Unlocking the Mystery of Hermès Quota Bags

Hermès has always symbolised elegance, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. This French company, famed for its handmade leather items and silk scarves, has become famous in fashion. 

But buying a Hermès Birkin bag isn't as easy as walking into a Hermes store with thousands of dollars. Money won't buy one. Purchasing a Birkin or Kelly bag from Hermès is more complicated than ever. You have to prove your brand loyalty to get a Hermès quota bag.

Welcome to “the Hermès game,”where securing a quota bag isn't only about luck, it's about strategy, relationships, and building a profile that shows you're genuinely devoted to the maison.

What is the Hermès Quota System?

Hermès's quota system is designed to keep its most popular purses, such as Birkin and Kelly, exclusive and desirable. This scheme limits customers to two "quota bags" every year, driving customers wild with anticipation. Only shoppers with a strong history of buying at Hermès are allowed to purchase them. 

And while this Hermès game has helped to maintain the appeal of the brand, there has been plenty of criticism as well. Two Californians actually launched a class-action complaint against Hermès, alleging that the company engaged in antitrust activities. Tina Cavalleri and Mark Glinoga of California sued Hermès for antitrust and business violations. The lawsuit claims that Hermès "ties" people into buying Birkin bags by making them buy other products first.

Cavalleri was refused further purchases despite paying tens of thousands of dollars and having a Birkin. Glinoga frequently tried to acquire a Birkin but was urged to buy other accessories first.

Hermès has not commented on the case, which highlights its exclusivity-driven sales technique, known as "the Hermès game." 

This quota system also controls supplies and maintains the brand's upscale image. Hermès makes these bags seem rare, boosting their desirability and prestige as symbols of luxury, exclusivity, and prestige.

Variations in Policies

Although boutique regulations may vary, the normal limit is two quota bags each year. The rules of their favoured Hermès boutique are typically discussed with salespeople to help clients traverse this system.

For instance:

• Some stores allow customers to buy two quota bags sequentially.

• Others set buy intervals.

Although boutique regulations may vary, the normal limit is two quota bags each year. The rules of their favoured Hermès boutique are typically discussed with salespeople to help clients traverse this system.

Here's where it gets interesting: the rules aren't universal. What counts as a quota bag in one country might be freely available in another:

Regional Quota Differences:

• United States: Generally follows the standard two quota bags per year (Birkin and Kelly only). Constance is NOT a quota bag.

• China, Singapore, Japan, Canada, France, and Australia: The Constance bag is treated as a quota item, making it subject to the same restrictions as Birkin and Kelly.

Europe & UK: Operate on a formal "wishlist system" (more on this below). Constance is NOT a quota bag in Europe, but Kelly variations (Kelly Pochette, Kelly Danse, Kelly Elan) ARE considered quota bags.

Which Bags are Quota Bags?

When it comes to high-end fashion, Hermès quota bags are the most exclusive products available. These include: 

• Birkin: All sizes of the Birkin are considered quota bags.

• Kelly: This includes the classic Kelly and variations like the Mini Kelly II.

• Constance: In certain regions, such as China, Singapore, and Canada, the Constance bag is also treated as a quota item.

• Kelly Variations: Specific boutiques may classify bags like the Kelly Danse and Kelly Ado as quota items based on demand and inventory.

Factors Affecting Bag Classification

Each Hermès boutique operates independently, so the classification of quota bags can vary. Here are the factors that may affect that: 

• Limited Inventory: Limited inventory may lead Hermes boutiques to include additional bags, such as Kelly Danse or Ado, as quota items.

• Larger Boutiques: With more extensive inventory, these boutiques often focus solely on traditional quota bags like the Birkin and Kelly.

If you want more accurate information about your local store, it’d be best to consult their sales associates to understand the specific policies.

Hermès Non Quota Bags: What’s the Limit?

Hermès Non quota bags are wonderful if you're not ready for quota bags or want something easier to get. They're attractive, utilitarian, and don't have as many requirements as the Birkin or Kelly. They may be drama-free, but you should still know.

These are the bags that Hermès enthusiasts love for their craftsmanship and timeless appeal but aren’t subject to the strict quota rules. Think:

• Lindy

• Evelyne

• Picotin

Are There Limits?

Well, that depends.

• In the U.S.: You can usually buy as many as you want in-store, but online shopping might be a little stricter—reports say you’re capped at three per year.

• In the UK and elsewhere: Some regions set their own rules, so it’s worth checking with your local boutique to see what’s allowed.

But, even with Hermès non quota bags, having a good relationship with your Hermès sales associate and a decent purchase history can help. Loyal customers often get first dibs when something popular comes in.

Impact On Your Chances of Getting A Quota Bag

Here’s the catch: saying “yes” to too many non quota bags might delay your chances of getting a quota bag. Some stores keep track of these purchases, and it could affect when they’ll offer you a Birkin or Kelly. A quick chat with your sales associate can clear things up and help you strategize.

Hermès non quota bags are an amazing way to enjoy Hermès without playing the full "quota game."  Just follow the guidelines, and you'll soon have one of these beauties.

Building Your Hermès Profile: What to Buy at Hermès

Here's where most people either nail it or fumble spectacularly. If you're serious about landing a quota bag, you need to think like a Hermès devotee, not just a bag collector checking boxes on a spending spreadsheet. 

Building your Hermès purchase history is an art form that requires thoughtfulness, patience, and genuine appreciation for what the brand offers beyond the holy grail bags.

The golden rule? 

Rushing into purchases just to spend and trying to expedite the road to a quota bag offer usually backfires. 

Start With Daily Essentials

Starting with purchases you'll actually use daily shows your SA you're exploring Hermès products you'll genuinely wear or gift.

1. Scarves

Hermès scarves are iconic, wearable, and show you appreciate the brand's heritage. They're also reasonably priced ($200-$800), making them accessible entry points:

• 90cm silk carrés: The classic square scarf that's been an Hermès signature since 1937

• 70cm scarves: Slightly smaller, equally stunning

• Twillies: Slim, versatile scarves perfect for bag handles, wrists, or as hair accessories

2. Jewellery

Hermès jewellry is criminally underrated in the profile-building game. These pieces are wearable daily, make excellent gifts, and many options clock in at $1,000 or less:

• Clic H bracelets: Iconic, stackable and collectable

• Enamel bangles: Colourful, playful, and instantly recognisable

• Leather bracelets: More understated but equally luxurious

• Silver rings and bracelets: For those who prefer metallics over enamel

3. Belts

A quality Hermès belt is both practical and profile-building ($1,000-$1,500). Consider:

• Adjustable Kelly belt

• Reversible Constance belt kit with H buckle

• Collier de Chien belt

4. Small Leather Goods (SLGs)

SLGs are excellent introductions without the quota bag commitment:

• Calvi card holder

• Bastia coin purse

• Bearn wallet

• Silk'In wallets

• Constance or Kelly To-Go wallet

Non-Quota Bags

This is where strategy gets delicate. Explore some of the most popular non-quota bags like Picotin, Evelyne, and Lindy; they're wonderful additions to your wardrobe AND your purchase history. But proceed with caution.

Choose one or two non-quota bags you truly love. They help you experience Hermès leathers and colours while you wait for a quota bag offer. 

BUT, do not purchase only non-quota bags. 

A profile stuffed exclusively with leather non-quota bags may actually delay your quota bag offer. 

Why? Accepting a non-quota bag may delay the offer of a quota bag by a year or more. Your SA is paying attention to the composition of your profile, not just the dollar amount.

The Best Non-Quota Bags for Profile Building:

• Picotin 18

• Evelyne TPM (Mini Evelyne)

• Mini Lindy

• Herbag (Mini, 31, or 39)

• Garden Part

• Evelyne (full sizes)

Mix non-quota bags with purchases from OTHER categories, scarves, jewelry, home goods, shoes, ready-to-wear. That's what shows genuine brand appreciation rather than transparent quota-chasing.

Timing Your Wishlist Request

Most people walk into a Hermès boutique on their first visit and immediately ask about quota bags. 

Don't be that person. 

Build First, Ask Later

You've been shopping thoughtfully for several months, building a trusted relationship with your SA, showing them respect by making appointments in advance, and making one or more purchases on each visit. 

This proves you're a valued customer who truly enjoys the brand with hopes to continue for the long term.

Generally, you should wait at least 3-6 months of consistent, diversified purchasing before broaching the quota bag subject. Your profile should feel "rounded out" with scarves, ready-to-wear, fashion or fine jewellery, home goods, and at least one non-quota bag.

Let your SA guide the conversation. Often, they'll bring up the topic of a wishlist when they feel you're ready. If several months have passed and they haven't initiated the conversation, this would be a good time to politely ask if you could provide a wishlist of bags you would love to be offered.

How Should You Present Your Wishlist?

When the moment arrives, your SA will likely advise you to text them a list with sizes, colours, leather, and hardware preferences. 

Be specific... but flexible. 

Give your SA your definite preferences if you have them. For instance, if you only want a Birkin 25 as your first bag, be very specific. However, if you're open to other sizes and different colour leathers and hardware, let them know that as well.

 The more restrictive your wishlist, the harder it may be to fulfil.

When you submit your wishlist, feel free to ask your SA about a likely timeline. Be prepared to wait possibly:

• 6 months to 1 year in most locations

• 1-2 years or more in highly competitive large city boutiques

• Less time in smaller markets where competition is less fierce

How to Buy More Than Two Quota Bags Per Year

Hermès has a strict quota system, but if you’re determined to snag more than two bags in a year, there are ways to make it happen. 

Celebrities and collectors, like Cardi B with her jaw-dropping $2 million Birkin bag collection, have mastered these strategies. While it might take some effort (and extra spending), these methods could help you build your dream collection too.

• Travel Abroad

You can get more quota bags by shopping at Hermès boutiques abroad. Paris, Milan, Hawaii, and Tokyo have better inventories and tourist-friendly rules. Hermès now tracks sales globally, so your international shopping spree may count toward your annual quota. Though not failsafe, it's worth a try!

• Special Order Bags

Purchase Special Order (SO) bags to expand your collection. These custom-designed products with the Horseshoe Stamp (HSS) are for Hermès' most loyal customers. Special Orders are great for customers with a solid spending history and a personal relationship with their salesperson, but they take time and aren't guaranteed.

• Using an Alternative Name

To evade quotas, open a new client profile under a different name. It carries risks, despite how simple it sounds. Payment methods must match the registered name, otherwise Hermès' systems may flag your transaction as suspicious. Consider this option carefully—it might do more harm than good in the long run.

• Head to a Reseller

The resale market is a good place to find Hermès quota bags without hassle. LoveLuxury sells original, pre-owned Hermès bags, including the Birkin and Kelly. While it may cost more, it's a simple approach to avoid the quota system and acquire what you want. It also helps find discontinued and uncommon styles.

• High Spending

Big spenders sometimes get exceptions to the quota rules. If you’re splurging on Hermès jewelry, watches, or other high-ticket items, your sales associate might offer you extra opportunities for quota bags. This method isn’t guaranteed, but for those who love all things Hermès, it could work in your favor.

Mastering Your Relationship with the SA

Your SA is your gateway to Hermès. This relationship is everything, and it requires finesse, consistency, and genuine rapport.

Here are our two cents on this: 

• Be professional yet personable: Think of this as a business relationship built on mutual respect. Make them want to advocate for you.

• Consistency matters more than flash: Regular, thoughtful purchases beat sporadic spending sprees. Show up, be polite, and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Know your stuff: Learn about Hermès leathers, understand the colour palette, and know the history. 

• Wear what you buy: This cannot be overstated. When you walk into the boutique wearing that scarf you bought last month, or those Oran sandals from summer, or that Click H bracelet, it sends a powerful message.

• Be responsive but not pushy: If your SA texts you about a new arrival, respond promptly. But don't be pushy. 

• Show appreciation: A simple thank you goes a long way. Remember, your SA is navigating boutique politics on your behalf.

How to Increase Your Chances of Securing a Quota Bag

Landing an Hermès quota bag, like a Birkin or Kelly, isn’t just about spending—it’s about strategy, relationships, and understanding the brand’s unique process. Here’s how to boost your odds:

• Approach It Like Doing Business

At Hermès, the sales associate is your ticket to a quota bag. SAs represent certain clients and work with store managers to offer them. Being professional yet friendly with your SA can make all the difference. 

Many clients text their SAs about products or appointments, but patience is needed since SAs receive hundreds of messages everyday. In-person visits demonstrate genuine interest and dedication, making them more powerful. 

Respecting the process is important because local expectations vary. Greece may value appearance more than the UK. Consider this a commercial collaboration based on respect and professionalism. The human element complicates but emphasizes true relationships.

• Be Devoted to the Brand

Hermès appreciates consumers who value its heritage and craftsmanship. They can tell loyalists from newbies. Understand Hermès' rich history, which began as a horse harness maker in 1837, to show your commitment. Every committed Birkin consumer knows that French artisans train for five years to make bags.

 Learn about Hermès leathers, hues, and styles. Your sincere curiosity distinguishes you. Hermès wants “disciples” who investigate its culture and products beyond bags to show your passion extends deeper than a single purchase.

• Optimize Purchase Timing and Store Selection

Obtaining a quota bag requires careful consideration of both the timing and the location of the hunt. Visiting Hermès boutiques soon after restocking increases your chances. 

While schedules are kept secret, creating rapport with your SA can help. Large flagship stores in Paris, New York, or Tokyo may have greater inventory but more demand, while smaller boutiques can offer a more personalized experience. Hermès tracks purchases worldwide, so shopping overseas doesn't guarantee bypassing quota rules.

• Build a Strong Spending History

Your purchase history is crucial to the Hermès Quota Bag adventure. A varied spending record on scarves, jewelry, ready-to-wear, Hermès non quota bags and home goods shows brand enthusiasm. Consistent purchases show long-term devotion more than occasional big spending. 

Telling your SA about your wishlist and hobbies helps them strategically lead your purchases to meet your quota bag target.

Considerations When Buying from the Secondary Market

The secondary market offers a fast track to owning your dream Hermès bag, providing access to rare and hard-to-find pieces without the VIP prerequisites. For collectors and first-time buyers alike, it’s a practical and exciting alternative to the traditional boutique experience.

If you’re looking to skip the wait and get your hands on an Hermès quota bag right away, the secondary market can be a great option. However, navigating this space requires a little know-how to ensure you’re getting the real deal at the right price. Here’s what you need to know:

• Make Sure It’s Real

No one wants to buy an expensive counterfeit. Pre-owned Hermès bags should be bought from trusted sellers like LoveLuxury or reputable auction houses. These platforms offer rigorous authentication, so shop with confidence. It also helps to know Hermès' craftsmanship. 

Genuine Hermès bags have silky leather, engraved metal, and excellent stitching. Zipper lettering should be clean and distinct, unlike counterfeit goods' uneven markings.

• Understand the Price

Pre-owned Hermès purses, especially rare ones, are expensive. Exclusive leather or colour designs can cost double or treble their initial price. Check the bag's market value to make sure you're paying fairly. Knowing the going rate will assist you avoid overpaying and provide context.

• Check the Bag’s Condition

Some pre-owned bags are in terrible shape, so check beforehand. Reliable sellers will describe and photograph wear and damage. Review these facts to understand your purchase. 

Many dealers characterize their items as 'Pristine,' 'Excellent,' or 'Good.' Know these terms to create expectations and avoid surprises when the luggage arrives.

• Think About Investment Value

Hermès bags may be attractive accessories and good investments. Models like the Birkin double in value over five years. But while rare or discontinued designs appreciate over time, please note that markets can fluctuate. 

Many Hermès bags retain value, but not always. If you're buying for investment, follow market patterns.

• Check the Return Policy

Even when buying pre-owned, know what choices you have if something goes wrong. If the bag doesn't fulfill your expectations or you doubt its authenticity, make sure the seller has a clear return policy. Authentication certifications and warranties from reliable merchants can provide you peace of mind when buying.

• Think About the Planet

Pre-owned Hermès bags boost your collection and are sustainable. Buying used lessens demand for new, reducing the environmental effect of luxury products. Supporting the resale market increases the life of high-quality objects, making buying more eco-friendly. It benefits your clothing and the environment.

Cautionary Notes: What NOT to Do

Even with the best intentions, there are pitfalls to avoid in your Hermès profile-building journey.

Don't Become the Non-Quota Bag Collector Only

While non-quota bags absolutely help build your profile, purchasing ONLY these bags raises red flags. It signals you're following a formula rather than genuinely appreciating the brand. Mix your purchases across categories, bags, accessories, jewellery, and home goods.

Don't Overspend on Things You'll Never Use

SAs are perceptive. Buy things you'll actually use and enjoy. Forced purchases are transparent and counterproductive.

Spending ≠ Guarantee

This is perhaps the hardest truth: even with a substantial Hermès purchase history, you're not guaranteed a quota bag. Availability depends on boutique allocations, which vary wildly. Some boutiques receive only a handful of Birkins per year. You could do everything "right" and still face a wait.

The goal is to improve your chances and position yourself favourably, not to game a system that's intentionally resistant to gaming.

Conclusion

Building a profile takes patience, consistency, and a genuine love for Hermès, but done well, it can bring you closer to the bag of your dreams. 

The journey isn't just about the destination. It’s about discovering the extraordinary world of Hermès craftsmanship, heritage, and artistry along the way.

Whether you choose to play the long game with strategic profile building or take the direct route through the secondary market at LoveLuxury, owning a quota bag is about more than acquisition. It's about joining a legacy of excellence that began in 1837 and continues to captivate the world today.

After all, it's not just the bag. Get a bag through the quota system or locate the perfect piece at Love Luxury. Happy shopping, darlings!