VCA ~ Van Cleef Arpels Discussion thread!

[880]

Hi everyone - I've been lurking here for a long time, and am happy to join this community!

I searched for an answer to this question but couldn't find a concrete policy. My SA just told me that I can't return a bracelet that has been resized (Alhambra 5 motif RG GMOP + pave). They resized before sending it to me, and upon wearing it, I didn't feel as though the GMOP suited me and want to exchange for a Perlee sweet clover bracelet.

Is my SA correct here (can't return/exchange a resized but otherwise unworn bracelet), or should I push this with her?

Many thanks for your advice!

It’s my understanding that it’s like a tailored garment. Once it’s altered, it’s not possible to return. This is not just at VCA but at every premier luxury house, the only exception being manufacturers defect. Sadly the change of heart (feeling that the GMOP did not suit) is considered buyers remorse. I believe if something has not been altered and purchased on line, one may be able to get your CC refunded, otherwise a return in store is store credit only, but I am not sure. Another member who has done such a return may be able to clarify. I agree, if this had not been explained, you could try to ask for an exception. I do think the GMOP pave is gorgeous and more versatile than the perlee sweet clover (the latter of which seems like a stacking piece, but JMO). Good luck!

tonight DH and I went to a VCA cocktail themed Fifth Avenue Blooms (there were outdoor installations along Fifth) with a floral sketchbook theme illustrated by French artist Alexandre Benjamin Navet. I also tried on a bouton d’or ring. I think I prefer either the balck and green pendant or the carnelian choker to the ring, but im leaning towards the Bulgari tubogas necklace first. It’s chilly in NY, but I’m wearing my dior techno palm skirt (winterized by chanel jacket and dark hose) bc that’s the closest I could think of to spring blooms Lol.

 

[Minich]

Thanks to everyone for all of your input! I really appreciate it, and will see what my SA says about an exception. @880 I'm also in NYC - unfortunately missed this week's event, looks like it was a lovely time!

 

[missie1]

I was thinking maybe for Mother’s Day they decided to release a bunch of stock?? But after that Cardi B post I’m sure we’re going to feel another wave of no inventory after that ad lol

Once its has been resized it can't be returned. I just had mine resized and had to sign that I acknowledge that.

Wow really never knew that. Also I never had to sign anything but I’m assuming that’s because I handle everything over the phone.

 

[TankerToad]

It’s my understanding that it’s like a tailored garment. Once it’s altered, it’s not possible to return. This is not just at VCA but at every premier luxury house, the only exception being manufacturers defect. Sadly the change of heart (feeling that the GMOP did not suit) is considered buyers remorse. I believe if something has not been altered and purchased on line, one may be able to get your CC refunded, otherwise a return in store is store credit only, but I am not sure. Another member who has done such a return may be able to clarify. I agree, if this had not been explained, you could try to ask for an exception. I do think the GMOP pave is gorgeous and more versatile than the perlee sweet clover (the latter of which seems like a stacking piece, but JMO). Good luck!

tonight DH and I went to a VCA cocktail themed Fifth Avenue Blooms (there were outdoor installations along Fifth) with a floral sketchbook theme illustrated by French artist Alexandre Benjamin Navet. I also tried on a bouton d’or ring. I think I prefer either the balck and green pendant or the carnelian choker to the ring, but im leaning towards the Bulgari tubogas necklace first. It’s chilly in NY, but I’m wearing my dior techno palm skirt (winterized by chanel jacket and dark hose) bc that’s the closest I could think of to spring blooms Lol.


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Hoping to catch at least one or two of their events this week
You look lovely @880

 

[EpiFanatic]

Hi everyone - I've been lurking here for a long time, and am happy to join this community!

I searched for an answer to this question but couldn't find a concrete policy. My SA just told me that I can't return a bracelet that has been resized (Alhambra 5 motif RG GMOP + pave). They resized before sending it to me, and upon wearing it, I didn't feel as though the GMOP suited me and want to exchange for a Perlee sweet clover bracelet.

Is my SA correct here (can't return/exchange a resized but otherwise unworn bracelet), or should I push this with her?

Many thanks for your advice!

That is my understanding. Once it has been resized it is yours.

 

[glamourbag]

It’s my understanding that it’s like a tailored garment. Once it’s altered, it’s not possible to return. This is not just at VCA but at every premier luxury house, the only exception being manufacturers defect. Sadly the change of heart (feeling that the GMOP did not suit) is considered buyers remorse. I believe if something has not been altered and purchased on line, one may be able to get your CC refunded, otherwise a return in store is store credit only, but I am not sure. Another member who has done such a return may be able to clarify. I agree, if this had not been explained, you could try to ask for an exception. I do think the GMOP pave is gorgeous and more versatile than the perlee sweet clover (the latter of which seems like a stacking piece, but JMO). Good luck!

tonight DH and I went to a VCA cocktail themed Fifth Avenue Blooms (there were outdoor installations along Fifth) with a floral sketchbook theme illustrated by French artist Alexandre Benjamin Navet. I also tried on a bouton d’or ring. I think I prefer either the balck and green pendant or the carnelian choker to the ring, but im leaning towards the Bulgari tubogas necklace first. It’s chilly in NY, but I’m wearing my dior techno palm skirt (winterized by chanel jacket and dark hose) bc that’s the closest I could think of to spring blooms Lol.


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This skirt! How good does this look paired withe plaid print? I love mixed prints but I rarely do it ( for some reason I feel my pairings never look refined like this). The ring is lovely but I think you should focus on the necklaces as I feel this is where your current interest lies and while I love the VCA carnelian on you, (I dont recall seeing the Bvlgari but Im sure its spectacular too) I bet it makes a lovely look when paired with your bracelet. Its always fun to have options!!

 

[880]

@Minich, I would love to see a comparison action pic of you in the GMOP page versus the sweet perlee clover if you took some try on pics. Or any of your other things (to get a sense of your style and flow). I always take multiple try on shots before purchase, bc I don’t trust my eye until I can compare pics at home, but that’s just me.

This skirt! How good does this look paired withe plaid print? I love mixed prints but I rarely do it ( for some reason I feel my pairings never look refined like this). The ring is lovely but I think you should focus on the necklaces as I feel this is where your current interest lies and while I love the VCA carnelian on you, (I dont recall seeing the Bvlgari but Im sure its spectacular too) I bet it makes a lovely look when paired with your bracelet. Its always fun to have options!!

Thanks @glamourbag, @TankerToad for your kind words! @TankerToad, would love to hear about the events you get to this week @glamourbag, id love to take the outfit credit, but actually my chanel SA is critical in a quick thumbs up or down on the mix (chanel, dior, brunello, hermes, plus vintage). She gave a thumbs down to the two outfits below (chanel jacket dior tops), not bc of pattern, but bc “the textures were all wrong” lol. She also texts me her outfits (not just chanel) for inspiration. The Bulgari necklace is a match to the RG serpenti tubogas diamond bracelet that I wear daily (seen most clearly in fourth Pic below). I tried the necklace on in Rome in Sept 2021, but I passed then bc I prefer to buy jewelry at my home boutique, and bc didn’t think I’d wear it much (I prefer to coordinate but not really match). But, I’ve been thinking about it since. Re the next purchase, even my VCA SA said he thinks to get the Bulgari first, bc there is only one left. I think I posted the carnelian (pic three) versus the black and green earlier, but here they are again) I also take a poll among my SAs plus Briony R (i do a lot by group vote) and buton d’or is not a favorite, so I’m still debating. My RTW choices are generally not minimal, (despite the black outfit I wear to buy jewelry lol) so that’s another factor to consider.

 

[eternallove4bag]

Thanks @glamourbag, @TankerToad for your kind words! @TankerToad, would love to hear about the events you get to this week @glamourbag, id love to take the outfit credit, but actually my chanel SA is critical in a quick thumbs up or down on the mix (chanel, dior, brunello, hermes, plus vintage). She gave a thumbs down to the two outfits below (chanel jacket dior tops), not bc of pattern, but bc the textures were all wrong lol. She also texts me her outfits (not just chanel) for inspiration. The Bulgari is a match to the serpenti tubogas diamond bracelet that I wear (Pic below) Re the next purchase, even my VCA SA is like get the Bulgari first, bc there is only one left. I think I posted the carnelian versus the black and green earlier, but here it is. I also take a poll among my SAs (i do a lot by group vote) and buton d’or is not a favorite, so I’m still debating. My RTW choices are flamboyant, so that’s another factor to consider.
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Love your style and I absolutely love what you are wearing! I cannot believe your chanel SA gave a thumbs down on these outfits! Okay, I am giving two thumbs up to make up for that

 

[nightbefore]

Is this the bulgari necklace?

https://www.bulgari.com/en-int/jewellery/necklaces/serpenti-necklace-rose-gold-350680

To me it looks like you love this piece and I see a similar behavior of mine. When I like something $$$, I try to walk away from that piece. I try to make myself believe that I could get a similar effect or the same joy from another piece (this is maybe a piece I already have, maybe a cheaper style, maybe a similar price tag but more “worthy” etc etc, you get my point). Yet I find myself keep thinking about the original piece.

 

[880]

@glamourbag , my chanel SA says if you want to mix pattern, its easiest to change the scale and keep the same color palette. She’s an expert and breaks those rules herself, but she honestly looks like an instagram lifestyle model for coco chanel meets vintage thirsted treasure Meets glam rocker (Im more cute tea time, Asian channeling Audrey)

@nightbefore , yes that’s the one . IMO it’s a bridge btwn older Bulgari pieces worn by my mom and gM’s generation and the modern viper lines that are so popular today. Yep, I have the same way of looking at things. I’ve been thinking about it for months, but I also had the feeling that I had some time As it’s a particular taste. Most people prefer the newer serpenti viper all diamond one and don’t want as much metal. (Also my Bulgari SA was on maternity leave and just got back and offered to request a transfer, no obligation. But, if a chunky, olive skinned Asian chick can ever feel like elizabeth Taylor, this is probably what will do it lol.

Love your style and I absolutely love what you are wearing! I cannot believe your chanel SA gave a thumbs down on these outfits! Okay, I am giving two thumbs up to make up for that

She also made me take down like twenty pairs of spring shoes. She’s great, it’s just my closet is a mess by the time I’m done Lol. I love my dior SA, but he is enthused about everything ans not as picky

awwwh, thank you @etoupebirkin for your kind post below! You are so kind and so generous with sharing your knowledge! I also have to say that everyone here has taught me so much about how to Choose and wear jewelry that speaks to one‘s own individual style. TPF is such a supportive community. Thank you again! Hugs

 

[etoupebirkin]

It’s my understanding that it’s like a tailored garment. Once it’s altered, it’s not possible to return. This is not just at VCA but at every premier luxury house, the only exception being manufacturers defect. Sadly the change of heart (feeling that the GMOP did not suit) is considered buyers remorse. I believe if something has not been altered and purchased on line, one may be able to get your CC refunded, otherwise a return in store is store credit only, but I am not sure. Another member who has done such a return may be able to clarify. I agree, if this had not been explained, you could try to ask for an exception. I do think the GMOP pave is gorgeous and more versatile than the perlee sweet clover (the latter of which seems like a stacking piece, but JMO). Good luck!

tonight DH and I went to a VCA cocktail themed Fifth Avenue Blooms (there were outdoor installations along Fifth) with a floral sketchbook theme illustrated by French artist Alexandre Benjamin Navet. I also tried on a bouton d’or ring. I think I prefer either the balck and green pendant or the carnelian choker to the ring, but im leaning towards the Bulgari tubogas necklace first. It’s chilly in NY, but I’m wearing my dior techno palm skirt (winterized by chanel jacket and dark hose) bc that’s the closest I could think of to spring blooms Lol.


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I absolutely adore this outfit!!! What a great Chanel SA!!!
I hope you had a fantastic time.

 

[glamourbag]

@Minich, I would love to see a comparison action pic of you in the GMOP page versus the sweet perlee clover if you took some try on pics. Or any of your other things (to get a sense of your style and flow). I always take multiple try on shots before purchase, bc I don’t try my eye until I can compare pics at home, but that’s just me.


Thanks @glamourbag, @TankerToad for your kind words! @TankerToad, would love to hear about the events you get to this week @glamourbag, id love to take the outfit credit, but actually my chanel SA is critical in a quick thumbs up or down on the mix (chanel, dior, brunello, hermes, plus vintage). She gave a thumbs down to the two outfits below (chanel jacket dior tops), not bc of pattern, but bc “the textures were all wrong” lol. She also texts me her outfits (not just chanel) for inspiration. The Bulgari necklace is a match to the RG serpenti tubogas diamond bracelet that I wear daily (seen most clearly in fourth Pic below). I tried the necklace on in Rome in Sept 2021, but I passed then bc I prefer to buy jewelry at my home boutique, and bc didn’t think I’d wear it much (I prefer to coordinate but not really match). But, I’ve been thinking about it since. Re the next purchase, even my VCA SA said he thinks to get the Bulgari first, bc there is only one left. I think I posted the carnelian (pic three) versus the black and green earlier, but here they are again) I also take a poll among my SAs plus Briony R (i do a lot by group vote) and buton d’or is not a favorite, so I’m still debating. My RTW choices are generally not minimal, (despite the black outfit I wear to buy jewelry lol) so that’s another factor to consider.
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Its great the two of you have this connection where you can trust her honest opinion without any offense being taken. It is exactly what I seek with an SA too - someone who does not sugar coat everything and isnt a "yes, yes, yes" person and it sounds like you found this valuable trait in her. A true friend and keeper.

I now recall you saying you tried the necklace on in Rome and saying how wonderful it was. I agree with you that its best to shop with your local store as tempting as it is to go elsewhere. I do like the B d'Or but I think that everyone might be right here and you should get the Bvlgari first. You obviously love it and cannot stop thinking of it as well as it will make a beautiful set to wear (going by the bracelet it will be a show-stopper combination). I'd say don't sleep on it toooooo long. If this is the last one, you do not want to miss out or have to wait a long wait time if they need to make you one!

 

[missie1]

@Minich, I would love to see a comparison action pic of you in the GMOP page versus the sweet perlee clover if you took some try on pics. Or any of your other things (to get a sense of your style and flow). I always take multiple try on shots before purchase, bc I don’t trust my eye until I can compare pics at home, but that’s just me.


Thanks @glamourbag, @TankerToad for your kind words! @TankerToad, would love to hear about the events you get to this week @glamourbag, id love to take the outfit credit, but actually my chanel SA is critical in a quick thumbs up or down on the mix (chanel, dior, brunello, hermes, plus vintage). She gave a thumbs down to the two outfits below (chanel jacket dior tops), not bc of pattern, but bc “the textures were all wrong” lol. She also texts me her outfits (not just chanel) for inspiration. The Bulgari necklace is a match to the RG serpenti tubogas diamond bracelet that I wear daily (seen most clearly in fourth Pic below). I tried the necklace on in Rome in Sept 2021, but I passed then bc I prefer to buy jewelry at my home boutique, and bc didn’t think I’d wear it much (I prefer to coordinate but not really match). But, I’ve been thinking about it since. Re the next purchase, even my VCA SA said he thinks to get the Bulgari first, bc there is only one left. I think I posted the carnelian (pic three) versus the black and green earlier, but here they are again) I also take a poll among my SAs plus Briony R (i do a lot by group vote) and buton d’or is not a favorite, so I’m still debating. My RTW choices are generally not minimal, (despite the black outfit I wear to buy jewelry lol) so that’s another factor to consider.
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I loved the plaid but to be honest the one she vetoed looks amazing as well. Love your style. It’s obvious the necklace is meant to be yours as you keep thinking about it. That’s the sign to go ahead and purchase

 

[Minich]

@Minich, I would love to see a comparison action pic of you in the GMOP page versus the sweet perlee clover if you took some try on pics. Or any of your other things (to get a sense of your style and flow). I always take multiple try on shots before purchase, bc I don’t trust my eye until I can compare pics at home, but that’s just me.

Great news!! She is going to make an exception and exchange for the Perlee - thanks, everyone, for helping this newbie out!

@880 I'll post some pictures in the family portrait thread once I receive a few more pieces from my SA this week

 

[kvitka4u]

Need your help my fellow VCA lovers. One item on my wishlist for 2022 was sapphire frivole pendant. I thought it was non-negotiable. I have not seen it in person but had an opportunity to try diamond pavè yellow gold one and really liked it. Now I can’t decide which one to get. Would welcome your thoughts and feedback. Including a pic of the yellow gold one.