, especially with people who don't understand the culture, then the overall thing can become insufferable. There are so many things to idolize and enjoy in the world. Not everyone can enjoy the same things and that's okay. Also, it's not like when things are accessible it's all that much better. Look at all the people who collect Stanley cups. Do you think it's good for the planet that one woman should have 40 cups but just in different colors? Those cups are $45 and even though they're not Birkins will feel just as uppity and braggy as you claim this woman to be. Commonors stunt on each other ALL the time so there's no point in trying to shame one person for being a "have" and not a "have not".

[@bmo8695]

You are exactly like me. As a French I would be embarrassed to wear a LV Hermes or CD bags.

[@ojyochan]

It kind of makes me low-key sad to see that women who have the means to buy new, car-priced handbags are actually spending their time this way. There's really nothing better to do? It's depressing.

[@LotusesGalaxyOcean]

I think one aspect of why this is an issue is a lack of skill based or creative hobbies.

[@Leesoko]

Wow, I had never thought of it like this

[@flonotflow]

@@LotusesGalaxyOcean nailed it! I just had this discussion with a friend about conspicuous consumption in general. Zero creativity. Sheep that want to be like everyone else.

[@kathyguyle3569]

It's really just so dumb and self-sabotaging to let any brand treat you this way......for the "privilege" of spending THOUSANDS of $$$$$ on their products 🙄

[@afifaloutfie1888]

I think it may be a similar psychological trigger to those who stay in abusive relationships…. Not quite the same, but some of it resonates to this direction to me…

[@kaicruz9912]

As someone who also loves luxury, I will never understand the hype around Hermes considering how disgusting they treat customers. The style doesn’t appeal to me personally either. When I fly business class, or stay at a luxury resort, you expect to be treated well. Not the opposite. When I go to Chanel, Louis Vuitton etc, I don’t feel like I’m being treated poorly. I had to go to Hermes one time because my step daughter wanted a pair of shoes and I was treated so poorly it was infuriating. Hermes is like that bad boy effect that girls go for. And I’m just not into that. I would never understand it. When you are spending at a certain level you just expect a certain level of quality not just on the product itself but from the overall experience too. So it’s a NO for me. The “game” or whatever you want to call it is ridiculous and I’m sorry, I really don’t understand why anyone would even support it. I also love handbags and I am loyal to the brands that I do love. But Hermes is just not it. What they are doing, this game? Having to make you buy stuff before you can even be on a waitlist for a bag? That is actually not luxury. And it’s not classy in any way. It makes them look desperate for money. It’s vulgar. And sounds more like a scam.

[@randomlyswatching9481]

Mlm type isn't. I am a LV person l like to smile and be treated as a human😊

[@J.J.13]

Agree 👍.

[@sexyalleycat]

This 🎯

[@NA._]

I love Hermes, though I neither like nor would ever spend the money for a B/K/C. I normally buy online, but have been in to Hermes 5 times. I was always dressed casually with my Kipling cross body, and have always been treated well. Twice I was offered water when it was hot, though I purchased something only once when offered water. Once I was given a perfume sample. Once the SA spent a half hour showing me scarves. The only part of the service I didn't like is that the SAs didn't seem to know the name and price of some of the items, and that includes SAs I overheard talking with other customers. I've purchased twice in store, and numerous times online. The benefits of in-store are that you get to see the item IRL and if sized, you get to try it on. But online gives refunds as opposed to credit for in store returns. Online is also stocked better.

[@dionbp]

I work in perfume and over the Christmas/school break i would say 80% of my customers were teenage boys all aspiring to buy $500 colognes. All of them coming in, all looking the same all wanting the same fragrances and because of the price point they are all aspiring/ working towards their collections of fragrances. It's almost like a cult like mentality and THEY HAVE TO HAVE THEM. Secondly, i have always been fashion obsessed but working in retail, seeing some people with really expensive bags and designer stuff but still looking like crap has really taken the shine off it all for me. Just because it has a brand doesn't necessary mean that it makes you look better but i think some people "hide" behind these purchases. They think the bag will make them better than they are in a way.

[@LoveAndSnapple]

I agree. Because if you're an heiress and you have a Birkin at 20 years old the bag is just going to look so "off" on you. It's a bag of maturity and "old world" taste. Some people swathe themselves in brands that don't necessarily "suit" them and they either look too old, too young, or just displaced. Not to mention, not every fragrance is meant to pair well with everyone's phermones. Some people will smell delectable and some will straight up stink.

[@markusgorelli5278]

It occurs to me that there are many people walking around wearing designer and secretly thinking that they are the envy or everyone around. And here I am, completely oblivious. lol.

[@miao-m9q]

I m curious. If the person is looking like crap and without the designer bag, will he be looking like homeless or someone can be taken lightly? 😂

[@monikak7327]

The idea that a store gives you "an opportunity" to buy a bag is wild. And the fact that people buy even if said bag is not exactly what they asked for, is literally insane. Some people just need to really sit down, look deep inside themselves, and reevaluate their life proirities.

[@Lifeisapartydresslikeit]

But this is the way it is for many items! Even cars. Ferrari, Porsche etc. even for Rolex. Even for certain IVY league or Private schools. This is not new news. As much as I do not agree with it why would you want everyone having access to the same opportunities you do if you’re a celebrity for example? Or someone who is elite? I understand sometimes this is the way life is. Sigh 😔

[@tm6408]

If only these people took a fraction of the money they planned on spending on an Hermes bag and spent it on a good therapist.

[@bettie2803]

It is not just Hermes that plays on our insecurities. All luxury items do the same thing. So sick of the “quality “ talk. Stop it. No bag has quality worth $20,000 to carry your keys and water bottles in it

[@larp1075]

I guess rich ppl just like to be humiliated 😂

[@Nirishascorner]

So true!

[@yisun1725]

I can not express how thankful I am to find you on youtube and potentially cured my obession/disease over uneccessary luxury goods.

[@cgb25]

In the watch world, similar to Hermes effect is Rolex. I have a couple of Rolex’s. I’m a guy. So, long story short, I had offered a Rolex Seadweller after my SA said that I will be offered a Yachtmaster having a “strong purchase history.” When I asked what that meant, he said I will “maybe” offered a Yachtmaster as my third Rolex watch from the store.

[@nataliesummers6365]

I refused to be in these games. I wanted birkin for awhile but I knew I would never want to spend crazy amount of money just for a bag. What I did was I paid probably around 10% of a birkin price to get a customised handmade bag with same type of leather and design but without the logo. No regrets.

[@UniverseBlackHole]

That is exactly what I would do . Bc the things that I like is the feeling,the look, the shape,the fit ,not the name.

[@wheiraye]

There are plenty of bags a-la Birkin for a great price :)

[@africocoalux722]

Wanting to be attached to something that is perceived as a status symbol will always be a thorn to human society

[@dreamcatcher75418]

These bags are just marketing bullshit. Hermes is laughing at you all all the way to the bank. 🤑🤑🤑🤑

[@seabreeze4559]

status signalling?

[@LoveAndSnapple]

@@seabreeze4559 Wearing or possessing a material good that somehow says "Look at me, look at me!" It could be a bag, a boat, a watch, a car, a new pool, those Stanley cups, or just a front facing label to SHOW that you have something. The item is sending out a signal that you can afford something and that you must be wealthy.

[@rimun5235]

@@dreamcatcher75418 I reckon anyone spending $15k on a bag doesn't care.

[@User9781yt]

The amount of effort you put into organizing all the other creators content and reference is Impressive. Props to that 🔥

[@specksyo]

As a person who lives on the breadline, I find it unimaginable the amount people are willing to spend on something so unnecessarily materialistic

[@bf441]

This is a great video. I’m a bit older but I think social media plays a huge role in all of this. It concerns me as a mother.

[@HandbagDiva]

I was obsessed with Hermes & getting a Birkin. I had an epiphany that this “ journey “ was causing me stress & it wasn’t bringing me pleasure. I sold all of my non quota bags & am very happy to care less if I never have an Hermes bag anymore.

[@alisonuy2604]

Hermes’ journey or games is crazy, but it works! It plays on human psychology. Win for Hermes, win for reseller. It is a first world game for people who have disposable income.

[@themargaretshelton]

I think you raise some excellent and fascinating points about the human need for "flexes", like exclusivity or rarity or price or whatever. Like, this is proof that I belong, I'm worthy, I'm Somebody. I'm a jewelry head myself and former makeup "addict" and former office supply problem buyer and erstwhile sorority member. Yes. I do think it's just IN some of us. I enjoy your content, and I'm loving following your changing relationship with things.

[@CaitlinPawlowski]

Thank you so much Margaret 🥰

[@heloslip]

I like Hermes, though I’ve never been into a boutique despite living very close to one. There is always a queue basically around the block that seems to take forever. Nothing is worth that time wasted imo. In saying that, I queued for an hour for an Aldi sale on Dyson vacuums once! 😂

[@luisahus7003]

Great video, Caitlin! I do like luxury things, such as designer clothes or luxury bags, but the Hermès game is one that I’d never play. My pride is too high to let a sales associate treat me badly or force me to buy useless stuff in order to be considered to spend ridiculous money on a bag. There is just so much more to life than material items… but I have to say, that the study with the kids really hit a nerve for me. I remember when I was a little kid, my parents and I were on a weekend trip (5 hours from home) and I forgot one of my favorite cuddly toys at the hotel. When I realized it, I freaked out, so much so that my parents decided to drive back to the hotel and pick it up. I would have never considered a replacement.

[@meganoleary584]

The fact that anyone would spend $40,000 on a bag that was probably made for less than $50 is just so stupid

[@sarahwales6276]

This video was very thought provoking, something to ponder. I also wonder how much of this desire is also on a subconscious level. 💐

[@camille6910]

I really do love your videos because you are so articulate and so well-versed in a lot of these things which makes your critiques so poignant but you don't deny that you have been taken in by it too. As someone a little (very little) younger than you who is also going through a similar transformation in terms of my buying habits and tastes but who is still very "into" luxury, it's really helpful to hear your thoughts on it all. It's a perspective that isn't normally talked about.

[@allthingstrea6419]

I will never beg someone to take my money 😐

[@mariagimalaiskaya]

I have a set of handmade bags from one Turkish brand. A small one, a middle one, and a big “shopping” bag. Also I have a necesser and a cute tiny bag (for keys or earphones for example) from it. All these items cost me about 500 $. They don’t have a huge label on them. And they are unique. People often ask me where I bought a big one. I don’t understand how Hermes can demonstrate such behaviour to their customers. I was once at Hermes store, I needed to buy a perfume. A seller was very nice to me. But she noted my data on computer for future purchases, and I couldn’t buy just one bottle of perfume without it. It was so strange

[@jennifermcgee8621]

Hermes was so much more alluring back in the early 2000’s when you had to be “somebody” to get a bag (ie.an actress, supermodel, CEO). There really were 5-year waiting lists. I agree with the rise of social media along with the rise in prominence of the pre-loved market have made the bags more common. The allure no longer exists.

[@AA-iy4gm]

I wonder if men had that kind of a trivial brand product waiting for them when they made something of themselves...probably not, otherwise it would be common knowledge, but why women continue to go for that despite now having so many options that were fought for is just disappointing.

[@no.reply_]

@@AA-iy4gm Fancy watches are the equivalent for men except they cost way more than luxury bags

[@rimun5235]

⁠@@AA-iy4gm Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet all have egregious waiting lists too. You don't just get to walk into store and buy one. You need a client relationship. It's the same for exclusive cars. Some watch models, the wait time is years! The same too for cars. There really is a price point for exclusivity.

[@dahliacheung6020]

@@AA-iy4gm ​​⁠​⁠ Oh yeah. Watches, chains (Cuban links, anyone?) and other jewelry, sneakers, and fountain pens are among the many things men lose their minds over just like women do over Hermes bags. I thought this was pretty well known but maybe not. I think blowing that kind of money on some accessory is kind of too ridiculous for me, but then I _am_ a frugal person, and if people have the money and want to spend it that way who am I to judge them for it?

[@jochenkraus7016]

​@dahliacheung6020 I think you can add cars to your list. Like Andrew "What color is your Bugatti?" Tate's, well, Bugatti.

[@blt565]

I can afford a nice high price tag bag twice a year, I cannot afford to play that Hermes game. Spend money to beg for the opportunity to spend more. I will buy from the resell market from someone they coerced into buying 😂

[@CaitlinPawlowski]

😂 I totally understand your point. The resale market is too wild for me personally but I definitely think it’s technically a cheaper route to getting something which is wild to me

[@misswiktoria]

I also live in a little town. It’s just 4000 citizens and it’s a small country. I have seen ONE birkin out in the streets years ago, it was in the capital, Edinburgh. Also we used to have one Hermes store in Scotland that has shut down few years ago. They sold only one Birkin for £20,000ish and only 16 people were on their bag waiting lists. You’re right about social media making it seem every other person has Hermes goods, its distorted reality

[@onekookycookie1102]

Hello! Love your channel and content :) in my twenties I knew of luxury brands but did not really know what LUXURY meant. I knew of brands like Chanel and Dior etc but did not really know the history behind them and the products and experiences they offered. It wasn’t until I read the book ‘Deluxe: How Luxury Lost It’s Lustre’ that I finally had a better idea of what LUXURY meant. In that book HERMES was mentioned as one of the brands that still retained its prestige. I remember thinking if I ever had funds HERMES will be my first luxury purchase. But unfortunately my twenties were filled with bad financial choices. It was a paycheck to paycheck sort of living. After one particular night where I had to walk 4 kilometres hone in the early hours of the morning because I had no money for a taxi I knew I had to change my relationship with my money. My focus on spending sort of shifted and saving became my priority. I also stopped comparing my self to others . I’m in a better financial place now and I still have the goal of buying a little something from HERMES to sort of fulfil the dream I had in my twenties (a bangle maybe?) but now my version of LUXURY is peace of mind. The knowledge that if there is ever an emergency I won’t be in a state of panic. I also like the security knowing all my bills will be under control. I also came to the realisation that the most authentic ‘thing’ to strive for is an honest and genuine relationship with your money, once you have that any other material things and experiences that you can comfortably afford and purchase (without sacrificing your saving and emergency funds) are just the added bonuses that sweetens your life.

[@missshananicole]

I think it’s gatekeeping. I don’t think Hermes anticipated the every day person would afford their product. I will be honest, my circles don’t care about luxury- so it’s an individual investment for me. That’s why quiet luxury is a wave (another flex & form of gatekeeping). I don’t want a Birkin and like the Kelly but can’t imagine spending that kind of money. I wanted a Hermes Picotin and my SA sourced it for me in 4 weeks and he never tried to sell me anything else. He was amazing and I felt great about my experience. So relaxed. I really want a Chanel but my logical brain says “you missed it” go pre-loved. Because they’re becoming so crazy expensive. We’ll see. I appreciate this video Caitlin! 💛

[@dahliacheung6020]

It's absolutely gatekeeping. Creating fomo though scarcity and gatekeeping by only giving bags to the worthy.

[@Alchemizingg]

If you can afford a $30k+ bag, you're more than likely used to *having access.* You fly private, you're in VIP, etc etc. Inventing the feeling of inaccessibility for these people is like catnip, it's a solid marketing strategy to hit on the insecurity of a demographic that is used to paying off their insecurities and then charging them obscene prices to quell their existential dread. It's Violet in WIlly Wonka's factory drowning herself in chocolate in a frenzy to consume with no thought, just desire.

[@joannarondon4594]

Friend. There are people that buy these bags on credit and they live in their parents' basement.

[@megan7792]

It’s interesting because unless you’re in that world it means absolutely nothing. I think that luxury bags are pretty ugly. I honestly do not think that I have a brand vice…. I was raised in a pretty affluent household. My parents never cared about brands. They emphasized spending money wisely and buying quality. I also have a personality where I prefer to fade into the background and not stand out so I rather people not notice me which means I typically don’t seek approval or disapproval. I don’t want to disrupt the status quo

[@ckn56]

Thorstein Veblen coined the term conspicious consumption is his book: The Theory of the Leisure Class: An Economic Study in the Evolution of Institutions. His argument was that divisions in society come originally from our tribal and fuedal origins. Whilst other classes consume to survive and basically only buy the things that they need, those in the 'leisure class' at the top of society consume to display their social status. Spending resources on something that is not 'utilitatiran' proves that you have an excess of resources and belong to that 'leisure class.'

[@Selene-cl9gy]

I bought the Teddy Blake Kelly dupe and through that bag, I realized I would hate the Kelly bag. It was annoying to carry. And my Hermes Kelly and Birkin desires died with that, and so did a lot of my desire for designer items.

[@kathrynknipe6615]

Something that has worked for me is: 1) somehow allowing myself to own or believing that I already own my coveted item, 2) once I truly budget for and believe I own the item, then once I open my mind to all other beautiful items on earth, I often find something that I love more. It’s a trick to get around the dupe problem. Appreciate your candor and insight.

[@rebeccabartonhandbaglover]

***** Your editing on this video must have taken you days. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thank you for posting this video. Great job !!!!! The topic, the value, and the aliens... FABULOUS !! Hello from America * * * * * * * *

[@SwimsWithWhales31]

Someone may have already commented this, but there have been studies that show when the sales people in a high end store are rude to the customers, the customers are more apt to spend more money there. The customers feel the need to prove themselves and the worse they're treated, the more they feel a need to spend more money there, as a "see I CAN afford stuff" kind of action. It's a very strategic marketing ploy, whether they admit to marketing tactics or not...

[@AshleeVirgo]

Thank you for this Video !!! I have never owned a Hermes’ anything but have wanted a bag for the longest time. I have also been on a similar journey as yourself, considering and taking the time to self reflect as to why I want these things, and do they bring me joy or am I wanting them so others see me a certain way. I think you nailed this video awesome job thank you

[@Magical_Thinking]

OMG, where have you been all this time I’ve been on KZbin? Your commentaries are spot on and exactly the type of discussions that women everywhere need to hear. Yay!!! I’m so glad I found you. We need to get you an international following… Ok, luv ya, bye!

[@natachaguerra472]

Im so happy with this content! Its eye opening!

[@CaitlinPawlowski]

Thank you so much! X

[@mandyshangalang1398]

Loving these in-depth discussions Caitlin. 😘❤️

[@An0503]

I just don’t understand why people do this to themselves.This is ridiculous. At the end of the day it’s just a bag .If I am willing to give them soo much money they should be happy and should thank me for that.If they make me spend a ridiculous amount of money just to have a chance to be offered a bag and after all these they make me feel like a crap NO thanks.I would give that much money to a craftsman to make me a bag which will be my perfect bag with my own Unique design.🤷🏼‍♀️ Am I the only one?

[@NottheotherAmber]

I’ve asked on other KZbin vlogs. The common explanation is they don’t want to risk buying a fake on the resale market. But isn’t that’s what buyer protection is for? AMEX, PayPal, eBay, and more all have money back guarantees. Get it double authenticated and move on instead of spending sometimes up to 4:1.

[@kathyguyle3569]

EXACTLY. If I even wanted to spend that much $$$$ on a handbag, you had better believe that I would be choosing what every inch of it would be made of, and what it would look like......and I would not accept it unless it was absolute perfection, in MY opinion 👌 💯

[@randomlyswatching9481]

I think 🤔 if they treat customers like that how do they treat workers. I think and I never went that route.

[@WendyRoth-r3c]

If you all stopped playing this game, allowing people to treat you this way, it would end very quickly. The brands need you to buy their products. If you don't they disappear, even Hermes. You have the power, not them, so stand up for yourself and take back your power.

[@qwertyyxoxo]

Agreed! Time to boycott Hermes!

[@lovelysecretboxes8173]

I’m french and one day I walked into FSH in Paris just to ask to try a bag and has been offered one, (I have a YT french channel to explain that with videos…) I leave the boutique with my birkin into my orange box and white shopping bag with NO purchase history. I have as well a local boutique in my town (Tours) and I put my name on a list I get my bag in 4 months, so for me no game at hermes 🤷🏼‍♀️ perhaps in other countries but I get my bags pretty easily with no effort they just don’t have many artisans making them now.

[@jennifyliving5511]

I have a weird relationship with Hermes. I’ve had some of the best shopping experiences in Hermes stores and some of the worst. Rome, Rome airport, and stores I visited in Austria and Germany were my worst experiences. Yet my visit to the store in Venice resulted in my second handbag offer and my first handbag purchase! It was a fantastic experience! I’ve always enjoyed shopping in my usual store in Orange County, CA… but my SAs are always leaving. I really have given up on the “game” (though I played for several years) and now I just focus on purchasing what I love when I am ready to purchase. I’ve realized I’m more than worthy of purchasing whatever I desire and I don’t need an SA to determine it’s the case. I’m just me when I shop and no longer act like the brand or the items are above me. I also dislike how many fakes and look alikes are out there now and it no longer feels special. I will also say the handbag I purchased - a piece of hardware on it (a snap) broke within a week 😑 and then a pair of gloves I purchased also had the hardware detach. Which wasn’t thrilling considering the cost. I also kinda think the SAs can sense desperation and they drag out spending with customers they know will do it to try and get the bag they want.

[@michellewasthere]

No accessories should be breaking. That's sad. The whole luxury game is these days. Quality takes a nose dive and the pawns still fawn all over it.

[@marygonzalez-pf7cb]

I’m in LOVE with your wine rack. Looks like a luxury ladies accessory 🥰😘😻😺

[@catcreme]

I've always viewed luxury items like these as something otherworldly and inaccessible. I'm puzzled how a working-class or even middle-class woman could spend 30 000$ on a bag - to me, this is only reserved for ultra-rich who can afford frivolous spending like this. I'm still like a voyeur in this world and don't fully understand it, but I'm fascinated by the passion and reasoning behind the luxury industry.

[@TechSav18]

I’m loving your new series of deep dives!!😊

[@r-anne7375]

Range Rover did this to my husband and I. We were considering buying one, but wanted to take a test drive. They didn't have one to test at that time, and very few in the dealership to view. No one came over to talk to us inside . Finely we went into the office to inquire. We were told that they order new vehicles for previous buyers that reorder new ones on a yearly basis, and if they don't want the new one, they would call us and then we could purchase it. Well, they did call us. Too late, we already bought a BMW. Their loss. We felt they were very snobby, and after that experience, we just don't want to do business with a company like that. Exclusivity cost them a sale and possibly a long time customer.

[@albawaterhouse]

I had no idea that any of this was a thing! Thanks for explaining it so well, my mind is blown.

[@Dwightinho56]

It’s not true that only Paris offers bags. I had zero purchase history with Hermès when I bought my Kelly. I’m in Oslo🇳🇴 an the store had just opened a year before at the time. They had a lot of colors and bags to choose from. Maybe the timing was just a luck of the draw. I don’t know, but when I later learnt how difficult it is for people other places to get the desired bag, and that there almost is an «entrance fee» to be «allowed» to be offered one, I decided that if it ever came to a second bag purchase from Hermès I would refrain from buying. I can’t defend a system like that. If my money wasn’t good enough I would take it elsewhere. It is quite clear that the possibility of buying a bag in store seems to be very different from country to country. I don’t know if the system with purchase history has been implemented here too since then, but I am not sure if that would work well with customers and customs here. Apart from Hermès leathers and colors I find their bags quite plain and «grown up» so I have not ventured into a second one. These days Birkins and Kellys are everywhere and not so special any more. At least not to me.

[@LittleMissDeeDee]

I can’t help but think these people have low self esteem and get a sense of personal satisfaction and validation when Hermes “blesses” them with a bag. I know this “game” exists in North America, and that the UK/Europe only require a customer opens a wishlist with them, but even that’s ridiculous to me. I guess these extreme practices is what allows Hermes to keep exclusivity without arbitrarily raising their prices like Chanel, but it’s still ridiculous for people to experience this level of emotional irregularity over a handbag!

[@mariafindlux1512]

Actually, we do not have low self esteem. The heart wants what the heart wants.

[@AA-iy4gm]

I completely agree with you, it's external validation they are after, whether someone has a small budget or a big budget, when they shop mainly to show off and be competitive, it's external validation they are seeking because the internal self worth and sense of purpose isn't there.

[@Ulfscher]

I remember when you could simply walk in to FSH and ask for a bag - you might not get a BKC, but it was possible. I was offered Bs a few times as a walk-in or after a small purchase. This is not likely to happen today… I'm not interested in playing games, but that's easy to say for me because I have my HAC and other H bags already.

[@TekindusT]

Male viewer here, interested in (luxury) watches and landed in your channel a while ago as I started venturing in this space. I can guarantee you this is not a female-exclusive phenomenon. Your video could be perfectly talking about the Rolex game if we changed all the “Hermès” for “Rolex” and “SA” for “AD (authorised dealer)”. The Rolex game is literally the same you’ve been describing and the effects and uncertainty it causes in potential buyers is exactly the same. The Game is just another marketing strategy, one that works awfully well. Rolex produces millions of watches a year and nevertheless the “desirable” steel sports models are never available. Watch forums are full of dudes who “got the call” for that piece they were waitlisted for 2 years ago only after spending big in “undesirable” pieces at that specific AD, and full of dudes wondering if they did well on rejecting a piece their AD offered them because they weren’t sure they could afford it at that point of time.

[@SuperBjagger]

These is definately giving me "cult" vibes 😂😢. Like what??? Am in awe, just like the aliens would be. That lady bought an ash tray that can't even hold ash😂😅. Praying for deliverance ooouuuwwiii!!

[@CrustyUgg]

Honestly, even though I am addicted to shopping, there is nothing that I will wait for or go crazy for or be upset if I can't find it in my size or if they stop making some thing etc. I have never waited in a line for something and I never would

[@OlesyaBagStory]

A bit out of topic, but still related to influence, I had Gucci Marmont bag and I sold it because everybody was saying it is done, and that time I have not had any new Chanel, so I have put my money towards Chanel even though I loved my Marmont… 5 years later I went and bought Marmont again although in black on black and soooo happy with it, out all of the bags I sold it was the only one I truly missed, and having now a lot of bags I wear it like crazy. It is not about popularity, not about status, but for me it is incredible bag. My Birkin and Kelly I rarely wear though as well as Chanel. I think I just reached the point I just dont give a shit what other people say, not totally, but majorly. “You” say this is out of trend-fine, say “is not worth it”-fine, “all should stop wearing logos” -fine, fine for “you”, but not for me.

[@AnUrbanGypsy]

I have been eyeing the Gucci black on black camera bag recently and think it’s lovely so will probably buy it come winter. I also won’t feel like a target for theft when I wear it and it fits my lifestyle. Glad you repurchased what you love. Don’t let SM dictate anything to you again 😂.

[@skiandcomment]

I just love their scarfs and color pallets. They’re beautiful, and sometimes it’s worth the splurge.

[@iris_luxlover]

Wow! What a great video! Your editing is beautiful 🫶 May I ask which app you use to edit? I talked a little bit about this topic as well on one of my most recent videos “bags I would borrow from other KZbinrs” It was a small segment. But what an amazing video you did 👏🏻

[@soriamcarrillo1539]

I am 47 years old I have always bought designer bags, not crazy just 1-3 a year. I remember how quality was NOTHING compared to what it is today. LV, Chanel, TB, etc bags are so cheaply made nowadays.... That being said Hermes is the only house that reminisces me of quality and craftsmanship. I do buy primarily pre-loved but I do like some of their contemporary pieces as well. I have been selling all my other houses bags and just keeping Hermes and other non famous brands that are amazing like 10.03.53, Polene, Songmont, ARRHE etc

[@CaitlinPawlowski]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, definitely agree with you on the quality

[@SaharaKnows]

Hermes is basic. Keep lying to yourself.

[@brain1fluff]

Serious question, do you think buying 1-3 handbags a year is only a small amount?

[@soriamcarrillo1539]

@@brain1fluff In the line of work I do it is.

[@brain1fluff]

@@soriamcarrillo1539 cool 😎

[@Etegononcuro]

You influenced me to buy a red Lady Dior bag a couple of years ago. I wore it the total sum of 4 times since then. Love your content though 😂

[@tiffanyh4364]

This is an intriguing video. I often wonder why so many “average” people spend huge amounts of money on luxury goods. I will say I think if you don’t live in a large metropolitan area, it is much easier not to get sucked into this game. I live in a medium sized city in the midwest of the US and I have never seen someone walking around my city with an Hermes bag. I see bags like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, but true high quality luxury like Hermes and Chanel are just not visible, so I don’t have the pressure of feeling like everyone around me has one and I don’t. It allows me to choose bags purely based on what I actually like and not what is going to make me feel socially included.

[@adrianamendiola6319]

I never comment to videos, ever, but I have to with this one. You are spot on! I am a handbag addict and always try to think why, but it is an insecurity and I am trying to fulfill something that is missing! BTW I did buy the Steve Madden Chyore sandals and then the real ones from Hermes and no doubt the real sandals are amazing! Loved this video so real and true!

[@user-hu3px9dc7h]

I visited the Hermes store in Ginza (prestigious place in Tokyo) looking for a scarf ring. The lady in store reacted like a staff from the dollar store. I was so pissed off and decided not to buy a single item from Hermes. The "game" is simply ridiculous.

[@randomlyswatching9481]

Seriously why are they so snooty. Do they make those bags or something 😂

[@Analuciadnkl]

Caitlin you’re my spirit animal ❤😊. I was the same way, now I feel so different. Love your channel!

[@tomandcarolhart2637]

I am so grateful that I have really never coveted an Hermes bag. I won't go into why. That said, I do not understand why people would give a place that mistreats them their business. It's like staying with an abusive guy. They should be rolling out the red carpet for that kind of money. Chanel has gone the same route, and I refuse to shop there any more either. If I'm going to spend thousands of dollars, I certainly don't want to be treated badly. If they don't want my money, I'll happily spend it elsewhere. It just seems like a no brainer. Stop buying them and they will stop doing it!

[@qwertyyxoxo]

agree, think we can create a movement to boycott Hermes?? haha

[@catherineledda2304]

I think this is a very well thought out post, thank you. Personally, I started buying Hermes scarves when I was 18 and that remains my only interest in the brand. I love the quality and the design. My first scarf is as good as it was the day I bought it 38 years ago. Back in the 90s when there wasn't this frankly insane scrabble to buy them, I looked objectively at the bags and didn't like them. I had a colleague who had a Birkin bag and I found it hilarious that she had a bag that cost half a years rent and required a rain-cover every time she used it (as it was London and you know it rains a lot)! Hermes sales assistants have always been super nice to me but then I tend to shop in Italy, speak to them in Italian and have zero interest in buying a bag that costs more than my car.

[@randomlyswatching9481]

Yes in Europe they're nicer😊

[@Karotsy68]

I enjoy watching your videos very informative. I don't own anything luxurious I love my Kipling handbags. But I do Love ❤purchasing fragrances.

[@sarahgee6690]

Interesting topic! I don't know why but I just don't have the desire for anything from Hermes. It's not that I don't like the look of some of their items but I just couldn't bring myself to pay that much money plus go through the madness of it all. I have a tiny collection of luxury goods from Chanel and LV. Everything has held up well which was purchased years ago. I haven't bought any luxury items in a very long time and have just been enjoying what I already have.

[@KurlyKy]

I find this so interesting from a sociological and anthropological view. 😅 There is no “thing” or brand on this entire planet that I would spend tens of thousands of dollars, countless hours, or any brain space on in this way. I just cannot at all relate to this, but find it so fascinating to observe. 😅

[@ChristysChannelYall]

Caitlin…off topic, but I didn’t even recognize you without the makeup and bangs. You look beautiful like that! My thoughts are, I’m someone without a lot of money so I see this “game” as silly. I love bags, but much more indie type bags. I like stuff from local boutiques and Etsy folks, that kind of thing.

[@teodorar.6468]

I honestly think most influencers pushing Hermes so heavily online don't even really like the brand. They might like the Birkin or the Kelly but in reality if it wasn't the status symbol that it is most people would have simply walked by those bags without paying much attention to them. Also allegedly the top percentage of the high(earning population can afford a Birkin however now it looks like every third person has one

[@chiwantstea]

I’m fascinated by all this. Luxury industry isn’t my bag but I get why people might be hooked. But it should give joy and not put you in trouble.

[@supapowas777]

I can’t even imagine having enough money to even think about this

[@redcub8889]

Never understood the hype for luxury brands ( or stanley or Starbucks or buying things in general) but the video does make me wonder what effect im under. where am i spending an unreasonable amount of time, money and mental space on?

[@ColormeStylish]

O flew to Japan for a family trip, took a day with hubby to go to resale stores and found my dream birkin in the color combo I wanted,and the sales associate helped me by calling the other store locations. I’m so glad I did that. Go to Tokyo!

[@terralia644]

I'm going to steal some of the details of the Birkin, like the clasp and the twilly, learn leatherworking, learn to weave silk, and make my own damn bag and twilly. It'll probably cost me less. Also Caitlin, you would probably like Deluxe by Dana Thomas - a former luxury buyer details the history and market forces behind Luxury Fashion

[@nafee-sa910]

I am a high low shopper and I don’t consider myself super brand driven, but when I want an item I can not swap for the dupe. I’ve always been that way. I remember being a child and only wanting the corn flakes with the rooster on it from the commercial. Some things just have perceived value.

[@Hakumokuren]

This game is a great way to market the exclusiveness and luxury status of said brand. Unethical on the people who put themselves through the "humiliation" but it retains the luxury status of the brand and increases the pricing value of the product. I never had such luxury vices, but I knew plenty who did. They bought the dupes and fakes instead to become their fantasy self and present that they are just as worthy as the ones who have the original.

[@pbrd4695]

My choke hold is that I love the quality of Hermes leather. But I’ve had a love of leather since childhood. When I bought my first leather piece (a bracelet) I was immediately hooked. I use to be a Chanel girly. I’ve slowly been selling them off, for Hermes . I love the simplicity of the designs and the craftsmanship is superb. Besides the BIrkins and the Kelly’s H has other great bags and leather goods. I also like the concept of; buying less but better quality…quality over quantity

[@barbaracallenmohr783]

When I was a teenager in the 70's, my Mom bought me a downfilled ski jacket that I hated because it wasn't the brand that all my friends had. I knew the difference... I'm not sure if any of my friends did, haha! As an adult, I've never had this kind of money to spend on luxury items, and I'm glad! Character is far more important to me, and I can look back on my Mom's loving attempt to get me a jacket that she thought would work because she couldn't afford the luxury brand. Now, that's love! ❤

[@to1620]

Addiction, consumerism, low self-esteem, the absolute NEED to be “seen” and get validation from others all play a part in this vicious and stupid “game”. And it’s an unfortunate part of the human psyche. It’s obviously not just associated with women and handbags. This is a condition that affects all people in all walks of life. Think about little kids in school and them flashing the latest toy or chotchke. Think about your neighbor showing off their new car in the drive. Think about convicts in prison trading up for commissary items-literally every person on earth has at some point suffered from envy and its motive to make us more self-aware. Those who break the cycle do so when they finally recognize that their worth isn’t held in their physical possessions-but in how they define themselves. Hermes is just taking advantage of these psychological tactics and they rely on individuals feeling “less than” to keep the “game” going. As long as we humans suffer from shame and feelings of inadequacy-companies like Hermes will always take full advantage of.

[@cranberrybe]

the mini birkin is absurd because the idea of birkin bag was initially to be the bag where Jane Birkin could pop absolutely all her stuff. she used to carry baskets untill she met a guy from hermès on a plane and they came together with the design of the birkin.

[@jenmar9428]

29:14 - Holy sh!t. 😮 You look so youthful here. I didn’t know that was you when you first popped up on my screen suddenly. 😂😂😂😂 You are gorgeous, hun. ❤

[@isabelgoncalves8711]

Regarding brands, If i can get the real thing i can’t deny there is a feeling of accomplishment. If i got a dupe i would be pretending to be someone i’m not. So i accept that some things are not at my reach and i will always choose authenticity. In regards to “Hermes journey” i think it is ridiculous and i would almost feel embarrassed if wearing one would mean i had gone through all the trouble 😂

[@rina-nv5yr]

1:35 I kinda feel like an alien in this situation

[@vikdaddi]

THE AGRESSIVE SPRINT AT THE END I SCREAMED 💀💀💀💀💀💀💀 cuz yuh I was that guy for the pumpkin spice august 22 they dropped that bih 😂

[@layzeh3266]

Hmmm… I have been rejecting quota bags and that hasn’t affected me being offered a quota bag. I bought other Hermes non quota bags coz I love them, not caring if I get a quota bag or not. Maybe that sense of not giving a crap led me to be offered numerous quota bags.

[@randomlyswatching9481]

Hmmm interesting. So you have to not give a damn to be valued😂

[@chickenEwing]

I really do like the Hermes brand, not all items though. I only buy the things I like. I wasn’t interested in the bags but am grateful that the popularity of the bags introduced me to the brand. I must admit that I’m starting to entertain getting a Kelly - I wonder what kind of sorcery their using 🤣

[@saracrawford9908]

This was so interesting! I didn't realize it was so hard to get one of these bags..and to pay all that money and not even get the bag you want! I don't understand at all!

[@jmsj3881]

“Yes ofc I need an ash tray!” 😅😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@MuahMan]

Don't know what a Hermes bag looks like, I'm so glad for that. I pass the "shallow" test!

[@elisapierre-procope9177]

I usually love your videos but I’m finding this one hard to finish because it’s simply not my thing. This idea of waiting for a bag is ridiculous. Brand things are so silly to me bc if the world ended tomorrow, none of this matters. This entire idea of essentially making yourself more marketable by spending money to GIVE THEM MORE MONEY is crazy.

[@jenmar9428]

I live in the Netherlands. You can buy a Ferrari if you have the money. There is a dealer. The same with Porsche. The Porsche HQ is in Stuttgart, Germany. Germany is our neighbor. You can just drive, go by train or fly. You can just go there and look what you want. I don’t know if it is different in other places. I’ve worked with colleagues and clients that own those type of cars. Also you can go to their annual car shows. I seriously do not think that men would buy an ashtray just to get a car. 😂😂😂😂 They might wait for the car model to be available.