Where/how to buy Birkin?

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C

chancetodoover

O.G.
Aug 4, 2008
36
0
#1
I'm planning a trip to Europe for fall this year and I really want to come back with a Birkin (will be my first), granted the shops have any inventory (raisin or black w/ ghw not sure 30 or 35) but I'm so confused with the VAT and taxes and refunds and 800$ limit.

I can only bring back 800$ worth of goods to the US? Do I declare the Birkin at customs? How does the VAT work? I saw a post by Roxane re: VAT but I'm still confused.

Also, while searching TPF I saw that some say the Birkin is cheapest in UK and others say France, any tips as to where is the cheapest place to get one?

Thank you in advance for your answers!
 
#2
the whole VAT discussion just took place recently, on the current prices thread as i recall. actually all your questions can be answered by doing searches in the related threads.
with the ups and downs of the currencies, i don't think anyone will be able to tell you whether to buy your bag in the autumn in France, England, or even the U.S.!
but wishing you good luck!
 
#3
No way you can get a Birkin in London - not from Hermes anyway. The only place where you can still get Birkins now are in the US (as it is very expensive there and sales are not so good) and in Paris FSH.

Also, when exactly in Fall? October onwards is fine, not Spetember so much as they only just return to work by that stage and too early to churn out Birkin bags.

Tax: By law, you will have to declare it to customs (esp if you are trying to bring back the box) - I am sure no body does so willingly.... and its a personal item... yada yada yada yada
 
#4
If you'll be in other cities in Europe, check the boutiques for inventory. There are plenty of stories of people finding dream bags as walk-in tourists in Germany, Belgium, and The Netherlands.
 
#5
If you carry your Birkin back as a piece of luggage there is no way of telling where you purchased it, so you won't have to declare tax. I would suggest sending the box back home separately.
 
#6
femme*fatale said:
If you carry your Birkin back as a piece of luggage there is no way of telling where you purchased it, so you won't have to declare tax. I would suggest sending the box back home separately.
Click to expand...

Sorry to say this but I do not think we should be giving advice on how to break the law on this forum no matter how well your intention is.

The US Government is VERY strict on tax evasion. By law, you are required to sign a declaration on the Customs form, if you lie on that form, it is a felony and you will be breaking the US law. I have just returned from a cruise in the Carib, and I have witnessed this first hand.

All it takes is one envious person to report you and the IRS/Customs agent will come knocking... although you might get away with it at the airport, smuggling is still a crime and criminal prosecutions can be made against you years after you have brought the bag in.

A bag is not worth going to prison over.
 
#7
I hear that currently sales are not good in paris & italy, so they have some birkins in stock. Does anyone know if this is true? I would die to get my hands on one, but I can't wait for 6 months to 2 years (as per the lady in Hermes store here in Dubai).
 
#9
Is it completely impossible to find a Birkin or a Kelly in London?

I'm heading to London/ Paris in April too, and it may work out to be cheaper in London actually.

Thanks!
 
#10
No harm trying as you are going to be in London - who knows, your luck might be in.

Selfridges gets Birkins from time to time - as they do not have a list, any Birkins they get go straightly on the shelve for passing trade.

Its only cheaper in London so long as the £ = €1.15 or less - if the exchange rate goes to €1.16 to the £, the bag will be cheaper in Paris. Currently the rate is at €1.08 to the £, so its cheaper in London.
 
#11
isadora said:
Is it completely impossible to find a Birkin or a Kelly in London?

I'm heading to London/ Paris in April too, and it may work out to be cheaper in London actually.

Thanks!
Click to expand...


Try Harrods and bond street as well, they do have them in store from time to time its not as difficult as everyone makes it out to be.
just dont run up to the first sa you see and ask for a birkin!!!lol
obviously it is easier in paris... but dont give up on london just yet
 
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