ChatGPT Turned Fashion Guru? Help Me Decide!

[Seedlessplum]

Hey fashion fam,

So, I decided to test ChatGPT’s "expertise" on luxury bags because... why not? I asked which of these three bags was the best purchase:
- Hermès Picotin 18 in Étoupe
- Chanel Boy Bag (Medium, Black)
- Hermès Garden Party 30 in Gold

And here’s what it said:

'Conclusion:
- Best Investment: Hermès Picotin 18 (Étoupe) – Apparently, it's trendy, neutral, and screams "mini-bag moment."
- Second Place: Chanel Boy Bag (Medium, Black) – "A solid investment, especially if Chanel continues price hikes." Okay, so we're banking on inflation now? 😂
- Lowest Investment Value: Hermès Garden Party 30 (Gold) – It's practical, not "investment-worthy." Ouch, ChatGPT, why so savage?
Overall advice: "For maximum return, go with the Picotin, but for versatility and timelessness, the Chanel Boy is a close contender."

I mean... am I buying a bag or choosing stocks for my retirement fund? 😅
What do you think about ChatGPT’s financial analysis of these bags? Would you trust this robot wisdom or stick to the "buy what you love" mantra?
Spill your thoughts and let me know if the Garden Party deserves the shade it got! 😂

 

[jellyv]

Sorry, but I can't see the value of debating AI, especially if its sourcing/programming is utterly unknown.

 

[cravin]

Its advice for “how to secure a leather appointment in Paris” is really good.

Securing a leather appointment at Hermès in Paris, particularly for high-demand items like a Birkin or Kelly bag, can be a challenge due to the exclusivity and limited availability. However, with the right approach, you can improve your chances. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

### 1. **Establish a Relationship with Hermès**
- **Be a Loyal Customer**: One of the most important factors is building a relationship with the store. Start by purchasing smaller leather goods, scarves, or other accessories. Regular purchases will help you become familiar to the staff and build rapport over time.
- **Visit Multiple Times**: It’s not just about making a big purchase once. If you’re in Paris for an extended period, visit the store regularly, ask questions, and show genuine interest in the craftsmanship.

### 2. **Understand the Process**
- **Appointments Aren’t Guaranteed**: In many cases, you may not be able to directly request a specific appointment. Instead, staff will offer you an appointment based on their availability, as well as your history with the brand.
- **Understand the Stock System**: Hermès is known for its scarcity marketing strategy, especially for high-demand items like Birkins and Kellys. The availability of these bags often depends on your buying history and relationship with the boutique.

### 3. **Leverage Connections**
- **Speak to a Sales Associate**: Once you've made purchases, let the staff know you’re interested in a leather item. A good relationship with a knowledgeable associate is essential to getting an appointment for these high-demand goods.
- **Inquire About Special Requests**: Politely express your interest in leather items, and if you’ve developed a rapport, they may let you know about upcoming opportunities or even personally reach out when appointments are available.

### 4. **Use Social Media and Networking**
- **Join Online Communities**: Some collectors and buyers actively engage with Hermès fans online. Platforms like Instagram or forums (like PurseForum) can sometimes offer insights into how to better approach Hermès stores or special events.
- **Networking**: If you know anyone in Paris or who has connections within Hermès, it can be helpful to ask them for advice or introductions. However, always maintain respect for the exclusivity of the process.

### 5. **Be Prepared for the Waiting Game**
- **Patience is Key**: Even with the best relationships, securing a leather appointment can take time. Sometimes, it can be months before you get an appointment to view or purchase a sought-after item.
- **Stay Persistent, Not Pushy**: Remain polite and patient. Sales associates appreciate customers who express genuine interest but do not rush or pressure them.

### 6. **Consider Other Locations**
- **Different Hermès Boutiques**: If you are specifically interested in leather appointments in Paris, the main Hermès flagship on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré is the most famous. However, you might also try other locations (like the one on Rue de la Madelaine or in the Marais), where the atmosphere may be more relaxed and appointments can sometimes be more readily available.

### 7. **Travel Considerations**
- **Plan Your Visit**: If you’re planning to visit Paris specifically for this purpose, consider timing your trip during quieter months (e.g., January or February) when the store might not be as crowded, increasing your chances of getting an appointment.

The key to securing an appointment is to build trust, show genuine interest in Hermès products, and demonstrate loyalty through your purchases. While there are no guarantees, patience and persistence can go a long way in improving your chances.

 

[ladysarah]

All the information is a mish-mush of what is currently on line.

 

[papertiger]

This is very interesting so thanks for posting. It demonstrates how people mistakenly think AI driven by Internet data is like some kind of all seeing Oracle.

C_GPT just takes Internet data, averages it and concludes on the top of the bellcurve. Sine you're asking it now, it will only give you calculations on past performance, and in terms of Hermes and Chanel, this could be very misleading. The Hermes, Chanel, or mini-bag resell bubble could burst at any minute.

It doesn't have H or C company data or include pre-loved and retail sites not online. It can't critically analyse or un-see mistakes like when eBay sellers use an H bag as a lure to gain traffic with an either artificially high or misleadingly low price, or when Collector's Square list the same bag twice or move a decimal point by mistake.

 

[allanrvj]

You should also try Claude for this purpose. Just to test, I entered your choices and here's what I got:


"If I were making this choice, I'd select the Hermès Garden Party 30 in Gold. Here's my reasoning:

The Garden Party is the most versatile of the three options. Its structured tote design makes it practical for both professional and casual settings, while the Gold color (which is actually a warm tan/cognac shade in Hermès' color palette) is a timeless neutral that pairs well with virtually any outfit. The 30cm size is particularly practical - large enough to carry daily essentials including a laptop or documents, but not so large as to become unwieldy.

While the Chanel Boy Bag is undoubtedly iconic, its chunky hardware and edgier aesthetic can sometimes limit its versatility. The Picotin 18, while charming, is quite small and its bucket style with a simple closure might not be as secure or organized as one might need for daily use.

The Garden Party also tends to age beautifully, with its Negonda leather developing a lovely patina over time while maintaining its structure. It's also generally more under-the-radar than the instantly recognizable Chanel Boy Bag, which I personally would appreciate.

What draws you to these particular bags? I'm curious about what factors you're considering in making your choice."

 

[papertiger]

All the information is a mish-mush of what is currently on line.

Well, it gets them from forums like us. As you say, just a lot more generally. It's like Wikki, totally corruptible and only a starting point for research.

'AI' and 'Smart' are con terms. The so-called Smart meter that my electricity want to install in my home is no smarter than the one that records how much electricity I have used now except I log the numbers as opposed to it doing it itself (when it's not broken or charging incorrect amounts). Alexa (by Amazon) is AI, it's useless IMHO.

NO CHAT G - PT generated
If I want a round mini bag = buy a 18cm Picotin. Etoupe doesn't suit me so if offered I'd turn it down.
if I want a cute shopping/work tote = buy a GP 30. Gold is a great neutral for me so if offered I'd buy it.
Chanel has another forum.
Everything else is just fashion.
Ask Chat_GPT in 10 years it'll give you diffident answer.
Ask NO CHAT G - PT in 10 years, I'll give you the same answers.

 

[ladysarah]

Well, it gets them from forums like us. As you say, just a lot more generally. It's like Wikki, totally corruptible and only a starting point for research.

'AI' and 'Smart' are con terms. The so-called Smart meter that my electricity want to install in my home is no smarter than the one that records how much electricity I have used now except I log the numbers as opposed to it doing it itself (when it's not broken or charging incorrect amounts). Alexa (by Amazon) is AI, it's useless IMHO.

NO CHAT G - PT generated
If I want a round mini bag = buy a 18cm Picotin. Etoupe doesn't suit me so if offered I'd turn it down.
if I want a cute shopping/work tote = buy a GP 30. Gold is a great neutral for me so if offered I'd buy it.
Chanel has another forum.
Everything else is just fashion.
Ask Chat_GPT in 10 years it'll give you diffident answer.
Ask NO CHAT G - PT in 10 years, I'll give you the same answers.

Exactly - if there is misleading information out there, fake news etc - that is what AI will base its answers on.

 

[Muffin_Top]

Its advice for “how to secure a leather appointment in Paris” is really good.

Securing a leather appointment at Hermès in Paris, particularly for high-demand items like a Birkin or Kelly bag, can be a challenge due to the exclusivity and limited availability. However, with the right approach, you can improve your chances. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

### 1. **Establish a Relationship with Hermès**
- **Be a Loyal Customer**: One of the most important factors is building a relationship with the store. Start by purchasing smaller leather goods, scarves, or other accessories. Regular purchases will help you become familiar to the staff and build rapport over time.
- **Visit Multiple Times**: It’s not just about making a big purchase once. If you’re in Paris for an extended period, visit the store regularly, ask questions, and show genuine interest in the craftsmanship.

### 2. **Understand the Process**
- **Appointments Aren’t Guaranteed**: In many cases, you may not be able to directly request a specific appointment. Instead, staff will offer you an appointment based on their availability, as well as your history with the brand.
- **Understand the Stock System**: Hermès is known for its scarcity marketing strategy, especially for high-demand items like Birkins and Kellys. The availability of these bags often depends on your buying history and relationship with the boutique.

### 3. **Leverage Connections**
- **Speak to a Sales Associate**: Once you've made purchases, let the staff know you’re interested in a leather item. A good relationship with a knowledgeable associate is essential to getting an appointment for these high-demand goods.
- **Inquire About Special Requests**: Politely express your interest in leather items, and if you’ve developed a rapport, they may let you know about upcoming opportunities or even personally reach out when appointments are available.

### 4. **Use Social Media and Networking**
- **Join Online Communities**: Some collectors and buyers actively engage with Hermès fans online. Platforms like Instagram or forums (like PurseForum) can sometimes offer insights into how to better approach Hermès stores or special events.
- **Networking**: If you know anyone in Paris or who has connections within Hermès, it can be helpful to ask them for advice or introductions. However, always maintain respect for the exclusivity of the process.

### 5. **Be Prepared for the Waiting Game**
- **Patience is Key**: Even with the best relationships, securing a leather appointment can take time. Sometimes, it can be months before you get an appointment to view or purchase a sought-after item.
- **Stay Persistent, Not Pushy**: Remain polite and patient. Sales associates appreciate customers who express genuine interest but do not rush or pressure them.

### 6. **Consider Other Locations**
- **Different Hermès Boutiques**: If you are specifically interested in leather appointments in Paris, the main Hermès flagship on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré is the most famous. However, you might also try other locations (like the one on Rue de la Madelaine or in the Marais), where the atmosphere may be more relaxed and appointments can sometimes be more readily available.

### 7. **Travel Considerations**
- **Plan Your Visit**: If you’re planning to visit Paris specifically for this purpose, consider timing your trip during quieter months (e.g., January or February) when the store might not be as crowded, increasing your chances of getting an appointment.

The key to securing an appointment is to build trust, show genuine interest in Hermès products, and demonstrate loyalty through your purchases. While there are no guarantees, patience and persistence can go a long way in improving your chances.

Have you noticed this text mentions Hermès boutiques at Madeleine and in the Marais?
These locations don’t exist, in my humble opinion.

 

[ladysarah]

Have you noticed this text mentions Hermès boutiques at Madeleine and in the Marais?
These locations don’t exist, in my humble opinion.

You mean that you haven’t actually visited the Hermes boutique in the Marais and the other one in Madeleine? Excellent stock, don’t you know… best place to ‘score’!

 

[tmk_fr]

I tried a couple of things with Gemini (Google AI studio) for curating my collection, and it gave me a framework - organize by size (S,M,L) and by function (Travel, Work, Everyday, Formal). I added the "mini" category to create a grid with 16 places and then asked for advice on color balance based on seasonal color analysis (i.e. which colors suit a "Deep Winter" palette). Of course, the same bag could serve multiple use cases, but I have more than 16 bags, so this would already be considered a sort of capsule collection for me.

For shopping advice, I was very specific about what I wanted to fill certain gaps and it had some good ideas, but it doesn't have a complete understanding of the products (like saying a bag can't be worn crossbody when it comes with a 105 cm strap) or the practical experience shared by fellow TPFers. However, it did rightly call me out for being too dependent on H styles (haha).

For colors, I think it's a bit blind... It kept insisting that Hermes "Menthe" is a pastel color (when it is a bright, saturated green), and it considers pastels as "too light" for the target color palette. For colors like Nata and Craie the opinion was inconsistent - sometimes they were considered desirable colors to add and other times it said that they are too yellow and should be avoided. A good insight was that my collection is missing light neutrals, but then it suggested Etoupe, which I disagree with as Etoupe is too warm and muted for me.

Overall, it was helpful for developing a framework, highlighing differences, and suggesting new options that I hadn't considered before, but I wouldn't recommend taking its advice at face value. I know myself and my collection better than AI for sure, but now I have a more organized way of assessing what I would like to keep or re-home and being mindful when making new purchases. And at the very least, I agree with Gemini that a Birkin 25 would be a great addition!

 

[papertiger]

I tried a couple of things with Gemini (Google AI studio) for curating my collection, and it gave me a framework - organize by size (S,M,L) and by function (Travel, Work, Everyday, Formal). I added the "mini" category to create a grid with 16 places and then asked for advice on color balance based on seasonal color analysis (i.e. which colors suit a "Deep Winter" palette). Of course, the same bag could serve multiple use cases, but I have more than 16 bags, so this would already be considered a sort of capsule collection for me.

For shopping advice, I was very specific about what I wanted to fill certain gaps and it had some good ideas, but it doesn't have a complete understanding of the products (like saying a bag can't be worn crossbody when it comes with a 105 cm strap) or the practical experience shared by fellow TPFers. However, it did rightly call me out for being too dependent on H styles (haha).

For colors, I think it's a bit blind... It kept insisting that Hermes "Menthe" is a pastel color (when it is a bright, saturated green), and it considers pastels as "too light" for the target color palette. For colors like Nata and Craie the opinion was inconsistent - sometimes they were considered desirable colors to add and other times it said that they are too yellow and should be avoided. A good insight was that my collection is missing light neutrals, but then it suggested Etoupe, which I disagree with as Etoupe is too warm and muted for me.

Overall, it was helpful for developing a framework, highlighing differences, and suggesting new options that I hadn't considered before, but I wouldn't recommend taking its advice at face value. I know myself and my collection better than AI for sure, but now I have a more organized way of assessing what I would like to keep or re-home and being mindful when making new purchases. And at the very least, I agree with Gemini that a Birkin 25 would be a great addition!

Again, you can only analyse and judge it because you know better.

I wouldn't call Etoupe a light-neutral. It's not a dark neutral either, but it's certainly not light. Muted or not, it's not light.

Good luck finding your B25. That would be lovely in my wardrobe too . What you have to also remember is, that it's advising you a B 25 because that's the most highly sought after and most often recommended bag /size throughout the Net including SM and not (just) because it can magically see the gap in your wardrobe and recommend a missing size (even though it may have calculated that).

 

[papertiger]

Has anyone listed their H collection and asked AI to calculate what it's worth on the pre-loved market, even in different countries? You could ask which resellers offer the most per item too. Save some time ringing/emailing round.

Collectors and users are one thing, but I can see AI becoming quite useful for professional resell businesses. No more trawling through the Net when trying to list an entire estate sale.

 

[tmk_fr]

Again, you can only analyse and judge it because you know better.

I wouldn't call Etoupe a light-neutral. It's not a dark neutral either, but it's certainly not light. Muted or not, it's not light.

Good luck finding your B25. That would be lovely in my wardrobe too . What you have to also remember is, that it's advising you a B 25 because that's the most highly sought after and most often recommended bag /size throughout the Net including SM and not (just) because it can magically see the gap in your wardrobe and recommend a missing size (even though it may have calculated that).

Exactly, AI is not ready to beat my years of obsession 😆

I agree that Etoupe is not "light", however the suggestion did spark another idea - maybe a "light neutral" for me doesnt have to be white but can be something like Gold or Rouge H, which is different from my usual grey. So for each size, I target having two darker options (black/brown/grey) and two lighter options (white or color).

Actually, the B25 idea did not come from the AI, but rather from checking if my wishlist items would fill the identified gaps and asking which color would best maintain balance. Best of luck to us both for finding the perfect one!

Regarding a possible preference for high value, when asked for a direct comparison of 2 items in the same size/use, the response actually listed higher price as a con. In my prompt I did not set any price limit or ask about resale value but I did ask it prioritize quality and durability.

 

[WhiteBus]

good for sifting facts
but opinions, by their very nature are biased be they from a person or machine
Mary Cooper (mother of Nobel Prize-Winner, Sheldon Cooper)
is very good on that