How Long Is the Waiting List for Hermes?

Are you wondering how long the waiting list for a Hermes bag is? Well, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.

Hermes, the French luxury brand known for its iconic Birkin and Kelly bags, has a reputation for having one of the longest and most exclusive waiting lists in the fashion industry. Let’s dive deeper into this topic.

How Does the Waiting List Work?

Firstly, it’s important to understand that not all Hermes stores have a waiting list. It’s primarily reserved for their flagship stores in major cities such as Paris, London, New York and Tokyo. The waiting list is also selective as it’s only open to customers who have previously made purchases at the store or have built a strong relationship with their sales associate.

If you’re lucky enough to be offered a spot on the waiting list, you’ll be required to specify which bag you want. This is where things get tricky.

The Birkin and Kelly bags are by far the most coveted styles but they come in various sizes, leathers and colors. Each combination can have its own individual wait time.

How Long Do You Have to Wait?

The short answer is: it depends. There are no set timelines for how long it will take to receive your desired Hermes bag.

On average, it can take anywhere from six months to several years! Yes, you read that right – years!

The wait time largely depends on several factors such as:

  • The specific bag style and combination you’ve requested
  • The availability of materials
  • The current demand for that specific style
  • Your relationship with your sales associate
  • The store location

Why Is There Such a Long Wait?

Many people wonder why there is such a long wait for a Hermes bag. The answer lies in the brand’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

Each bag is handcrafted by skilled artisans and can take up to 18-20 hours to create. The materials used are also of the highest quality, with some leathers costing upwards of $10,000 per hide.

The limited production and exclusivity of the brand also add to the mystique and allure of owning a Hermes bag. It’s seen as a symbol of luxury and status, which only adds to the demand.

What Can You Do While Waiting?

While waiting for your Hermes bag, you can continue to build your relationship with your sales associate by making purchases at the store or attending exclusive events hosted by Hermes. You can also keep an eye out for any cancellations or returns, which might shorten your wait time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the waiting list for a Hermes bag is notoriously long and exclusive. If you’re lucky enough to be offered a spot on the list, it can take anywhere from six months to several years before receiving your desired bag. However, owning a Hermes bag is seen as a symbol of luxury and status that is worth the wait for many fashion enthusiasts around the world.