The Great Sticker Debate

There are two key things everyone thinks about when you get a Birkin or a Kelly. Keeping the box, and stickers on or stickers off? 

Few names carry the weight and prestige of Hermès, and while both models are a statement of timeless elegance all on their own, the resale world has had a part in shaping the way we treat our handbags. Hermès bags are much more than an accessory; it's an investment. And the resale world has taught us that taking the stickers off can take away some of the value of your bag. 

For some, it's an easy and swift ripping off the bandaid aka the stickers as soon as you get the bag. For others, you know who you are, have a little more inner turmoil approaching this subject. It's a slower burn, you take your bag out for it's maiden voyage preciously guarding it with the stickers, you wait, debate, and ponder. You finally cave, take off the stickers, knowing you immediately reduced the value of your bag....(or did you?) The first scratch on the hardware makes your heart sink a little, but once you get over that first scratch, you breath a sigh of relief and all of a sudden, your handbag finally feels like truly yours.

As I considered the value of the Birkin and the Kelly, I couldn't help but wonder, which is more important to retaining the value of your bag?

I want to know, if you are buying a handbag from me, which is more important to you if you could only choose one? That the bag still has it's stickers intact? Or if it comes with it's original box?

Let's dive into this topic and explore which elements play a role in retaining the value of your Hermès bag more. At the end of this article I will reveal my opinion on the topic!

Quality Preservation: Both the original box and dust bag that accompany your Hermès bag are designed to protect the bag from dust, light exposure, and humidity. Storing your bag in the dust bag when it's not in use can help prevent scratches and maintain its pristine condition. Likewise, the original box adds an extra layer of protection during storage and transportation. Keeping the box and dust bag can significantly contribute to preserving the bag's quality, which is crucial for retaining its value.

Collector's Perspective: From a collector's standpoint, the original box and dust bag can enhance the bag's value. They not only reflect the bag's prestigious origins but also contribute to the overall presentation. A complete set that includes the bag, box, and dust bag can attract more serious buyers and command a higher resale value. The box and dust bag can also serve as a visual testament to the bag's authenticity and provenance, providing potential buyers with additional confidence in their purchase. On the other side, some may argue keeping the stickers on preserves the value more because it protects from scratches and dents to the hardware. 

Long-Term Investment: Hermès bags are renowned for their enduring appeal and value retention over time. While the decision to keep stickers on or preserve the box and dust bag might seem minor, it's a part of a bigger strategy in maintaining the bag's long-term investment value. As the fashion world evolves, the demand for iconic Hermès pieces continues to rise, making it crucial to consider every aspect that contributes to the bag's appeal.

So which one do I think is more important to keep? I think the box and dustbag is more important to keep! I am team stickers off all the way. While I do believe there is some value in keeping the stickers on short term, I think having the stickers off does not compromise the bags value. I think there is so much more value in a bag that was well loved and used the way it should, and has a story to tell! 

Not only this but being overly committed to keeping the stickers off could make you run into some problems as well. Depending on the climate you live in, keeping stickers on can subject your hardware to intaking moisture and humidity, damaging the hardware over time. Also the longer you leave the stickers on, there is a chance a film of residue will leave a trace over your hardware and show the outline of where the sticker was if you or the next owner of the bag chooses to take them off.

The resale world has created a stigma around removing the stickers on your bag that I believe is overrated and I believe the stickers are meant to come off. 

While both the stickers and the box/dust bag play a role in retaining the value of an Hermès bag, the preservation of the box and dust bag has a more significant impact in my opinion. These elements not only protect the bag's quality but also add to its provenance and desirability, particularly among serious collectors and buyers. Remember that the decision ultimately rests on personal preference, so whether you choose to keep the stickers on or safeguard the box and dust bag, the key is to do so with care and thoughtfulness, just as you would with any other prized possession.

Let me know in the comments what you think, are you team stickers on, or off?