Hermès Price Hike! Will Trump's Tariffs Ruin My Birkin Dreams?

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!