Dear PurseBop:
I know that luxury bags are meant to be worn and not to be admired as mere closet ornaments. But how do we use and enjoy our Birkins and Kellys without stressing over the desire to keep them looking pristine?
Dear Help Me Enjoy My Birkin and Kelly:
Most, if not all, Hermès collectors grapple with this concern. The key to enjoying the use of your Birkin and Kelly without constant stress or worry lies in making thoughtful choices, reframing your mindset, and investing in a bit of preventative care.
First, know that using your bag is loving your bag. Every bag holds a story. Whether it is how she was acquired, where she has traveled, or the adventures that result in some mild wear and tear. The goal is not to keep your bag in perfect brand new condition. It is to use and enjoy her each and every time. If a small defect or blemish appears after use, it is not a flaw but evidence that she is experiencing life. The way the bag wears or patinas is part of its history and life. It is meant to be celebrated.
Second, choose the right bag for the occasion. An afternoon ball game, picnic, or beach trip does not require the use of a Birkin or Kelly. However, a girls lunch, luxury shopping day, evening out or dinner with friends is the perfect place for your favorite quota bag. The softer retourne style Kelly or Birkin wears better for casual events than the more structured Birkin Sellier, Mini Kelly, or Kelly Sellier where the edges are more exposed and could be scuffed. The idea is that your beautiful quota bag is an accessory to your outfit meant to be admired but not to be stressed over. Know your surroundings and the purpose of the occasion when choosing the correct bag.
Third, protect your bag while not in use. Invest in bag inserts and bag pillows to maintain the structure and prevent the interior from being damaged. Twillies used on the handles can protect from oils on hands, sweat, or other liquids such as hand sanitizers damaging the handle. Bag pillows help keep the shape of retourne Birkins and Kellys to avoid excessive slouching. Bag organizers protect the interior and prevent make up spills from damaging the inside.
Fourth, after each use examine the exterior of the bag and use a soft dry cloth to wipe down the bag and inspect for blemishes or spills missed earlier. Check the interior as well and swap the bag organizer for a bag pillow to help maintain its shape when not in use. Store the bag in its original dust bag out of direct sunlight in a cool ventilated place. If there is troubling damage or marks take it to your Hermès boutique for advice. They will send it to the Hermès after care department also referred to as the “spa” for repair. Do not take your quota bag to a local cobbler or “handbag repair place.” It is advised to only allow Hermès trained artisans repair your bag.
Fifth, if you have more than one quota bag or an entire collection, rotate your bags each occasion so one bag is not used the most and you are minimizing wear as all your bags are being enjoyed.
Finally, Hermès bags are handmade from the finest leather by the best artisans in the world. They were designed to be worn, loved, and to last a lifetime. Any blemish, scratch, imperfection becomes part of its history. Embrace it move on. There is more life to live and experience.
- Karenzpurses posted 3 days ago
