Customer Service/Quality Control issues post here.

[*suzi*]

Thanks Tash for visiting this thread and giving us your input. It is always good to see you. I hope you won't just stop in at this thread. We all miss you in the main forum as well. You can still come and chat regardless of the number of BE bags you own or intend to own.

Jenova and Lovebags - Good points as always.

I do think this is an excellent place to voice concerns and hope everyone will feel comfortable. I wish all of the other forums had a place like this, because I know I have had huge issues with my Miu Miu and Chloe bags and have been too embarrassed to post. For instance, you would not believe the issues I have had with Chloe, and only yesterday did I finally reach the Chloe Assistant(after severe stalking) over a bag she had since April which is still sitting on her desk with broken hardware and will probably be there a few more months! It doesn't mean I will stop buying either of those brands. I am just not so naive as to think that expensive bags will not have issues just because they cost a lot. The true measure of if I will be back is how they handle the issue. Right now, Chloe is not looking good!

So, keep in mind that all designers have issues and all the subforums seem to have people like me that are uncomfortable posting about bad things that have happened. I think the only difference with BE and RM is that the actual designers pop in, which can be a real benefit to all of us, but it can also make it quite awkward when you want to vent! Hopefully, we have made it a little easier for everyone. Also, I hope people understand that many TPF ladies love their BE bags and have had excellent customer service. I expect them to be heard as well, since I believe in fair balance.

 

[Loquita]

Tash, thanks for posting!

I just wanted to say that I agree with your critique of the fiamma AP...I adore the color, but agree with you that it doesn't wear well. I have been disappointed in the delicate nature of mine as well, but can tell you that very regular moisturizing helps a great deal, since the fiamma leather tends to be a bit dry. The red glossy is far superior, and judging from the pebbled luxe leathers I can only imagine that that pebbled luxe scarlet red is more hardwearing, too. I have a red glossy bag and will be sticking to that and the scarlet in the future, since red is my favorite color.

As for the zipper, I agree. I think it sort of "catches" on all of the fabric, without actually damaging it. I had been using all of my APs without their wrist straps. However, I just started using all of them with their wrist straps (I also ordered one for my fiamma AP, since it was made before the wrist straps were automatically included) and it makes the zip work MUCH better. Just thought you'd want to know.

I also agree with the folks who would like more stock on the BE website...it drives me crazy!!! I don't make generally make any large modifications on my bags, so would love to order new colors/leathers in particular from BE, or from a stockist in the States (who always tend to be low on stock as well).

 

[Moonfancy]

I also think what's happened before to Jackie is this: She orders several colors as stocklist that she "thinks" will be the top sellers. And then the ladies want the colors that she didn't order say pinks or purples. .

Or more Clementine!
I wondered if she could find more of the Clementine - THE Clementine that there wasn't much of. I asked her about it, and she's looking.

 

[lovebags2]

Tash, thanks for posting!

I just wanted to say that I agree with your critique of the fiamma AP...I adore the color, but agree with you that it doesn't wear well. I have been disappointed in the delicate nature of mine as well, but can tell you that very regular moisturizing helps a great deal, since the fiamma leather tends to be a bit dry. The red glossy is far superior, and judging from the pebbled luxe leathers I can only imagine that that pebbled luxe scarlet red is more hardwearing, too. I have a red glossy bag and will be sticking to that and the scarlet in the future, since red is my favorite color.

As for the zipper, I agree. I think it sort of "catches" on all of the fabric, without actually damaging it. I had been using all of my APs without their wrist straps. However, I just started using all of them with their wrist straps (I also ordered one for my fiamma AP, since it was made before the wrist straps were automatically included) and it makes the zip work MUCH better. Just thought you'd want to know.

I also agree with the folks who would like more stock on the BE website...it drives me crazy!!! I don't make generally make any large modifications on my bags, so would love to order new colors/leathers in particular from BE, or from a stockist in the States (who always tend to be low on stock as well).

Hi Lo,

I told the ladies here about my red fiamma AP. It didn't wear well at all. I used it very gently and yet the corner's looked very worn. It became too noticeable to continue using although I never tried the moisturizer since I never needed it with any of my other leather purchases. Maybe the moisturizer would have solved? I don't think so but I can't be certain since I never gave it a try.

I did let Jackie know about this and we decided that my next AP would be either a glossy or cervo leather. So far absolutely no problems with my plum crash or black glossy cervo AP. They look brand new. And I expect my pewter AP will wear equally as well.

I definetely wouldn't try another AP in a matte or even sheen finish but the cervo and crash leather's work wonderful for me.

Hope this helps someone wavering on which leather to try for an AP.

I do LOVE my AP but it did take a little trial/error in discovering which leather works for this adorable purse!

P.S. Yes, sometimes my zippers do get stuck on my AP and black glossy Hug Me. I think your suggestion for using the wristlet is a great idea!

 

[lovebags2]

Thanks Tash for visiting this thread and giving us your input. It is always good to see you. I hope you won't just stop in at this thread. We all miss you in the main forum as well. You can still come and chat regardless of the number of BE bags you own or intend to own.

Jenova and Lovebags - Good points as always.

I do think this is an excellent place to voice concerns and hope everyone will feel comfortable. I wish all of the other forums had a place like this, because I know I have had huge issues with my Miu Miu and Chloe bags and have been too embarrassed to post. For instance, you would not believe the issues I have had with Chloe, and only yesterday did I finally reach the Chloe Assistant(after severe stalking) over a bag she had since April which is still sitting on her desk with broken hardware and will probably be there a few more months! It doesn't mean I will stop buying either of those brands. I am just not so naive as to think that expensive bags will not have issues just because they cost a lot. The true measure of if I will be back is how they handle the issue. Right now, Chloe is not looking good!

So, keep in mind that all designers have issues and all the subforums seem to have people like me that are uncomfortable posting about bad things that have happened. I think the only difference with BE and RM is that the actual designers pop in, which can be a real benefit to all of us, but it can also make it quite awkward when you want to vent! Hopefully, we have made it a little easier for everyone. Also, I hope people understand that many TPF ladies love their BE bags and have had excellent customer service. I expect them to be heard as well, since I believe in fair balance.

Thanks Suzi!

I think this is actually a very useful thread to have for those thinking about which leather or style to try and for BE as well. It's good for Jackie to read all these posts so that she can continue to improve. It's a win win for BE and the customer if that's the case!

 

[Moonfancy]

As for the zipper, I agree. I think it sort of "catches" on all of the fabric, without actually damaging it. I had been using all of my APs without their wrist straps. However, I just started using all of them with their wrist straps (I also ordered one for my fiamma AP, since it was made before the wrist straps were automatically included) and it makes the zip work MUCH better. Just thought you'd want to know.

Loquita, will you explain this again for me? I am trying to "picture" what you're describing. Do mean the zipper PULL gets caught or the zipper part itself? And when you say "fabric" do you mean like the fabric of your clothes? I want to understand this so I can check if my zippers are doing the same thing. Whenever someone gets upset about something on their BE bag, I always run to look at my own bags to see if mine are doing the same thing. I did lose a metal ring once, but Jackie replaced it.

This is a good thread. Sort of a "Consumers Report" publication. I just hope we're all letting Jackie know about upsets too so she can have the chance to help us. If she doesn't know, she can't help or explain.

 

[pinkdiamond]

i am glad this thread is getting going. as Lo knows, i am considering a red bag and I am yet to decide the leather. at least now i can rule out fiamma. I haven't really dont want to baby a bag. i dont sell mine on, but i like to use them on regular rotation so i want a quality leather.

i completely agree about the stock level of the website. i actually think it's losing BE business. half my problem is that i can't picture what a bag looks like in that colour until i see a photo! which means i hang around to wait for someone to bespoke it in a colour or leather type that i am considering to know if it will look right.

I also don't really care for the different colour linings, because i am a pink girl, so i would be happy to order straight off the website rather than bespoking as i am unlikely to add modifications, unless perhaps a top zipper.

I also think we need some new designs for fall. I really would prefer that to more leather choices which just confuse me without a photo of the actual bag.

 

[octopus17]

I really like the Fiamma Red leather, it's just so malleable, but it does scuff quite easily, but to me it still looks gorgeous. For the past few days I've been using my vintage Mulberry red congo Breton bag and I've noticed that has got scuffed too just from it's recent outings but it still looks gorgeous to my eyes. Other peoples opinions may be different though! Think I'm just a bit weird as I kind of like 'well-used' looking bags, although admittedly some look better than others when they get like that! My mother's the same - must be in the genes LOL!:weird: They've got to be clean though!

I completely agree with your points pinkdiamond (and that other ladies have made), I would love to see more bags in stock especially.

 

[sgreg]

ITA cornflower! Scuffing isn't a big issue for me. However, if it is just one or two scuffs they will really bother me (the scuffing has to be all over, not just a couple of scratches).

 

[TropicalGal]

I have a Fiamma Red Flirt with Me clutch -- and it is all beat up and looks great. It is no doubt, a very fragile leather.

 

[hipnycmom]

Suzi, this is off topic but the handle fell off my first Chloe (Heloise). It was replaced by the store with a different model, only for the same thing to happen. I thought I was completely unlucky but did a search and found some other posts in the Chloe forum - that was quite reassuring for me, and I learned that the Heloise was probably not a style that would suit me.

Regarding BE stock, I agree - it is sometimes a lot more convenient to just purchase something that is already made then to have to bespoke it. I really have difficulty envisioning things without seeing shapes and colors in reality and unfortunately once you bespoke something you are pretty much stuck with it. While I have been pleased with all my bags to date, I still believe it's great to have default options. Besides I am an impatient person when it comes to shopping... I just love when things are readily available to purchase.

 

[Loquita]

i am glad this thread is getting going. as Lo knows, i am considering a red bag and I am yet to decide the leather. at least now i can rule out fiamma. I haven't really dont want to baby a bag. i dont sell mine on, but i like to use them on regular rotation so i want a quality leather.

i completely agree about the stock level of the website. i actually think it's losing BE business. half my problem is that i can't picture what a bag looks like in that colour until i see a photo! which means i hang around to wait for someone to bespoke it in a colour or leather type that i am considering to know if it will look right.

I also don't really care for the different colour linings, because i am a pink girl, so i would be happy to order straight off the website rather than bespoking as i am unlikely to add modifications, unless perhaps a top zipper.

I also think we need some new designs for fall. I really would prefer that to more leather choices which just confuse me without a photo of the actual bag.

Yep -- I would definitely not go for the fiamma, then. Like you, I strong pinks so I adore the fuchsia undertone of the fiamma but it's too dry and delicate for an entire bag. Although originally labeled "fiamma," my LM Mini is actually red glossy and it is much heartier, but I think that for a bag that won't be babied pebbled glossy is the way to go! I am also on the hunt for a very study go-to red bag for work, and am definitely going with the scarlet. The only advantage to of the red glossy over the scarlet (besides a slightly different red -- and that's a personal choice) is the weight issue.

 

[Loquita]

Hi Lo,

I told the ladies here about my red fiamma AP. It didn't wear well at all. I used it very gently and yet the corner's looked very worn. It became too noticeable to continue using although I never tried the moisturizer since I never needed it with any of my other leather purchases. Maybe the moisturizer would have solved? I don't think so but I can't be certain since I never gave it a try.

I did let Jackie know about this and we decided that my next AP would be either a glossy or cervo leather. So far absolutely no problems with my plum crash or black glossy cervo AP. They look brand new. And I expect my pewter AP will wear equally as well.

I definetely wouldn't try another AP in a matte or even sheen finish but the cervo and crash leather's work wonderful for me.

Hope this helps someone wavering on which leather to try for an AP.

I do LOVE my AP but it did take a little trial/error in discovering which leather works for this adorable purse!

P.S. Yes, sometimes my zippers do get stuck on my AP and black glossy Hug Me. I think your suggestion for using the wristlet is a great idea!

Hey there! I think that the keeping the fiamma very moisturized is the way to go -- it protects the leather from scuffs, and makes any scuffs/rubbing already there less apparent. I also agree with sgreg and CB -- I don't expect my stuff to look pristine with regular usage and don't mind the "love scuffs" on my fave bags, but the fiamma did get very scuffed up right away.

 

[Loquita]

Loquita, will you explain this again for me? I am trying to "picture" what you're describing. Do mean the zipper PULL gets caught or the zipper part itself? And when you say "fabric" do you mean like the fabric of your clothes? I want to understand this so I can check if my zippers are doing the same thing. Whenever someone gets upset about something on their BE bag, I always run to look at my own bags to see if mine are doing the same thing. I did lose a metal ring once, but Jackie replaced it.

This is a good thread. Sort of a "Consumers Report" publication. I just hope we're all letting Jackie know about upsets too so she can have the chance to help us. If she doesn't know, she can't help or explain.

Sorry if I wasn't too clear before... What I meant is that sometimes the zipper seems to "catch" or hesitate a bit before sliding open or shut, almost as if it were caught in the fabric lining of the AP. (Which it never actually has -- the zipper just sort of mimics that sensation). No issues with my Hug Me thus far.

I have had zero problems with this since I started using the wristlet portion of the APs, though.

 

[*suzi*]

Suzi, this is off topic but the handle fell off my first Chloe (Heloise). It was replaced by the store with a different model, only for the same thing to happen. I thought I was completely unlucky but did a search and found some other posts in the Chloe forum - that was quite reassuring for me, and I learned that the Heloise was probably not a style that would suit me.

Regarding BE stock, I agree - it is sometimes a lot more convenient to just purchase something that is already made then to have to bespoke it. I really have difficulty envisioning things without seeing shapes and colors in reality and unfortunately once you bespoke something you are pretty much stuck with it. While I have been pleased with all my bags to date, I still believe it's great to have default options. Besides I am an impatient person when it comes to shopping... I just love when things are readily available to purchase.

Wow. Heloise is so pretty. That's good to know. Frankly, I can put up with just about any issue as long as there is some type of effort to resolve it. The thing that ticked me off about Chloe is that they were supposed to have it fixed in a couple of weeks, and when I went looking for it two months later the Chloe Assistant wouldn't return my emails or messages. I thought they lost it, and I was soooo frustrated! I will be waiting a few more months now, and am quite sure I will have to stalk her again!

Regarding BE stock, I am quite sure I would have a lot more bags if they were readily available. I am also extremely impatient, and want instant gratification when I make my decision to buy.