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How I’ve Scaled Back My Makeup Bag – The Anna Edit

by Lina Clémence August 16, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

It’s all in the edit…

This post contains ad affiliate links (denoted by a ‘*’) & gifted items (denoted by ‘ad – gifted). You can read my full disclaimer here.

Is it just me, or does it feel like we’re in our ‘editing’ era? A time for scaling back, decluttering and truly holding onto those everyday pieces and nothing more? Of course it SINGS to me and is something I’ve been working on wardrobe-wise over the past few months, so over the weekend when I had a spare moment I took the time to have my biggest beauty declutter to date. What remains are those things that I wouldn’t hesitate to repurchase once I’d used them up. Everything’s in date (I hope!) and there’s no ‘just in case’ products in there because SPOILER – I never end up using them anyway!!! Of course there are still more items than I could use on a daily basis because I like a few dewy base options, lip choices and eyeshadows to pick from, so I pack an everyday makeup bag* just to make getting ready in the morning quick and easy. I like to rotate it every few weeks as my tastes, the seasons and my skin shifts. Here’s what’s in it now…

BASE

I’m big into tinted moisturisers these days. Even though my skin isn’t GREAT right now, I love that sheerness and barely there feel on my skin, even on days when I’m doing more of a ‘proper’ makeup. So at the moment it’s the MAC Face + Body Foundation in C2* that I’m reaching for daily. For concealer I’m currently using two – the Glossier Stretch in Light 2* for under my eyes – it’s really the only concealer I like for under there as my eyes get so dehydrated – and the ILIA True Serum Concealer in 1.75* which has a bit more coverage to it, but is still really smooth and spreadable so I find it good for my psoriasis patches and blemishes. For cheeks I’m not really into blush or highlighter at the moment, I just go in with the Makeup By Mario SoftSculpt Transforming Skin Enhancer in Light Medium* which does a bit of everything in one. Like seriously, what did I do before this product!? It adds warmth and softness with a bit of contouring too. If I’m feeling fancy or filming I might add in the Victoria Beckham Contour Stylus in Travertine* which is ridiculously easy to use and blends like a dream. Such a foolproof contour product.

EYES

I set my brows in place with the Patrick Ta Brow Gel* AS ALWAYS (although I’ve got the new Anastasia one* in the post right now as I thought I’d give it a go!). Then usually I’ll use one of my liquid or cream eyeshadows, but I thought I’d pull out this powder eyeshadow palette that includes such classic as (from top left clockwise) – MAC Tete-a-Tint*, Soba*, Anastasia Beverly Hills Eyeshadow in Caramel* and MAC Uninterrupted*. Can you remember those!? Very similar tones as my cream eyeshadows, but just thought I’d get them into the everyday rotation as it had been a while. For mascara I’m currently loving the Lancome Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara* – another blast from the past. I tend to apply and then take a clean spoolie through the ends to get rid of any bulk.

LIPS

Most days I just stick the Summer Friday Lip Butter in Pink Sugar* on and call it a day, but seeing ass it feels like it’s been ages since I used any other lip product I thought I’d add the Hermes Rosy Lip Enhancer in Rose Tan* to my bag. A very similar tone to the lip butter to be honest, but with a slightly more satin-like finish.

TOOLS

I keep my tools SIMPLE. Mostly because I hate washing my brushes, so on a daily basis I only use three. The Westman Atelier Blender Brush* – so expensive, but I’ve used it every day since it launched in 2019 and it still looks brand new, you get what you pay for with this one. The Beauty Pie Pro Angled Cheek Brush* – just the best for the Makeup By Mario Bronzer – it sort of hugs the cheekbones so you can get a really precise, but easily blended application. Then finally the Makeup By Mario EF2 Brush* which is what I use to apply all my eyeshadow products, no matter the formula. Oh and the Suratt Eyelash Curlers* which again I’ve used for years – nothing else comes close.

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August 16, 2025 0 comments

Cosmetics

The Thrill of Your Best Friend’s Makeup Bag

by Lina Clémence August 11, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

All great love stories have a great beginning. Mine began with an email. Except, it’s not the kind of love story you’re thinking about. Mine is of great friendship with my best friend, Daniela Morosini, who you might know from her reporting at The Business of Beauty. The year was 2019, and I was working at New York’s The Cut as a social media editor and moonlighting as a beauty writer. Kathleen Hou, my then editor and now the Beauty Director at Elle, passed along Daniela’s name for Why Is Your Skin So Good, my column devoted to uncovering people’s skincare secrets. On October 8, I wrote to Daniela, “Hope you’re well. Could you tell me more about your skincare routine + beauty philosophy for consideration? Would love a list of the products that you use and how you got into skincare.” (It was only last year that I learned that she thought I was being passive aggressive from the tone of my email.) Little did I know that one short message would spark a years-long friendship that’s transcended an ocean—3,470 miles to be exact.

You see, I live in New York City and Daniela lives in London, where she grew up. That means maintaining our relationship requires a bit more work than your average friendship. There’s the meticulously scheduled FaceTimes and phone calls, the surprising care packages and snail mail, and most recently, Locket, an iPhone widget that lets you share live photos directly on a person’s homescreen. It’s always a bright spot in my day when I unlock my phone and see that she left behind a silly little selfie or encouraging note. And of course, because we’re both beauty-obsessed girls, we’ve left each other plenty of product recs and reviews, albeit short ones (Locket only lets you leave a note under 25 characters!), along the way. Ahead of Galentine’s Day this year, we wrote each other letters expanding our thoughts on the ones we can’t stop gushing over. I hope they inspire you to write your own best friend a sweet note, too, beauty products included or not.

Dear Daniela, light of my life,

It’s another cold, windy day in New York without you—dramatic or not dramatic enough? I can’t wait for the day that you move here and we can grab coffee and talk endlessly without having to worry about the five-hour time difference. In the meantime, I need to catch you up on a few things. You already know that I fell down the huge flight of stairs in my building the other day (I’m bruised but fine!), but what I really want to tell you is that I think I might have a problem? I opened my purse yesterday and found that I had not one, not two, but 12 (!!) lippies inside. The Fara Homidi liner you gave me in LA last June was in there. You nailed it when you picked Minky for me. It pairs so beautifully with just about any one of my lip glosses, but lately, I’ve been topping it off with Eadem Le Chouchou in Burnt Malai or Ami Colé lip oil in Excellence. You know I’m a sucker for dusty rose shades and those two perfectly fit the bill. And by the way, I’m still obsessed with the Lily-Rose Depp combo of Chanel lip liner in Nude Brun and Rouge Coco Flash in Boy. But when I want something a teensy bit brighter (don’t laugh, you know I’m afraid of color!), I go for the Westman Atelier Squeaky Clean balm in Petal or the U Beauty lip compound in Rom Com, which I swear I manifested into the world; it’s wonderfully pink with the perfect amount of shimmer. I have one waiting for you in my apartment.

By the way, every single part of my body is dry as a husk right now—sexy, I know—and the same goes for my lips. Keeping them moisturized and flake-free has been a process. But I have my arsenal: Dr. Dennis Gross’s lip treatment (which gives me a beautiful plump, too!), Anfisa’s Ân-Gloss (I have one in every single purse), Glossier’s Balm Dotcom (in Black Cherry obviously) and Retrouvé’s serum (it’s always first in my multi-step lip routine). This is what they meant when they said it takes a village, right? Meanwhile, I’ve been dry brushing my body like crazy with my Tronque brush, and if I’m feeling extra motivated or I’m not freezing before jumping into the shower, I’ll exfoliate with the Lilis Instant Peel. The true cherry on top is Kate McLeod’s daily body stone though. It’s incredibly buttery and leaves my skin so, so soft. I want a never-ending supply. I can go through them pretty quickly, so in order to make them last, Neutrogena’s light sesame oil is my girl. I keep a bottle in my shower and pat it on while my skin is still wet on the days I give my stones a rest.

Keeping my face and hands moisturized is another story. I’ve been exfoliating with Danucera’s D22 Tonic every morning and night since I got a facial with Danuta at Rescue Spa—you have to go!—and that’s made a huge difference in the way my creams sit (and how my skin feels and looks). So the order goes: toner, face mist (I finished bottles of S’Eau Prima’s and La Prairie’s), eye cream (I ran out of my Bioeffect EGF power cream and opened my Augustinus Bader rich one), and moisturizer (I know you like the SkinFix Barrier+ cream, too). And then you know you got me hooked on Ultra Violette Supreme Screen years ago—I can’t count how many bottles I’ve gone through or that you’ve sent me across the pond. And for my hands? Generous layers of Koba’s hand cream and Dr. Dana’s cuticle oil—or Essies’ apricot roller when I want a little fragrance. I love that the oil comes in a roller because I’ve spilled so many dropper bottles before.

Oh and don’t be alarmed, but I’m changing… You know how I used to hate perfumes on the sweeter side? Turns out I had just never found ones that resonated with me. I still wear Victoria Beckham’s Suite 302 for dates—it’s sultry and smoky after all—but for everyday, I’ve been loving Guidance 46 by Amouage, Ambra by Santa Maria Novella, and The Apartment by Abel, all mixed with my signature Vanilj by Maya Njie—Amber Grimes told me you have to confuse people with your scent and I took that to heart. None of them are cloyingly sweet, only cozy and warm, and with Vanilj? Ugh, I’m obsessed. BTW: I know you love Guidance 46; I think of you every time I wear it. Also! I know every beauty writer always says they get sooo many compliments when they wear a certain perfume, but that’s really the case here. I promise!

Don’t worry, I’m not changing too much. I got a mani-pedi at Jin Soon in Tribeca this week—we’ll go when you’re here, my treat—and still got the classic Daise combo: Catbird Baby Pearl (I want pearl everything, always) on my hands and Jin Soon Crush (my replacement for Essie’s Clambake, RIP) on my toes. Some things will just never change, like my love for you.

ILY, IMY,
x Daise

P.S. You were absolutely right about the Rhode pocket blushes. They really do live up to the hype. I’m newly obsessed with Piggy and Freckle. They leave behind the most perfect flush. What’s your favorite shade?

My sweet baby Daise,

This week I’ve spoken about you so much that one of my colleagues told me, and I quote, “I can tell how much you love her because of how you smile when you speak about her.” We are never beating the wifey allegations, and I’m OK with that. It’s just as grim in London as it is in New York—sludgy, aggressive rain and damp air that has made my sweater stick to my back even while I’m shivering.

I spent all this week rattling around alone in my apartment binge-watching Law and Order: SVU before Netflix takes it offline in a few days here. I realize that when we’re not physically together, there are few other folks who I want to really spend that much time with. This is an issue to such an extent that my therapist told me I need to “find more Daises” (don’t worry; I fired him.)

BUT talking to you is a ray of sunshine, especially when we’re gabbing all things beauty, our shared language, our starting point, our North Star. As you know, I just got back from a long trip to Melbourne, and packing for a trip is a great test of what beauty products you actually love. Here’s what I learned: There are many good conditioners on the market, including the eye-poppingly expensive Sisley Restructuring conditioner ($90!), which does make my hair feel like cashmere. But the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Glycolic Gloss conditioner is so good, too, and when I failed to pack enough for a three-week trip (because Cathay Pacific have some bizarro rule about three-ton vats in your checked bag), I was able to grab another in Chemist Warehouse and enjoy the same silky soft hair. I love it! Other things for my hair I couldn’t quit: Oribe’s Gold Lust mask, for extra TLC. But also! In Australia I rediscovered Kevin Murphy. Did you ever get into this brand? It was in the UK for a hot minute but seems to have disappeared, but as an Aussie brand, it’s thankfully still around Down Under. It’s… amazing?? Every product feels so pro, smells amazing and just WORKS. The Ever Bounce blow dry spray is my favorite right now.

Now you know I’m a makeup girlie. One of the many things we have in common is a love of stuffing our purses so full of lip oils, balms, and tints that we are technically carrying a semi-lethal weapon. Right now, I think we both love our Summer Fridays lip balms—Iced Coffee is my go-to—but have you gotten into the Dream lip oils? They’re a holy grail for me. They give you color and shine but no stickiness. Blush Dreams and Pink Cloud are to die for. Also, I know we’ve both been swatching the Rhode Peptide Lip Shapes. I like Lift and Bend smudged together with balm in the middle. Try it! I also think the new Celine Le Rouge lipsticks are just really, really good. They clunk shut with a satisfying, just-closed-the-Benz plunk, have a chic gold tube, and a gorgeous, satin-y color payoff. I’ve been wearing Le 16 and La Peau Nue the most. Oh, and we’re still coordinating our Rhode Pocket blushes too, right? Toasted Teddy is my fave. It’s also good on your lips. (Speaking of pockets, please tell me you’ve tried the Chanel Le Lift hand cream now? It’s so adorably pocket-sized.)

If you were staying at mine this weekend, here’s where we’d be right now: We’d be standing in front of my fridge, pulling out a bottle of wine and some chocolate covered fruit (I know you love that), and I’d be getting you to pick a sheet mask or two out of my cooler. My friend Ramòn stocked me up last week, so I have loads that he got in Korea: CosRx, Dr. Jart+, JM Solution… I would for sure let you use my La Mer Soft Cream—no one else though. Even if you said your elbows were dry, I’d offer you it. That’s how special you are! I would also let you use my Poems From The Lab Future Focus, which I get shipped from Canada. It is the best vitamin C, and Stephen Ko, who made it, is a genius. No weird smell, no oxidizing, just gorgeous, glowy, plump skin.

Also, while I was in Australia, Alex Padgett, the founder of Educated Mess, gave me a bunch of her products. Freeze Frame is incredible. I feel so snatched after using it—you know I love a peptide… or eight. She’d just gotten her clinical trials back while we had lunch, and I could tell from how visibly emotional she was that they were good. I have lost count of how many toners/essences/milks I’m rocking with, but it’s pretty much Rhode Glazing Milk or the La Mer essence. For some reason, I have to apply lip balm while I do this? Any flavor of Laneige sleeping mask will do but ideally Vanilla.

Finally, fragrance. You know that I love a naughty but nice scent: sweet but then not; feminine but then sharp; come closer and then step back. Right now, the one that’s doing it for me is Guerlain L’Art & La Matiere Tobacco Honey. It’s totally irresistible. But I also will never turn my back on Attrape-Rêves from Louis Vuitton, which smells like our trip to LA last year and you braiding my hair and us re-upping our sunscreen in Erewhon and and and and–––––

Yours always,
x Daniela

P.S. Paddington says hi.

Photos via Daise Bedolla and Daniela Morosini

August 11, 2025 0 comments

Luxury Fashion

Where to Buy Women’s Hermes Bag? Prices by Top Cities

by Lina Clémence July 28, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Hermès bags are indeed timeless, but their prices aren’t. You don’t just buy a Hermès bag—you strategize, negotiate, and sometimes crisscross continents to save (or spend) thousands. Welcome to the world’s most exhilarating luxury treasure hunt.

With global markups, tax policies, and 2025 price hikes in play, where you buy a Birkin could change your entire bill. Let’s break it down.

Context: Decoding the Global Puzzle of Hermès Pricing

Hermès handbag prices, particularly for coveted models like the Birkin and Kelly, are a global enigma worth unraveling. Influenced by currency fluctuations, taxes, import duties, and the brand’s meticulous strategy to maintain exclusivity, these prices vary significantly across cities. Whether you’re eyeing a Birkin 25 in Togo leather or a Kelly 28, understanding this puzzle can save you a fortune—or help you invest wisely in a timeless asset.

Factors Influencing Price Variances

Several factors contribute to the price differences across these cities:

Currency Fluctuations: Exchange rates have a significant impact on costs. A weaker euro (1.1602 USD as of July 2025) benefits USD-based buyers in Europe, while stronger currencies like HKD (0.127392 USD) and SGD (0.7525 USD) increase prices in Hong Kong and Singapore.
Taxes and VAT:
- Europe (Paris, London): A 20% VAT is included, but non-EU residents can claim a 10-12% refund in Paris, reducing costs. The UK’s lack of VAT refunds since 2021 makes London less competitive.
- United States: Sales taxes (8-10%) are added at checkout, with no refund options.
- Dubai: A 5% VAT is refundable for tourists, but import duties may elevate base prices.
- Hong Kong: No sales tax provides a slight advantage, though high base prices offset this.
- Singapore: A 9% GST is refundable for tourists, lowering the effective cost.
Import Duties: U.S. tariffs (increased by 4.4-5.9% in May 2025) and duties in Dubai, Hong Kong, and Singapore raise retail prices. For example, U.S. duties on a $8,235 bag add approximately $609.
Hermès Pricing Strategy: Annual price increases (6-7% in the U.S., 4.5% in Europe for 2025) reflect rising production costs and exclusivity. Limited supply and high demand drive secondary market premiums, especially for unique colors or hardware.
Local Market Demand: Hermès tailors prices to local demand and prestige, ensuring the brand’s aura remains untouchable while adjusting for regional purchasing power.

Where in the World Is the Birkin Cheapest? A Global Price Breakdown

Buying a Hermès bag isn’t just about when—it’s about where. Geography can shave thousands off your purchase or significantly inflate it. Here’s how location shapes your Hermès experience.

Europe: The Hermès Sweet Spot

Best Bang for Your Euro? France—Specifically Paris.

No Import Duties: Made in France, these bags escape import tax markups.
Lower Luxury Taxes: Compared to the U.S. or Asia, European taxes are more traveler-friendly.
VAT Refunds: Tourists can reclaim 12-14% (up to €1,253 on a €8,950 Birkin 25).

Tip: VAT refund processed at the airport—keep receipts and allow extra time.

Reality Check: Walking into a Paris boutique and snagging a Birkin is rarer than spotting a unicorn in a Kelly bag. Appointments are scarce, and demand is fierce.

Tip: Build a purchase history or secure a leather goods appointment months in advance.

Smart Shopper Callout: Why Pay More in Paris?

If you’re hunting for the cheapest European country to buy a Hermès bag, don’t stop at France. Italy and Spain often beat Paris by a few percent, thanks to:

Higher VAT rates (21–22%)
Stronger refund systems (~12–14% back)

Real Talk: A €9,000 Birkin in Madrid could net you €100–200 more in VAT savings than the same bag in Paris. That’s not a travel myth—that’s receipts.
Reddit anecdote: One Hermès lover shared how her purchase at the Madrid boutique scored her a better refund and easier availability—no Paris queue drama.
Some reports also confirm that the 2025 Hermès price hikes initially affected France. Meanwhile, VAT refund rates in Spain and Italy held strong, making them real contenders for best-value buys.

Bottom line? If you’re asking: “Hermès VAT refund Italy, Spain vs France?”—your answer is simple: skip the Paris premium.

Sharper VAT Refunds with the Same Luxury Base:

All Hermès bags are crafted in France, so base prices (€8,950) are consistent across Europe. The difference lies in VAT reclaim rates.
Italy (22% VAT) and Spain (21% VAT) offer 12-14% refunds, edging out France’s 10-12% on 20% VAT. On a €9,000 bag, this translates to €1,080-1,260 saved in Italy/Spain versus €900-1,080 in Paris.

New York & Los Angeles: The American Premium

Price Snapshot: Among the highest retail prices due to import duties and sales tax (which varies by state). Import Duties + State Taxes, combined, can add 15–25% or more.
Luxury Markup: U.S. prices often include local demand premiums. (8.875% in NYC, 9.5% in LA), with no refund options.
Perk: Slightly better chance of scoring seasonal or limited-edition pieces.
Reality: Zero refunds—what you see is what you pay.
Tariff Surges: As of Spring 2025, new trade policy shifts have tacked on additional costs to select luxury imports.

Latin America: Sticker Shock Zone

Countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Chile regularly top the charts for Hermès price inflation.

Duties + Luxury Tax Stack: Import fees + high sales taxes = price tags 50–60% higher than in Paris (e.g., $15,585-$16,624 on a $10,390 base).
Limited Availability: Smaller inventory means fewer chances to land a quota bag at steeper prices.

London: Pricing vs. Pound

Brexit Effect: Prior to Brexit, tourists could claim a ~20% VAT refund. Now? No VAT refunds at all.
Currency Fluctuation: If the pound weakens, you might still save relative to U.S. prices.
Tip: Factor in 20% VAT in the sticker price—you’re paying it.

Important: As of January 2021, non-UK visitors can no longer reclaim VAT in-store or at the airport. Don’t let your wallet be surprised.

Dubai: Luxury Hub with a Side of Tax-Free Appeal

Myth: Dubai is tax-free.
Reality: There’s a 5% VAT, refundable to tourists, but prices are generally higher than in Paris.
Availability: Great for exotic leathers but competitive for quotas due to HNW (high net worth) traffic.

Tip: Worth browsing if you’re in town, but not a “buy-low” destination.

Hong Kong & Singapore: Asia’s Prestige Pricing

Hong Kong:

No import duties or GST.
Prices are still high due to regional demand.
Sometimes favorable compared to Mainland China.

Singapore:

9% GST (as of 2023) included in retail price.
No VAT refund available for handbags.
Prices are among the highest globally.

Tip:

If you’re visiting purely for price savings, Paris almost always beats Asia, even after factoring in airfare.

Best Time and Place to Buy a Hermès Bag in 2025

Timing Tips

Shop in January to March before annual hikes
Avoid tourist high season (June–August)

Location Ranking

Madrid or Milan: Best VAT + stock access
Paris: Classic, competitive, but tougher appointments
Dubai: Great for exotics, tax-refund perks
U.S. resale: Buy pre-hike inventory

Historical Price Trends and Investment Value

Hermès bags appreciate steadily. A Birkin 30 in Togo leather cost $7,700 in 2008 and $11,600 in 2024. By 2030, it may surpass $20,000—resale values routinely double the retail price, especially for rare colors and hardware. So, it is highly crucial to shop at the best prices to maximize gains.

Let’s Take Up A Case Study For Hermès Birkin 25 in Togo Leather

Hermès Birkin 25 in Togo Leather Prices Across Top Global Cities in 2025

The Hermès Birkin 25 in Togo leather stands as a pinnacle of luxury, celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship, exclusivity, and robust investment potential. Prices for this iconic handbag fluctuate widely across the globe, shaped by currency volatility, tax structures, import duties, and Hermès’ strategic approach to maintaining its elite status.

This detailed case study provides a comprehensive comparison of retail prices for the Birkin 25 in Togo leather across Paris, Italy, Spain, New York, Los Angeles, London, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Mexico as of July 17, 2025, 05:17 PM IST. It integrates updated pricing insights from diverse sources, including local data for Singapore, Dubai, and Mexico, and explores the factors driving price variations, offering actionable tips to maximize value and highlighting the bag’s investment appeal.

Price Variances Across Global Hermès Boutiques

The retail price of a Hermès Birkin 25 in Togo leather varies significantly depending on the city, influenced by local economic conditions, taxation policies, and Hermès’ pricing strategy. The table below presents estimated retail prices across key global cities as of July 2025, with local currency values converted to USD using the following exchange rates: 1 EUR = 1.1602 USD, 1 GBP = 1.338 USD, 1 AED = 0.2723 USD, 1 HKD = 0.127392 USD, 1 SGD = 0.7525 USD, 1 MXN = 0.0501 USD (approximated for July 2025).

City	Price (Local Currency)	Price (USD)	Notes
Paris (France)	€8,950	$10,390	VAT refund drops it to ~ $8985
Italy	€8,950	$10,390	VAT refund to ~$9,100
London	£7,760	$10,390	No VAT refunds post-Brexit (since 2021)
New York (U.S.)	$12,700	$12,700	Sales tax adds ~$1,130-$1,170
Dubai	Dhs. 38,764	$10,546	5% VAT included, refundable
Hong Kong	HKD 105,000	$13,376	High demand, no sales tax
Singapore	SGD 18,000	$13,545	9% GST refundable to ~$12,330
Mexico	MXN 250,000	~$12,500	High duties + taxes, estimate

P.S. Prices also depend on color, hardware, leather, and rarity—unique combinations can cost considerably more.

Notes on Pricing:

Paris (France): €8,950 reflects a 4.1% rise from 2024, with VAT refunds for non-EU buyers.
Italy/Spain: €8,950 matches France’s base price, with 12-14% VAT refunds (e.g., €1,080-1,260 on €9,000) due to higher VAT rates (21-22%).
New York (U.S.): $12,700 includes 2025 tariff hikes; sales tax varies by state.
London (UK): £7,760 is based on €8,950 converted at 1 EUR = 0.867 GBP, with no refunds.
Dubai (UAE): Dhs. 38,764 is an estimate from €8,950; premium models reflect secondary market prices.
Hong Kong: HKD 105,000 reflects limited stock and high demand.
Singapore: SGD 18,000 is estimated for 2024, up from SGD 17,000 in 2023, with a 6% increase, with GST refunds available.
Mexico: MXN 250,000 (~ USD 12,500) is an estimated retail price based on high import duties and taxes, with limited official data for 2025.

Tips for Maximizing Value

To maximize value when purchasing a Hermès Birkin 25 in Togo leather:

Shop in Paris: Paris offers the lowest base price (€8,950) and VAT refunds for non-EU residents, potentially reducing the cost to €7,740 ($8,985 USD). Greece (25% VAT refund) and Italy (22% VAT refund) are also cost-effective European alternatives.
Time Purchases Strategically: Buy early in the year (January-March) before annual price increases, typically in February. Avoid peak tourist seasons (summer, holidays) for better appointment availability.
Build a Relationship with Hermès: Establish a purchase history with a sales associate to secure quota bags (Birkin or Kelly).
Monitor Exchange Rates: A weaker euro or pound can save hundreds for USD-based buyers. Use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.
Consider Secondary Markets: Trusted resellers like Sotheby’s, Madison Avenue Couture, or L’Écrin Singapore, as well as authentic pre-owned platforms like The Luxury Closet, offer immediate availability; however, prices are 2-2.4 times higher (e.g., $28,000-$30,000 for a Birkin 25).
Understand Purchase Restrictions: In Paris, buyers are limited to two bags per year (one Birkin or Kelly, one other bag)

By planning strategically, buyers can secure an iconic Hermès bag while optimizing their investment in this timeless luxury asset, which continues to appreciate in value.

2025 Hermès Price Increases: What You Need to Know

In early 2025, Hermès implemented a global price hike across multiple bag categories.

Europe: Most bags saw a 4–5% increase.
U.S.: Select styles went up by 6–7%, largely due to tariffs.
Asia: Japan and South Korea saw the steepest hikes, between 7% and 10%.

Why the hike?

Rising production costs
Currency fluctuations
Continued strong demand

Implication: Buying pre-hike inventory on the resale market is now smarter than ever.

Want a better deal post-price hike? Browse expertly authenticated Hermès bags at The Luxury Closet.

The Luxury Closet – Smart Shopping, Real Hermès

Not flying to Paris this weekend? No problem.

The Luxury Closet offers an expert-curated selection of authenticated Hermès handbags—from coveted Birkins and Kellys to Constances and Picotins—without the drama of boutique lotteries or waitlists.

Skipping flights and boutique lotteries doesn’t mean you give up on Hermès. The Luxury Closet (and similar resale platforms) offer authenticated, pre-owned Hermès bags—complete with pricing transparency and no VAT/import confusion.

Key Benefits:

Verified authenticity via expert inspection teams.
Real-world pricing: often 10–50% below retail, depending on bag condition and rarity.
Access to rare & sold‑out pieces—vintage, exotic leathers, discontinued colors.
Eco-conscious shopping: pre-loved = sustainable.

So Boutique or Resale?

Whether you’re hunting VAT refunds in Paris, chasing boutique exclusives, or browsing authenticated pre-loved platforms like The Luxury Closet, your goal is the same: pay less while buying smart.

Best bet: Paris boutique + VAT refund.
Second: Resale for peace of mind and variety.
Non-negotiable: Authentication, full documentation, awareness of import duties.

Because real luxury isn’t just about owning a Hermès bag—it’s about owning it with confidence and savvy.

Bonus Tip:

You can even filter by city of origin, year of manufacture, leather type, and hardware—so your dream Hermès isn’t just a fantasy, it’s a click away.

Sometimes the most powerful bag isn’t the one from the boutique, but the one that came with receipts—literal and ethical!

Citations

BragMyBag – “Hermès Bag Price Guide (2025).” https://www[dot]bragmybag.com/hermes-bag-prices/
PurseBop – “New Confirmed Hermès Prices in Europe 2025.” https://www[dot]pursebop.com/new-confirmed-hermes-prices-in-europe-2025/
PurseBop – “The Hermès Birkin Price Guide 2024.” https://www[dot]pursebop.com/the-hermes-birkin-price-guide-2024/
Sotheby’s – “Hermès Raises the Birkin Bag Price.” https://www[dot]sothebys.com/en/articles/hermes-raises-the-birkin-bag-price-what-you-need-to-know
CloverSac – “Hermès Birkin Worldwide Price List 2024.” https://www[dot]cloversac.com/hermes-birkin-worldwide-price-list-2024/
Love Luxury UK – “Hermès Birkin 25 Noir/Black Togo Gold Hardware.” https://loveluxury[dot]co.uk/shop/hermes-birkin-25-noir-black-togo-gold-hardware/
L’ecrin Boutique Singapore – “Hermès Birkin 25.” https://www[dot]lecrin.sg/hermes_birkin25.html
Brands Lover – “Hermès Birkin 25 in Chocolate Togo Leather and GHW.” https://brandsloversg[dot]com/products/hermes-birkin-25-in-brown
Provided pricing for specific configurations in Singapore (e.g., SGD 19,900).

Reddit – User Contributions on r/hermes. https://www[dot]reddit.com/r/hermes/
Anecdotal evidence from users (e.g., “Mini Evelyne after tax refund was €1,460 in Madrid vs $2,450 in NYC”) supporting VAT refund variations.

The Luxury Closet – “Authenticated Pre-Owned Hermès Handbags.” https://www[dot]theluxurycloset.com/
Exchange Rates Org – “Exchange Rate History 2025.” https://www[dot]exchange-rates.org/

UK Government – “VAT Refunds for Tourists Post-Brexit.” https://www[dot]gov.uk/
Reference for the January 2021 policy change ending VAT refunds for non-UK visitors.

Forbes Advisor – “Currency Converter and History.” https://www[dot]forbes.com/advisor/money-transfer/currency-converter/
Used for HKD to USD conversion trends (1 HKD = 0.127392 USD) and general currency insights.

July 28, 2025 0 comments

Women's Fashion

My Spring Make Up Bag

by Lina Clémence July 6, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

*post includes affiliate links

As the seasons change, much like my wardrobe, my breakfast routine (normally a gentle porridge to granola switcheroo) and my desire for wanting to go for a walk around the park during lunchtime opposed to tucking into an ITV quiz show; my make up bag also likes to have a happy quarterly refresh.

Admittedly, I am a woman who likes what she likes; a creature of habit when it comes to what I put on my face. My own personal shop front! But knowing the way the industry moves, adapts and the marvellous things it comes out with month after month; it’s nice to get a little creative every now and again (even if that means switching up a blush shade or diving in the deep end with a plumping lip gloss rather than hydrating balm- I know, who IS SHE)! But I thought I’d share a handful of my favourites that are coming out every morning around 8am; showing up and giving me a lift, some life and a whole lot of glow too.

(I’m trying to not do that thing that recipe books do when they give you a whole biography about a holiday to Italy with their grandmother when they were ten before they get to telling you about the carbonara you MUST MAKE, and instead just tell you about why these products are brilliant so I will try my very best!)

SKIN

NARS Light Reflecting Foundation: I’ll be honest here; every NARS foundation I’ve tried becomes a staple. Although I’ve been a Natural Radiant Longwear girlie for most of my life; the Light Reflecting foundation is also an incredibly hard worker at giving glow, great coverage and lasting all day.

By Terry Hyaluronic Serum Concealer: The one concealer I am happy to spend over thirty British pounds on because it is that good. Often I am reluctant to spend that on a takeaway, so I’m sure that must be saying something. It works in a way that a foundation does; a little goes a very long way and often if I’m using this my ol’ friend NARS is taking a day off. It’s the perfect cover-up and because of the hydrating qualities steers it away from being drying too.

Vieve Skin Nova Complexion Balm: The Vieve Skin Nova Complexion Balm is a new addition to my make up routine, and when all is well on my face this is the absolute perfect base. It’s thicker than I expected but in a very good way; it feels substantial upon application (I use a sponge) but blends to feel light and glowy in the way that Vieve products have the magic touch to do (honestly, if I can get that Jamie Genevieve glow than SIGN ME UP).

BLUSH

Pixi On-the-Glow Blush: This stick blush might be the longest serving item in my make up bag, but also the easiest to use, most failsafe and effective too. You cannot go wrong using this- it’s swipe and go and *always* adds the right amount of sheen and colour, always. It makes me feel like Lisa Eldridge when I use it because I can apply it with all my rings on very quickly and the pay off is always perfect; she’s a MUA guys!

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush: A little more for the delicate handed, a little goes a very long way with this- but when it goes OH she shines. This collection of contour, highlight and blush are serious bang for your buck and I do worry with the minimal amount you need I could have this well into the 22nd century. But! If it gives my a Hollywood healthy ‘rogue’ (as my dad would say) then it gets a big tick from me.

EYES & LIPS

Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm: The perfect antidote for colour and moisture; the ‘Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balms’ have an almost theatrically dramatic name (for the faint hearted, do not be put off by the use of Phantom here); but are the perfect throw-in-your-bag lippie for gentle colour, intense hydration and a very glossy pout (does anyone say ‘pout’ anymore in beauty writing? Did we leave it in the nineties??)

Pixi Lip Lift Max: I very much have my suspicions with plumping lip products; and trust me, I a not expecting a miracle when I use one. But Pixi do do plumping, great glossy lip products very well for a dewy, natural finish.

Blink Brow Bar Combo: I will admit it, I am very very late to the Blink Brow Bar party and I hang my head in shame because their products are, as everyone has said, really really good. I’ve been using a combination of their Ultimate Arch Definer for filling and Clear Brow Gloss for grooming and have already repurchased. Nothing makes filling in and shaping my brows quite so easy.

Victoria Beckham Vast Lash Mascara: I’m sure I’ve spoken about this mascara before, but she’s just SO. GOOD. Lengthening, flirty fluttery lashes that don’t smudge and look remarkably natural (this is not the mascara if you’re after a chunky sixties lash); but it is the perfect every day ‘are they really your natural lashes???’ mascara.

SCENT

Ffern: If you’re after a truly special seasonal scent, there really isn’t anyone else who creates magic and moments like Ffern. Everything about the way they story tell and create their fragrances feels like a time capsule for the current season and time we are living in. It’s the way I imagine perfume was meant to be created, and has something nostalgic and magical about it. Each of their four yearly scents are released at the equinox or solstice, and are created using natural, sustainably sourced high quality ingredients sympathetic and aligned with the seasons. This spring’s scent is a floral violet scent; with green notes of jonquil daffodil and a softness from ylang ylang. it’s got an encompassing warmness to it whilst also smelling fresh and light. magic.

Jo Malone Beach Blossom: There’s something about a Jo Malone summer fragrance which wraps you up in a sandy beach towel, kisses your skin with a coconutty warmth and hands you a sparkling mojito as you watch the sun start to settle on the horizon; and Beach Blossom is here to sweep you to faraway shores (even if the longest journey you have planned this spring is a slow train home from Victoria at 18:09). This scent is exactly what I love in summer; it’s transportive, feminine and makes me feel like I could be staying somewhere with Aimee Lou Wood and Walton Goggins (admittedly, with a bit less drama) (I haven’t caught up yet).

Miller Harris Rêverie de Bergamote: Perhaps I haven’t mentioned, but in summer, or spring, or actually winter or autumn in fact- I really favour smelling like a bowl of fresh zesty citrus fruit. The kind of smell that lingers after you’ve ripped open a tangerine, all juicy and sticky. That’s what I want to be the human version of! Admittedly, this feels a little bit sexier and grown up. It’s the kind of delicious scent I’d also say smells ‘clean’ too (which somehow always sounds a bit clinical, but is meant in a delicious fresh way) and is perfect for adding a little spritz of sunshine to the every day.

July 6, 2025 0 comments

Women's Fashion

Beach Bag Blueprint – Julia Berolzheimer

by Lina Clémence June 10, 2025

written by Lina Clémence