Are you interested in purchasing a Hermès replica bag? With my extensive shopping experience, I have created this comprehensive guide to assist you in identifying the key factors to consider when selecting one. We will cover everything from the fundamental aspects of a Hermès replica bag to the most reputable sources for making your purchase.
The process of shopping for a replica bag, regardless of the brand you are interested in, is not as straightforward as purchasing an authentic Hermès bag. It requires you to be a well-informed shopper before making any buying decision.
Table of Contents
1. Gaining a deeper insight into the Hermès Brand
2. What exactly is a Hermès Replica Bag?
3. Why Opt for a Hermès Replica Instead of an Authentic Bag
4. Quality differences between Hermès Replica Bags
5. What to Expect When Shopping for a Hermès Replica Bag
6. Shopping Tips for Hermès Replica Bags
7. Where to Buy High-Quality Hermès Replica Bags
Gaining a deeper insight into the Hermès Brand
Before delving into further details about what to consider when shopping for a Hermès replica bag or where to make a purchase, let’s first go over the Hèrmes brand and the legacy it carries…
A Brief Overview of The Hermès Legacy
Hermès is not just a brand.
The Hermès brand, established in Paris in 1837, is arguably the epitome of luxury shopping. It has set the gold standard for designer bags and accessories, with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship. Shoppers eagerly invest thousands of dollars to own a piece from this fashion house that exudes unparalleled artistry.
The most popular Hermès items (likely ones you have heard of) are their Birkin and Kelly bags. The Birkin was named after the actress and singer Jane Birkin while the Kelly was named after the Prince of Monaco Grace Kelly (formerly an American actress).
Now, with this information in mind, it may not come as a surprise to you that simply walking into a Hermès boutique and purchasing one of their coveted Birkin or Kelly bags is not an option. These iconic bags are not readily available for purchase and require shoppers to establish a history at a local boutique before they are eventually given the opportunity to buy one.
This means that if you are lucky enough to own a Birkin or Kelly you have joined an exclusive club – one that signals you really know the ins and outs of luxury fashion.
The Power of Celebrity Influence
Hermès used to be a brand that was primarily recognized by fashion enthusiasts who had the means to indulge in these luxurious pieces.
However, in recent years (alongside the rise of social media), Hermès has undeniably become more mainstream. The Birkin bag, in particular, has evolved into a cultural icon as it represents the epitome of designer bags and signifies both financial and fashion sophistication.
Celebrities have unsurprisingly developed a strong fascination with Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags, and by frequently showcasing these iconic accessories, they have further solidified the cultural status of both the Birkin and Kelly bags.
From Victoria Beckham’s well-publicized collection of Birkins to Kim Kardashian’s customized pieces, celebrities have made these bags even further synonymous with glamour, wealth, and sophistication.
Generally, when a celebrity is seen with a Birkin or Kelly, it’s not just a fashion statement; it’s a proclamation of their place in the hierarchy of fame and success. It’s no wonder replica Hermès bags are becoming so popular.
What exactly is a Hermès Replica Bag?
Hermès replica bags are affordable alternatives to their authentic counterparts, allowing a wider range of shoppers to experience the luxury without breaking the bank.
Hermès’ own employees were even busted in 2011 for reproducing their bags and selling them as replicas in a wild story I read on the Daily Mail.
Impeccably crafted, high-quality Hermès replicas are created with meticulous attention to detail, faithfully replicating the design, texture, and even the smallest elements such as stitching and hardware of authentic Hermès bags.
This level of detail appeals to both fashion enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry in a well-made bag, Hermès addicts who want to add replicas to compliment their authentic collection of bags, as well as practical shoppers who desire the Hermès aesthetic without necessarily wanting to spend tens of thousands on an authentic bag.
Why Opt for a Hermès Replica Instead of an Authentic Bag
Why are even wealthy individuals gravitating towards replicas? Here’s the reason.
Accessibility:
Genuine Hermès bags are not only pricey but also famously hard to obtain. Waiting lists can extend for years, with no assurance of obtaining your desired design or material. On the other hand, high-quality replicas provide instant availability.
Economic Sense:
The high upfront cost and uncertainty of resale value can make a genuine Hermès bag seem less appealing as an investment. However, replicas offer a more affordable way to enjoy the prestige and design without the hefty financial commitment.
Experimentation:
Before investing in an authentic Birkin or Kelly, some people prefer to try out a replica first to determine if the style suits their needs and lifestyle. The replica serves as a “trial run.”
Fear of Damage or Loss:
Owning a high-quality luxury bag can bring about certain concerns, such as potential damage or theft. However, with a replica, both the emotional and financial risks are significantly minimized.
Social Flexibility:
The social circles of the wealthy can surprisingly encompass a wide range of individuals. In situations where displaying an expensive designer bag might be considered inappropriate or draw unwanted attention, opting for a high-quality replica provides a convenient compromise.”
Fashion Fluidity:
Fashion trends evolve rapidly. Investing in an authentic luxury bag that might go out of vogue can seem unwise to those who prefer to keep up with the latest styles. Replicas offer a way to adapt to changing tastes without financial repercussions.
Indistinguishability:
Advances in manufacturing have led to replicas that are almost indistinguishable from the real thing in terms of craftsmanship and quality, making them an attractive option for discerning buyers.
Story time: My friend who bought a replica of her $85,000 Birkin bag
Now if you have thousands laying around and want to buy the real deal, all I have to say to you is, “all the power to you”! Spend your money as you wish. However I know for a fact that there are a lot of rich socialites who are exclusively buying replica Hermès bags ever since they have discovered how close they are to the real deal.
I mean I can even share with you that I know one lady who is a multi-millionaire in the Southwest, lives in a huge mansion, has real Hermès bags, and still purchases copies of her original Hermès bags as replicas. This includes a stunning crocodile Rose Mexico Shiny Porosus Crocodile Birkin 35 GHW.
Yes, my friends – this means that the person who could afford and did purchase an Hermès Birkin worth over $85,000 USD actually bought a replica of her expensive bag to protect the original one from unnecessary damage.
Both you and I are aware that there is a certain stigma surrounding replica bags, and some luxury enthusiasts can become quite passionate and defensive when the topic of replicas arises. However, in reality, there exist discreet individuals with substantial wealth who enjoy both replica Hermès bags and authentic ones equally.
And who can blame them? Buying an authentic Hermès bag is like making an investment. So why not purchase a replica Hermès bag for 10% of the price to use and protect your investment in the authentic bag, which you may only want to use a few times a year?
Quality differences between Hermès Replica Bags
Please note that there are different qualities of replica bags, and when it comes to Hermès replica bags there is no exception in terms of navigating these different types of qualities. Understanding the difference in quality can save you from a lot of regrets. What do I mean by this?
Well there are two types of Hermès replica bags (machine made and handmade) as outlined in the chart below:
The craftsmanship of handmade bags is truly exceptional, as they are meticulously crafted using the same techniques employed in official Hermès workshops. However, when it comes to replicas, we all know that the attention to detail makes a significant difference between a well-crafted handmade Hermès replica and one that falls short.
What Makes a Good Handmade Hermès Replica?
In order to score the best quality handmade replica Hermès handbag you will need to ensure that you know how to judge a replica bag. This involves being educated on everything about Hermès bags when it comes to their construction and design including:
- bag shape or structure,
- top handle shape or structure
- leather types,
- leather sources,
- hardware materials, and stitching.
I know it isn’t easy to pick up on spotting quality differences right away, and that a person usually needs to buy a couple of replica bags before they are really able to pick up on these qualitative differences. Below you will see photos of replica Hermès bags I actually purchased – one of which is not so great (a Kelly replica) while the other is a stunning handmade replica Birkin bag.
Although in pictures you may not be able to distinguish the quality differences between the bags, in person I can tell you that it is very apparent which bag was handmade with extra effort (as the structure and overall look/feel of the bag reflect this extra care taken with it).
The photo above features one of my bags, specifically a Hermès Birkin 30 Replica Bag that I purchased. This bag is considered a premium quality replica, often referred to as a 1:1, as it was meticulously hand sewn using materials of the same caliber as authentic Hermès bags (including imported European leather). The bag is truly stunning and you can find a comprehensive review of it on the blog here!
The photo above is of a Hermès Kelly replica bag. This was one of the first replica bags I ever purchased and boy oh boy did I learn a lot from this “lemon”. Click here to read the full review.
Generally there is a big difference between a replica Hermès bag that you can buy on Canal Street versus one you can purchase from an artisanal factory in Asia that seeks to mimic the original product to the closest degree possible.
What Expect When Buy a Hermès Replica Bag
The buying process can be easier with some know-how. Here’s what you can expect.
Choosing the Right Seller
When shopping for replica Hermès bags you can expect to deal with sellers which are primarily located in Asia. These sellers have a wide range of experience and you should aim to shop with the ones that have been crafting replica Hermès handbags for years.
Such dealers are usually the ones with the best product as they have perfected the craft of remaking Hermès bags including paying attention to the finer details that really point to whether a bag is authentic or replica. So when shopping make sure that you always ask a seller how long they have been making Hermès replicas.
Understand Order Timelines
If the bag you are purchasing is custom made or handmade, please note that it will require additional time for completion. This offers a unique experience compared to simply buying a replica Hermès bag off the shelf.
The top-tier replica dealers typically have workshops that are identical to those of Hermès itself. It is within these workshops where the bags are crafted, and in my experience, it can take up to two months for a bag to be completed. Of course, various factors such as the busyness of the period you purchase during can influence the timing. When shopping for a replica Hermès bag, remember to keep these timelines in mind.
Payment Methods
In terms of payment, shopping for replicas is different from shopping for authentic designer handbags. In that you need to be prepared to make payments through unconventional methods. I personally have had to pay through money transfer services as well as Bitcoin for replica products in the past. Sometimes however you may get lucky and are able to pay through more traditional (and simpler) means such as a credit card or Paypal.
Generally, there is a lot to keep in mind when shopping for any replica product – let alone a Hermès replica handbag. Scroll down below to read five important shopping tips that I’d suggest you have at the forefront of your mind when considering shopping for a Hermès replica.
Tips for buying Hermès Replica Bags
If you think you are ready to explore the world of Hermès replicas, and are contemplating buying a replica Hermès handbag (whether it be a Birkin, Kelly, or otherwise) then make sure you pay attention to the following tips:
Don’t cheap out to buy a high quality replica Hermès bag
The most important piece of advice I can offer you is: if you are thinking about buying a replica Hermès bag do not do so unless you are ready to invest between $1500 to $2500 in a very high quality replica Hermès bag. Revised sentence: Spending any less would likely result in disappointment and a waste of your money. If you’re considering purchasing an Hermès bag made from exotic leather, Please be prepared to pay up to 10% of the authentic bag’s price tag. (yes, this means some replica Hermès bags can cost up to $10,000 if they are crafted from more expensive exotic leathers).
There is a reason why Hermès bags are expensive in the first place, and if you want a high quality product then you need to spend the requisite amount of money on a Hermès replica to ensure you end up with a good quality replica handbag.
Pay attention to the leather
The design of Hermès bags is characterized by simplicity, and it can be argued that what truly makes their bags iconic is the exceptional quality of their leather and the impeccable structure. Hermès has gained a reputation for its use of premium leathers. Replica Hermès manufacturers that are serious about their bags typically source leathers from Europe. This includes the following heritage leathers that Hermès is most known for: naturelle leather, box leather, barenia leather, butler leather, and tadelakt leather.
When you are shopping for a replica Hermès bag, make sure you ask the replica seller what quality their leather is, and where their leather is manufactured. Keep in mind that when it comes to the more exotic leathers such as crocodile or ostrich, these leathers are often sourced from non-European countries including as far as in the continent of Africa.
Examine the stitching – Hermès bags are stitched by hand
As a fan of Hermès, I can say that what I adore most about Hermès bags (regardless of whether it is an authentic or replica Hermès bag) is the stitching on the bag. I love how the stitching looks, and my favorite Hermès bags are the ones with stitching that contrasts with the color of the leather on the bag (as pictured below). On their official website it is stated that, “an icon of its time and for all time, a Hermès bag is the fruit of many hours at an artisan’s table, whose every stitch is applied by hand in a precise and constantly repeated gesture.”
Check the hardware – it should be either gold plated brass or silver palladium
The hardware on a Hermès bag is just as important as every other feature on the bag. Authentic Hermès bags are made from either gold plated brass (called GHW for short) or from palladium (called PHW for short). For Hermès bags with gold hardware 18-karat gold plating is typically used, however it is important to note that some rarer styles may actually come with 24-karat gold plated hardware.
If you are buying a top quality replica Hermès bag then the replica manufacturer should note that they sell hardware made from the exact same materials as Hermès bags, and this includes being placed with REAL gold for bags that are made with gold hardware. If you come across a replica manufacture that looks like the real deal otherwise but does not have this kind of hardware then you are NOT buying a top quality Hermès replica handbag.
Start simple
If you find a replica manufacturer or dealer who looks legit and you feel like you are ready to take the next step and purchase a bag from them I suggest that you go “light” at first by which I mean that you should order a more simple bag at first. That means I don’t suggest purchasing a more pricey exotic leather Birkin or Kelly as your first replica Hermès purchase, but instead perhaps you should go for the more simple leathers.
My golden rule when shopping for replica items (whether it be a replica bag, replica shoe, replica watch, replica scarf, replica jewelry or whatever) is to start small, vet a seller, and then order more if I am happy with the quality.
Where to Buy High-Quality Hermès Replica Bags
By now if your interest in replica Hermès bags remains piqued and you are ready to shop for one yourself then you are probably wondering what dealers or sellers are a safe bet. In other words you are probably wondering, “where the heck can I buy the best Hermès replica bag?” This a great question, and as you may (or may not know) replica dealers popup and disappear all the time.
My personal philosophy is to try to establish a relationship with a reputable seller whom I can return to time after time again. To this end, I have compiled a list of sellers that are tried, tested, and true (based on my experiences as well as the experiences of other trusted friends who are experienced with shopping for replicas). You can see that list of trusted dealers by clicking the link below:
You can also read reviews I have done on my purchases of the following Hermès replica bags:
Price Guide for Hermès Authentic and Replica Bags
Below you can find a price guide for Hermès bags (both authentic and replica). I have only given my knowledge of pricing on superfake Hermès bags since those are the only type of Hermès replica bags I personally shop for. So keep in mind you can find cheaper replicas out there but that comes at the cost of precision and accuracy (which I am personally a stickler for as a dual authentic/replica designer bag lover).
| Bag Model | Description | Approximate Price Range for Authentic (as of my last training in 2022) | Replica Bag Prices (superfakes/fully hand stitched) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birkin | One of the most iconic and sought-after Hermes bags. Named after Jane Birkin. | $10,000 – $500,000+ depending on material and rarity | $1,000 to $10,000 (depending on materials) |
| Kelly | Classic handbag named after Grace Kelly. | $9,000 – $400,000+ depending on material and rarity | $1,000 to $10,000 (depending on materials) |
| Constance | A crossbody bag with a large H buckle. | $4,000 – $30,000+ | $1,000 to $1,800 |
| Evelyne | Casual crossbody with perforated H logo. | $1,500 – $5,000+ | $1,000 to $1,700 |
| Garden Party | A tote bag, usually made of canvas or leather | $1,500 – $3,500+ | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Herbag | Often called the “Kelly’s little sister” | $1,500 – $3,000+ | $800 to $1,200 |
| Jypsiere | Crossbody that looks like a casual Kelly | $5,000 – $9,000+ | $1,000 to $1,800 |
| Bolide | Structured top handle bag. | $6,000 – $10,000+ | $1,000 to $1,900 |
| Lindy | Slouchy and casual tote/satchel. | $5,500 – $10,000+ | $1,000 to $1,900 |
| Picotin | Bucket bag style. | $2,500 – $5,500+ | $1,000 to $1,400 |
Are Hermès Replica Bags Worth It?
A Hermès replica bag is not a cheap knock off – it is a high quality handbag that should be almost identical to an authentic Hermès bag. As explained above Hermès replica bags are not cheap, and are a mini investment in and of themselves. However when you compare the price of a Hermès replica handbag to that of an authentic Hermès handbag then you will realize that you are usually saving up to 90% while getting a bag that is pretty damn close to the original.
The savings are mouthwatering when it comes to Hermès replica handbags, and it is hard not to drool when thinking of how many Hermès replica bags you can add to your collection without breaking the bank. This likely explains why shopping for Hermès replicas has become almost a sort of “sport” amongst replica enthusiasts.
