Interesting question, and insightful responses so far! To me, it’s a matter of loving craftsmanship and quality, and seeing it as a long love story. I first entered an Hermès store at 30, I was going to get married and wanted a silk carré (that I still have!). That day I met my SA. I knew later on that she was surprised by the fact that I was only interested in silk. I didn’t even mention the bags. Every now and then, I visited the boutique, just for the pleasure of the eyes.
8 years later I bought my first H bag - a Bolide 31. And for my 40th birthday, my first Birkin.
In these 11 years, my admiration and appreciation for the brand have grown slowly and deeply. I somehow feel that Hermès has that particular ability to welcome you in the family, with no need for you to spend tons of money, but show your appreciation and true love for the history, craftsmanship and dedication of the people who work there. So for me, it’s not a matter of how young or old one should be to start the journey, but most importantly, to be patient, not have a bag as a goal, and just enjoy the tiny pleasures of every piece, from silk to RTW to jewelry, home decor or bags, whether it is possessing them or just contemplating them in the boutique.