If you’ve ever dreamt of walking out of a Hermès boutique with a shiny orange box holding a coveted Birkin or Kelly, you’ve probably run into a little roadblock known as the prespend. It’s a term whispered on fashion forums, dissected on TikTok, and debated endlessly among luxury lovers. But what is prespend, really? And what are quota bags? Most importantly: how do you actually get one?
Welcome to the world of Hermès, where luxury isn’t just about having money—it’s about understanding a secret language of exclusivity, strategy, and a whole lot of patience. In this detailed guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know in 2025, from how prespend works to real tips on scoring your dream quota bag.
So, What Exactly Is a Quota Bag?
In Hermès speak, a “quota bag” refers to two iconic handbags: the Birkin and the Kelly. These are the bags Hermès considers part of its ultra-exclusive category—highly sought-after, limited in supply, and carefully controlled in terms of distribution. The Constance bag is also sometimes treated as a quota bag in certain boutiques, though policies can vary globally.
Quota bags are so exclusive that most Hermès boutiques only allow each client to purchase two per year—one in the first half, one in the second. And yes, that quota is tracked in your client profile.
What Is Prespend (and Why Does It Matter)?
Prespend is the not-so-secret requirement that you need to spend a significant amount on non-quota items at Hermès before being offered a quota bag. This includes:
- Ready-to-wear
- Shoes
- Jewelry
- Belts
- Fragrance
- Scarves
- Homeware
But here’s the twist: there’s no publicly stated threshold for prespend. That’s right—it’s not an official rule you’ll find on the Hermès website or hear directly from your Sales Associate (SA). But everyone in the know understands it’s part of the game.
In 2025, the general consensus is this: to be seriously considered for a Birkin or Kelly, you’ll likely need to spend between 1x to 2x the bag’s retail value on other categories. So if a Kelly 25 retails for around $11,000, your prespend may need to reach $11,000–$22,000—though some buyers have gotten lucky with less.
Prespend isn’t a scam or trick—it’s part of Hermès’ brand strategy. The house doesn’t just sell bags; they curate a luxury lifestyle. Buying across multiple departments shows you’re here for the brand, not just the resale value.
How to Build a Solid Hermès Purchase History
Think of Hermès like a private club. To get into the VIP room (aka, be offered a quota bag), you need to show loyalty. That means consistently shopping across categories—not just popping in for a pair of Oran sandals and calling it a day.
If you’re just starting out, here’s how fashion insiders build their profiles:
- Shop regularly with the same Sales Associate (more on this below).
- Choose classic but high-ticket items: a cashmere shawl, H belt, or pair of Chypre sandals.
- Be intentional: opt for pieces you genuinely like, not just to “tick the box.”
It’s about balance. You don’t need to buy up the entire store overnight. Slow and steady—but consistent—wins the race.
Tips for Getting a Quota Bag in 2025
Alright, here’s where we get into the strategy. If you’re serious about scoring a Birkin or Kelly, here’s what actually works in today’s landscape.
1. Build a Relationship with a Sales Associate (SA)
This is arguably the single most important factor. Your SA is your gatekeeper. They control when, how, and if you’re offered a quota bag. Be kind, consistent, and show genuine interest in the brand. If you’re bouncing between stores, they may not see you as a serious client.
2. Stick to One Boutique
Shopping at one location helps centralise your purchase history. Hermès does track purchases globally, but your primary boutique and SA have the most influence over bag offers.
3. Don’t Ask for a Birkin on Day One
You wouldn’t ask to test-drive a Ferrari after just walking into the dealership for the first time. Show interest in the brand first—get to know their leathers, seasonal collections, and craftsmanship.
4. Embrace Non-Quota Items
Ready-to-wear, jewelry, and shoes are your secret weapons. SAs appreciate clients who explore the full Hermès universe, not just the “it” bags. And some categories, like fine jewelry and clothing, carry more “prespend weight.”
5. Travel to Flagship Locations
Planning a trip to Paris? Apply for a leather goods appointment at the Faubourg Saint-Honoré store. It’s competitive, but travelers occasionally score quota bags here—though success rates are much lower than they used to be. Tokyo, Singapore, and New York also have high-volume stores worth visiting if you’re building a profile.
6. Timing Matters
Bags often arrive in-store around seasonal deliveries. This is typically during Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter fashion calendar cycles. If your SA reaches out during these drops, reply fast. That window can be short.
Is There Any Way to Skip the Prespend?
Technically, no—but people do get lucky. A small handful of first-time clients have reported being offered a quota bag with little or no prespend, but that’s becoming increasingly rare. These are often exceptions, not rules—usually due to ideal timing, a quiet boutique, or a particularly generous SA.
If prespend and the wait aren’t for you, you can always go the resale route. Sites like Fashionphile, Rebag, and Collector Square offer authenticated Birkins and Kellys—at a premium, of course. But for many, that convenience and certainty is worth the markup.
Final Thoughts: Is the Prespend Worth It?
If you’re hoping to get a Birkin or Kelly at retail price, then yes—the prespend is worth navigating. But here’s the trick: don’t treat it like a transaction. Hermès is less of a store and more of a luxury experience.
Clients who enjoy the brand for what it is (a heritage house that values artistry, craftsmanship, and subtle luxury) tend to fare best. The prespend becomes less of a “requirement” and more of an organic part of the journey.
So whether you’re dreaming of a classic black Birkin with gold hardware or a Mini Kelly in the colour of the season, remember: patience, strategy, and a little charm go a long way in the world of Hermès.
