Oh Trump! (and Hermès!)
Darling sometimes I feel like my life is just one giant episode of 'Sex and the City,' only instead of Mr. Big I'm battling economic policies! So there I was sipping my morning cosmos (okay it was a latte but a girl can dream!) when I heard the news: Hermès yes *the* Hermès is raising prices in the U.S. because of those tariffs. Tariffs! It's like Manolos being held hostage by… well by a political situation! Could this *be* any more stressful for a girl who considers a Birkin bag a basic necessity?
The Birkin's Burden
Apparently those colorful scarves we adore and of course the Birkin and Kelly bags that are practically synonymous with 'I've arrived' are about to get a little pricier. Eric du Halgouët Hermès' executive VP for finance (a title almost as fabulous as 'shoe designer') said the increase is *only* for the U.S. aiming to offset the Trump era tariffs. Well isn’t that just fabulous? As if finding a decent man in this city wasn’t hard enough now I have to worry about affording my arm candy!
A 10% Headache!
We're talking about a 10% tariff imposed by the White House. Ten percent! That’s like adding an extra glass of Champagne to every brunch – delightful in theory less so when the bill arrives. And get this it is not even the potential 20% duties the EU might face. I mean really is there *anyone* out there who isn't facing some drama?!
Sales Slowdown?!
Apparently Hermès' sales growth is slowing down. They had 11% sales growth in the Americas which while impressive is a bit of a dip from their previous highs. Even luxury isn’t immune to the whims of the world it seems. Though I must say the idea of a 'robust' slowdown does have a certain je ne sais quoi doesn’t it?
LVMH Drama!
And speaking of drama did you know LVMH the big cheese of luxury tried to acquire Hermès a decade ago? Can you imagine? It's like Big trying to buy out Aidan's furniture business – a complete clash of styles and sensibilities! Though I must admit LVMH’s portfolio which includes Louis Vuitton Dior and even Sephora is rather impressive. It's like a buffet of fabulousness.
Will We Still Shop?
Analysts are saying luxury brands can pass these costs onto us the discerning consumer. Well *duh*. But here’s the real question: will we keep buying? Will we continue to splurge on the things that make us feel fabulous even when the world feels a little less so? As I always say “I like my money where I can see it: hanging in my closet.” But even *I* have my limits. Maybe it's time to start investing in experiences… like a really really long vacation from tariffs!
Hermès Trump tariffs luxury goods Birkin bag price increase fashion economics retail LVMH consumer spending
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amandapear
I'm blaming Big for this. Somehow.
jackson3
I'm trading my cosmos for ramen to afford this!
uniqueorn23
Anyone know if Hermès accepts payment plans?
lynchris
I knew I should have bought that Kelly bag last year!
PunkieBloo
At least my Manolos are safe... for now.
bentreed
This is an outrage! My Birkin budget can't handle this!
skylight
Maybe it's time to start DIY-ing my own luxury goods. Wish me luck!
T3hZ10n
This calls for a shoe-buying spree to cope!
medeae
Thanks, Trump. Just what we needed...