The GST Club

[whiteswan1010]

I just read a blog from the UK May, 2018 about the GST. Rumors were swirling across the pond that they might bring it back. I wish!!! You never know. She said rumors had started a few years before it's demise and that was correct.
Fingers crossed!

 

[BigAkoya]

@willeyi Oh I wish they would bring out a pale pink too in the classic or the totes. We have one shot at white - Cruise.
Coming soon. It will be off white for classics. I talked with SA. She looked at book, said page was white but swatch sample on it looked like a cool tone off white. Pink is coming as well. But bet it will be bright pink.

Hi! On my GSTs... no, I didn’t mean to imply all mine are perfect... noooo... they all have a slight sag at the back but they are perfect from the front hence my theory and test on stuffing those pockets. Keys and 3 lipsticks apparently get heavy! I still put my keys and lipsticks there though.

Yes... on the tote I plan to get, when I hand carry the shoulder straps are longer than the bag, but it looks ok. You can also fold the straps over the bag and it’s a bit shorter and I don’t like it that way.

I love pale pink and ivory (off-white) and have GSTs in both those colors. I use my pale pink a lot, but ironically, I hardly use my ivory. For the summer, I love using white bags, and ivory I use more in the winter as a winter white (goes great with dark/black outfits and pearls).

On the ivory tote you saw, I don’t think it will sag, but I also didn’t like the way it closed. And really for me, I need a way to use a bag hand held as I don’t really like a “shoulder only” bag like the M/L. And lastly, the CC is a functional CC that you use to close the tote. This means if you keep the tote open, the CC logo has a hole in it which I think looks goofy. For a tote, I like to keep the bag open so for me, the CC logo will always have that “hole”. I hope that makes sense. So.. that bag didn’t work for me.

Here is a photo of the tote with the straps over each other.

 

[BigAkoya]

Oh... and for repairs... I like Leather Surgeons more. I have used both. I have also used Chanel repair back in the day when they used to do spa cleaning and repairs.

To me, Leather Surgeons takes more care to preserve the original bag.

Funny you asked this question as I just sent in two white bags for them to tidy up since summer is over (GST and Medallion tote). I also asked them to see if they could fix my saggy back on the GST so I’ll see how it turns out. They said the sag was not bad at all, but like you, I like structured bags so if the white GST comes back good, I will send my other GSTs to them too.

And I do stuff my GSTs at times when I need to carry my laptop, book, water bottle... it’s all fine and does not cause sagging. It’s only sags if I stuff those side pockets.

 

[whiteswan1010]

Hi! On my GSTs... no, I didn’t mean to imply all mine are perfect... noooo... they all have a slight sag at the back but they are perfect from the front hence my theory and test on stuffing those pockets. Keys and 3 lipsticks apparently get heavy! I still put my keys and lipsticks there though.

Yes... on the tote I plan to get, when I hand carry the shoulder straps are longer than the bag, but it looks ok. You can also fold the straps over the bag and it’s a bit shorter and I don’t like it that way.

I love pale pink and ivory (off-white) and have GSTs in both those colors. I use my pale pink a lot, but ironically, I hardly use my ivory. For the summer, I love using white bags, and ivory I use more in the winter as a winter white (goes great with dark/black outfits and pearls).

On the ivory tote you saw, I don’t think it will sag, but I also didn’t like the way it closed. And really for me, I need a way to use a bag hand held as I don’t really like a “shoulder only” bag like the M/L. And lastly, the CC is a functional CC that you use to close the tote. This means if you keep the tote open, the CC logo has a hole in it which I think looks goofy. For a tote, I like to keep the bag open so for me, the CC logo will always have that “hole”. I hope that makes sense. So.. that bag didn’t work for me.

Here is a photo of the tote with the straps over each other.

View attachment 4206740

Ok, but the front is the most important anyway, so this is great information, thanks. Oh I did see a pale pink GST not in good condition though (most aren't) for sale, it's gorgeous! I agree with ivory and winter whites BTW.

I didn't even know you have to open and close that classic tote! Got too excited looking at it I guess. I'm used to it with the classics so it wouldn't be a deal breaker for me. But come to think of it, I have the M/L, jumbo, maxi. Why would I need another shoulder bag when I am looking for "totes"?

Oh no, I agree, don't like the straps crossed over on that at all.

Did you mention a few days back about the CC's being a bit too loud on the GST's? I forgot. I answered that I didn't think it was loud at all, especially the newer imprinted into the bag ones. Think from 2010 on. You know what is loud? A friend has a Cambon tote "pink" with "black CC's". Now that's some in your face stuff!

 

[whiteswan1010]

Oh... and for repairs... I like Leather Surgeons more. I have used both. I have also used Chanel repair back in the day when they used to do spa cleaning and repairs.

To me, Leather Surgeons takes more care to preserve the original bag.

Funny you asked this question as I just sent in two white bags for them to tidy up since summer is over (GST and Medallion tote). I also asked them to see if they could fix my saggy back on the GST so I’ll see how it turns out. They said the sag was not bad at all, but like you, I like structured bags so if the white GST comes back good, I will send my other GSTs to them too.



And I do stuff my GSTs at times when I need to carry my laptop, book, water bottle... it’s all fine and does not cause sagging. It’s only sags if I stuff those side pockets.

Ok, good to here about Leather Surgeons. I talked to them and mentioned eventual sagging of GST. He said that they can definitely fix that. Said they take out the gusset's and fix them somehow.

I asked about my 2 water spots. He said I have a good chance it can be removed because luckily my lining is satin.
Some years are "faille" a form of silk and he told me it's almost impossible to get spots out. They can also replace lining if need be. Actually they can redo a GST and make it brand new from what I gather. Very efficient, nice operation seems like.

Now with Chanel's new policies with the 5 years, forget it. And they won't even look at stains or water marks. Chanel sent their bags to Leather Surgeons too right?

 

[BigAkoya]

Ok, good to here about Leather Surgeons. I talked to them and mentioned eventual sagging of GST. He said that they can definitely fix that. Said they take out the gusset's and fix them somehow.

I asked about my 2 water spots. He said I have a good chance it can be removed because luckily my lining is satin.
Some years are "faille" a form of silk and he told me it's almost impossible to get spots out. They can also replace lining if need be. Actually they can redo a GST and make it brand new from what I gather. Very efficient, nice operation seems like.

Now with Chanel's new policies with the 5 years, forget it. And they won't even look at stains or water marks. Chanel sent their bags to Leather Surgeons too right?

Correct. They used to be the Chanel repair shop before that secret came out. I’ve been buying Chanel for years and one time, my bag came back with a Leather Surgeon repair order inside my back pocket and that’s when I first knew Leather Surgeons did Chanel. I talked to Gerry and he says they know everything about Chanel bags, color matching, etc. I totally trust them.

Wait a few years until your bag gets more beat up, as in the white leather on the bottom will show wear, then send it in. I try not to over mess with bags now as they are bags and meant to be used and every scar, stain and sag is a bag’s life well lived with lots of stories to tell.

 

[BigAkoya]

Ok, good to here about Leather Surgeons. I talked to them and mentioned eventual sagging of GST. He said that they can definitely fix that. Said they take out the gusset's and fix them somehow.

I asked about my 2 water spots. He said I have a good chance it can be removed because luckily my lining is satin.
Some years are "faille" a form of silk and he told me it's almost impossible to get spots out. They can also replace lining if need be. Actually they can redo a GST and make it brand new from what I gather. Very efficient, nice operation seems like.

Now with Chanel's new policies with the 5 years, forget it. And they won't even look at stains or water marks. Chanel sent their bags to Leather Surgeons too right?

By the way, one more thing.. my white GST with SHW is from 14C, and I have used that white bag every summer since I purchased it. Only now am I sending it in for a touch up. These bags are tough!

I hope you enjoy your white GST! You have a beautiful bag!

 

[whiteswan1010]

Correct. They used to be the Chanel repair shop before that secret came out. I’ve been buying Chanel for years and one time, my bag came back with a Leather Surgeon repair order inside my back pocket and that’s when I first knew Leather Surgeons did Chanel. I talked to Gerry and he says they know everything about Chanel bags, color matching, etc. I totally trust them.

Wait a few years until your bag gets more beat up, as in the white leather on the bottom will show wear, then send it in. I try not to over mess with bags now as they are bags and meant to be used and every scar, stain and sag is a bag’s life well lived with lots of stories to tell.

Haha, yes some secret! That's funny with the LS ticket too!

Guess what? I just checked Youtube for a video on GST repair. I don't know how to "link. It's called Leather Surgeons and GST repair. They made her sagging bag look brand new. here comes the funny part. She said Gerry told her to stuff the bag well when not in use and lay it on it's side. Do you?

I know, everyone says what you say, I'm really more upset with myself about it more than anything else. Unfortunately they are on the upper front backing up against middle zip compartment. Wish it was in the back I wouldn't think about it twice.

 

[whiteswan1010]

By the way, one more thing.. my white GST with SHW is from 14C, and I have used that white bag every summer since I purchased it. Only now am I sending it in for a touch up. These bags are tough!

I hope you enjoy your white GST! You have a beautiful bag!

Thanks and you too. Please keep me posted on the outcome! And if any of us hear of new totes arriving.

 

[BigAkoya]

Haha, yes some secret! That's funny with the LS ticket too!

Guess what? I just checked Youtube for a video on GST repair. I don't know how to "link. It's called Leather Surgeons and GST repair. They made her sagging bag look brand new. here comes the funny part. She said Gerry told her to stuff the bag well when not in use and lay it on it's side. Do you?

I know, everyone says what you say, I'm really more upset with myself about it more than anything else. Unfortunately they are on the upper front backing up against middle zip compartment. Wish it was in the back I wouldn't think about it twice.

I read about it, tried it and and it’s bogus for me. Does not work because once you sit it up again, it sags again. It might appear to work for bags who don’t sag, but those would not sag Sitting up anyway. So why even bother. I think it’s just wear and tear on the bag and I don’t baby my bags, I use them wholeheartedly.

Part of the appeal of having my bags is they are in my closet all lined up standing nice and tall for me to admire. I swap bags to match my outfit, so I like to see them all out. I don’t store them in dust bags or the box as they tend not to get used and then what’s the point of having a nice bag (or any nice thing) if you are not going to use it.

That’s just me and I know everyone is different.

 

[whiteswan1010]

I read about it, tried it and and it’s bogus for me. Does not work because once you sit it up again, it sags again. It might appear to work for bags who don’t sag, but those would not sag Sitting up anyway. So why even bother. I think it’s just wear and tear on the bag and I don’t baby my bags, I use them wholeheartedly.

Part of the appeal of having my bags is they are in my closet all lined up standing nice and tall for me to admire. I swap bags to match my outfit, so I like to see them all out. I don’t store them in dust bags or the box as they tend not to get used and then what’s the point of having a nice bag (or any nice thing) if you are not going to use it.

That’s just me and I know everyone is different.

Hi! Yes it does seem odd to me lying the bag down. I'm keeping it standing like all my totes. Some put them in boxes? Mine are in storage just in case I ever decide to sell though, tags, receipts, everything filed away.

I had a question. How comfortable are you in sending out your bags via UPS or Fed Ex with no insurance? They do not have the best rack records. Thanks

 

[BigAkoya]

Hi! Yes it does seem odd to me lying the bag down. I'm keeping it standing like all my totes. Some put them in boxes? Mine are in storage just in case I ever decide to sell though, tags, receipts, everything filed away.

I had a question. How comfortable are you in sending out your bags via UPS or Fed Ex with no insurance? They do not have the best rack records. Thanks

Hi! Yes, I keep all my receipts, tags, boxes, ribbons, etc. to either resell or gift someone. It’s amazing how keeping all that stuff adds to confirm authenticity and folks tend to love it. When gifting, my friends also love to have all the original items. I do not give the receipt though. For reselling, I only show the receipt as evidence of authenticity and cover any personal info. Once the item is sold or gifted, I toss the receipt.

On mailing items, yes, I mail all the time and I do insure bags and jewelry. For bags, I use FedEx, signature required. For jewelry, I use USPS, Registered Mail. I actually prefer to use FedEx but they do not insure jewelry for high dollar amounts. USPS Registered Mail has a insured value high limit and they do insure jewelry. For Registered Mail, the USPS clerk told me the package is signed off and locked up every time it changed hands or stops for the night. USPS is a bit slow due to this extra step. Hence I prefer FedEx for bags. My goal in shipping luxury items is to get it out of the system as fast as possible and get it delivered to avoid any issues. I never use UPS as I have had bad experiences with them for receiving items and returning clothing.

With UPS, twice... not once, but twice... they lost Chanel shoes, the first time was a pair of ballets sent to me and the second was a different pair of ballets I mailed back to the store. I did not have to pay for either loss, but I am done with UPS for any shipping that I originate.

I have never had any problems at all with a FedEx, and I think the “Signature Required” puts delivery folks on alert.

If you are thinking of using Leather Surgeons, they send you a prepaid label so you do not need to pay for shipping. They also do not charge shipping back to you. It’s quite easy.
They take about 3-4 weeks.

 

[BigAkoya]

By the way... if you are itching to buy something else Chanel... how about a mini o-case and card holder for your new lovely GST? They fit great in that tote! I have a matching set in dark pink that looks quite happy in my bags.

I think another trip to Chanel is in your future! [emoji1]

 

[whiteswan1010]

Hi! Yes, I keep all my receipts, tags, boxes, ribbons, etc. to either resell or gift someone. It’s amazing how keeping all that stuff adds to confirm authenticity and folks tend to love it. When gifting, my friends also love to have all the original items. I do not give the receipt though. For reselling, I only show the receipt as evidence of authenticity and cover any personal info. Once the item is sold or gifted, I toss the receipt.

On mailing items, yes, I mail all the time and I do insure bags and jewelry. For bags, I use FedEx, signature required. For jewelry, I use USPS, Registered Mail. I actually prefer to use FedEx but they do not insure jewelry for high dollar amounts. USPS Registered Mail has a insured value high limit and they do insure jewelry. For Registered Mail, the USPS clerk told me the package is signed off and locked up every time it changed hands or stops for the night. USPS is a bit slow due to this extra step. Hence I prefer FedEx for bags. My goal in shipping luxury items is to get it out of the system as fast as possible and get it delivered to avoid any issues. I never use UPS as I have had bad experiences with them for receiving items and returning clothing.

With UPS, twice... not once, but twice... they lost Chanel shoes, the first time was a pair of ballets sent to me and the second was a different pair of ballets I mailed back to the store. I did not have to pay for either loss, but I am done with UPS for any shipping that I originate.

I have never had any problems at all with a FedEx, and I think the “Signature Required” puts delivery folks on alert.

If you are thinking of using Leather Surgeons, they send you a prepaid label so you do not need to pay for shipping. They also do not charge shipping back to you. It’s quite easy.
They take about 3-4 weeks.

That's exactly what I do. I put the ribbons, camellia inside the boxes and black out my personal info on receipt part when taking photos of the bag to consign. I do not mail that to them though. It does give you credibility and more $$$ for your bag when you sell.

That's exactly why I was asking. Leather surgeons seems to think it's fine as I asked about it using their label (they will tack on the price when job is finished for back and forth) but it's not insured. UPS only insures to $100.00. I'm uncomfortable.
In my experience I think all of the shippers are all kind of risky. I've had bad experiences myself in the past.
I'm just not sure using that label. He did say it's not all that easy getting your money back, they put in depreciation, bla, bla, bla.

PS. I would like to express ship it too!

 

[BigAkoya]

A green one! New from Lauren at Saks.