While the past year has impacted all of us in various ways, luxury bag sales have consistently grown – with little stagnation and record breaking sales continuing to take place. In fact, since many were not able to travel and shop how they typically would, auction sites like Christie’s continued to see tons of interest. And with an eclectic and rare mix of bags and accessories that Christie’s is able to curate, it’s not surprising that the excitement over these, many times, one-of-a-kind treasures has the handbag world watching.
Christie’s New York’s latest auction launches today, this one featuring another remarkable selection of Handbags & Accessories in celebration of Summer. With over 200 pieces from the world’s top luxury fashion houses, there is something for everyone. While many of us assume there are only the ultra-rare (which there are), Christie’s also offers ideal bags that can start a collection or quickly become the cornerstone of your growing collection.
Let’s talk a bit about the standout pieces of this lot, starting with a Himalaya Birkin 35. This bag continues to be the pinnacle for handbag lovers, and consistently breaks records at auction. The 35 cm makes this bag fall into the daily carry category, and I’ve actually seen people carrying this bag a handful of times (I will never not get excited over a sighting like this). There are also two Faubourg Birkin bags, both with exotic skin details, which are standouts as well and are expected to fetch anywhere between $80,000 – $100,000. If you want something bright and happy, the Rainbow Sunrise Sellier Birkin 35 might be one of my favorite bags of the lot.
There are far more pieces, including the much-talked-about Light Up LED Keepall Bandoulière by Louis Vuitton. I’m also quite partial to this Metallic Kelly Pochette (the shape has always been a personal favorite and metallic leather for Hermès is incredibly rare). This Matte Very D’Eau Alligator Constance 24 with Palladium hardware may very well haunt me in my dreams. There’s also this Limited Edition Turquoise Swift Leather & Osier Picnic Kelly 35 that would surely become the star of your summer wardrobe.
The list goes on (it’s nearly 200 items strong) and Christie’s continues to offer one of the most well-rounded auctions available to ensure there is something for everyone. Whether you are starting your collection and want to opt for the more classic and subtle, or an extremely rare piece is what delights you, you will not be disappointed with the Christie’s Summer Bag and Accessories Auction. The auction starts today and lasts through the 9th of June at 10 AM EDT. If you are in NYC, you are welcome to set up a reservation to preview the exhibition (which is a delight, I’ve done this before) at Christie’s Rockefeller Center Galleries from June 4-9.
Discover more of my favorite items below or check out the entire auction now!
They always have a great assortment! That rainbow Birkin, swoon!
What do you think that Himalaya will sell for? They always break records
Why don’t people just buy the Himalaya Birkin in store/have it custom made? If you can afford to spend $200k (+30-40% buyers premium & VAT taxes) on a handbag, you can afford to get it from the store and buy one there which is priced exceedingly less. I just dont get it.
People buy on Christie’s, and other sites, because they can’t walk into an Hermes boutique order and buy what they want. I’ve been an Hermes shopper for over 10 years, buying Birkin’s, etc. and the process is more complicated due to Hermes’ rigid and arbitrary policies. Exclusivity, rarity, etc. is what drives up the price creating a strong after sales (secondary) market. The demand for Birkin’s far exceeds the supply and prices remain exorbitant.
It’s hard to tell, but they have been seeing record breaking numbers at many of their auctions!
FP has this one listed on their website: HERMES Matte Niloticus Crocodile Himalaya Birkin 30 Blanc $225,000.
Honestly I’m debating if I should buy another saint laurent bag. After having 13 some designer bags. I’m totally over it. I can’t justify the price anymore.You can only carry one bag at a time and it’s really not that exciting . I thought one day I’ll add birkin but I think I’ll rather not. I might just donate to causes or country like India where poor is really poor. First time in my life I saw someone who actually didn’t have a shoe and that really shook me . I grew up in a place where being poor is having not such a good car. Seeing poor people on tv is one thing but actually witnessing a level of poverty is one thing . Really puts things in perspective. I feel ashamed of my designer bags now
Why would you?
I lived in India and did a lot of fundraising and charity works, btw, i’m a social-worker and a family counselor by profession.
India is a huge country with caste system, religious differences, a wide gap between rich and poor.
Visit India to understand more than justifying your belief.
It didn’t stop all the mega rich Indians from luxury goods.
Read about them, their charities and love for the above.
And it will not stop me either from my LV, Chanel and Hermes.
Peace.
Has anyone ever purchased a bag from Christie’s? With the buyer’s 25% premium, tax, shipping, liability it adds up to a pretty hefty price. When I see Birkin’s on reseller sites the prices are more than double retail. I don’t know if it could be cheaper to buy a pristine Birkin at Christie’s if the sale price (exclusive of everything) is for ex. $15K?
Honestly, I am more intrigued with the Vlad’s photography than any of the Hermes bags. How does he do!?
For me, handbags are a passion and hobby and I can’t see me stopping unless I’m physically or financially unable to continue. I’ve loved handbags since I was 2 years old. My mother bribed me to clean by promising to let me look at the handbags when we go shopping! And I was 6. It’s my passion and hobby and I look forward to seeing all the new seasons come out. If someone wants to stop buying designer bags and give it to charity-That is great! Everyone has the right to spend their money how they choose.