Answering my own question here, I suppose that the impact of the GH is enough on it's own, and that tassels might detract; whereas with RH perhaps the tassels add to the look.
i love the tassels. i think they're a signature part of the bbag, but they can get annoying. i can't count how many times i've stepped or sat on them. they're still holding up pretty well regardless. besides, i've put up with more discomfort and annoyances for the name of fashion.