Just wanted to share my experience in Paris this past month, as I had never visited any of the 3 locations. I was there for 6 days but half of the time was away on day trips. (Sorry, this is long 😬 so feel free to skip)
George V:
Asked to look at any Constance to go wallets (no exotics), a particular shirtdress from the Sp/Su collection (really pushing my luck here), and a silver “punk” ring that I haven’t been able to get in my size. Was shown a few exotic CTG (all lovely but I don’t think I can do a full exotic), as well as a regular leather Kelly to go - which I politely declined even though the SA politely insisted (“are you sure?”). No luck on the dress and ring - but was able to check out a lovely Della Cavalleria Elan on display, the SAs even encouraging me to take a few pics lol. Even though I didn’t purchase anything, the SAs were all very pleasant and I had a few brief conversations with them in regards to my vert amande K28 (my first choice color!) and farandole bracelet that I was wearing that day.
Sevres:
Attempted at a CTG and was successful with one in gold PHW! Didn’t need an appt (I believe that except for FSH, any “to go” is not considered a bag), and the SA even looked up inventory on his phone for a 24/24 in the 29-size at any of the 3 locations (I’m on the hunt for a Touch version). I also grabbed a sweater and a men’s Hippographe rectangle scarf, then ventured to the Petit H section to peruse (so fun). As some have seen/said, the Sevres space is absolutely beautiful and there’s a cute cafe and bookstore inside; food, books, and bags - my ultimate dream-space. The SAs at the “welcome” desk (once you head downstairs) were all very helpful and responsive when you requested to look at particular items, and checked in with you while you were waiting (drinks too!).
FSH:
This was actually my first stop after I arrived and I was focused on getting a Planifleur scarf for mom, wallet for brother, and a last-season 45 scarf for me that is no longer available in the States (why do I do this to myself). I had a thorough and helpful convo with some SAs up in Fine Jewelry about the possibility of adjusting a bracelet, with no pressure to purchase. I was also able to find the shirtdress in my size, and came a few days later after alterations were complete. As the appt desk was momentarily empty, I went up and indicated that I was looking for a Touch 24/24 in the 29 size - and if there were any openings if the bag were to be available. (I clarified that I wasn’t looking for a BKC - so I don’t know if that helped?) She asked me to wait on the side as she looked up inventory/SA availability, and then she was immediately bombarded with 4-5 ppl. After that, she asked me to come back later that day to see if there were openings. I left and ate lunch, walked around, shopped for last minute items, and then headed back in the afternoon. It was a different woman at the desk and I quickly reiterated the conversation from earlier; she checked and indicated that there were no openings at that moment and that they only had the 21 size. She couldn’t secure me an appt as it was already full for the next day but encouraged me to check-in tomorrow and that a Touch 29 “may” come in the next day (but no guarantees). Unfortunately, I was leaving early in the morning the next day so I took it as fate. My impression was that they were willing enough to offer the bag to me if it was available, but ONLY if there was a cancellation/an SA that also became available (and every SA I saw was SO busy). No gatekeeping. And I think that’s fair.
I think it helped that I went in with low expectations and was mainly focused on getting various presents for family, and some RTW and last-season items for myself. There’s just so much to see in and around Paris that H becomes less of a priority - and exploring other parts of the city was unforgettable. I have to admit that the atmosphere of desperation(?) was palpable at the appointment desk in FSH but I understand that for some, Paris may be their only opportunity to attain a certain bag.
I do think that being polite (and possibly gracious?) goes a long way. Each SA was always willing to locate an item and discuss details, open a display case, have me try on items - even with multiple ppl interrupting and asking to see something after I declined it(!). For the lack of a better word, it was a memorable experience!
Can I ask you the price of this beauty (and a picture if you have one 🙈) ? Thanks a lot
