Hermès … perhaps the last real Luxury

When I think of luxury – the first thing that pops into my head is Quality, both in materials used and workmanship. But are the products we are so obsessed in obtaining, spending our hard earned money on, and “perceived” to be luxury, truly the same as when they were first recognized as Luxury – representing Quality? Or are they just riding the coat tails of their pre-Mass market icons that built up many well known and coveted brands?

Looking Fab in your forties (LFIYF) – recently posted Livid with Louis (Vuitton). After reading it, I certainly understood and felt her frustration. A strap on a LV Monogram Musette should last a life time, and if for some unknown reason it does not – LV should certainly have a method of repairing without replacing with new leather, as it will not match the worn in look of the bag.

It appears most "luxury" brands have tried to cut back on manufacturing costs (not that any savings is passed on to the consumer) and have been/started out-sourcing manufacturing of many of the coveted products to various producers throughout Asia. Perhaps LFIYF’s bag had been produced by an out-sourced manufacturer and the quality assurance was not as strict. It also sounds like the LV store, she was dealing with is lacking in the service department for "luxury" service.

I have always marveled at the beauty of a Hermès scarf, and am happy to be the owner of one or two, ok, maybe a couple more. But one cannot put a quantity minimum or limit on such precious gems. But it was not until after reading Deluxe, How Luxury Lost Its Luster - written by Dana Thomas, that I gain a true understanding and appreciation about how precious a gem Hermès and the products it produces really are Luxury! If you have not read this book, I encourage you to pick it up on your next trip to Chapters or Indingo.

All leather artisans who work for Hermès must complete a 2 year apprenticeship in one of their own two schools, to learn firsthand from Hermès senior leather craftsmen. The average-size Birkin takes 15 to 16 man hours to make. All seams are sewn by hand, with the exception of the zipper and inside pocket which are sewn by machine.

The finished product is inspected by the supervisor, who ensures stitching is balanced, the lock works, the shape is perfect, and the surface is unblemished. If the bag passes the supervisor’s inspection it is marked with a stamp identifying the artisan, the year and the workshop, where it was produced. It is then, carefully placed in the signature orange felt bag and sent to the logistics department to be inspected again. Only after passing this rigorous inspection process – is the bag wrapped in tissue, boxed and sent to a store.

I’m not saying that I have given up on my other loves – Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton – but I am going to be much more selective on how I reward myself. And I’m definitely investing in a Birkin.

image credit: Birkin bags -  Boston.com, Hermes Scarves and LV bag- Google search

SPRING Is Definitely Here …. Holts Spring Catalogue has arrived….

I still remember the first time I entered Holt Renfrew (HR) for the first time. A dear girlfriend of mine, who was a regular shopper, could not believe I had never been to HR. So one cold December morning we bundled up and made our way to HR on Bloor Street. As we approached the store, we were greeted by one of the friendliest doorman; he smiled cheerfully and wished us a wonderful day as we entered. You couldn’t help but feel a little more special, than when you first approached the store.

As I stepped in it was like cosmetic heaven, Dior, Chanel, Bobbi Brown, Guerlain etc. - just waiting to be sampled. The staff behind each counter was very knowledgeable and friendly. They were very patient as I had them spray various fragrances – I was about to settle for Estee Lauder’s Youth Dew. When the woman looked at me shook her head and said “No , darling, I see you more as this…” and with a spray out came the most sensual fragrance I ever smelled – to this day I still wear Obsession by Calvin Klein. I have tried other fragrances over the years – but each time I wear Obsession – everyone wants to know what fragrance I’m wearing.

Handbags, accessories and men’s wear can also be found on the first floor. On a mid floor between the first and second floor you will find shoes, coats, lingerie and café. Up the escalator to the second floor you will find high end brands such as Chanel, Gucci, Prada etc. Contemporary labels like Marc by Marc Jacobs, See by Chloe, Theory, Teenflo, Catherine Maldandrino, Missoni, Tory Burch, Burrburry, Pink Tarten, DVF as well as a fully stocked denim department, are located on the third floor.

HR can be on the expensive side, but there is something for everyone no matter the budget. Holt Renfrew does have sales, the end of Summer and Winter sales offer up to 75-80% off.

Here is a sampling of the Spring 2010 at HR. It does not cost anything to go in - sometimes just being surrounded by great fashion is very theraputic and just what the doctor ordered for the drabbest days. Not to mention even the simplist of items such as a lisptick or mascara are lovingly wrapped in tissue and carefully placed in a beautiful pink bag with Holt Renfrew printed in white lettering on the side.

Image Credit: Holt Renfrew Spring 2010 catalogue