Los Angeles, CA — In the rarefied world of luxury fashion, a remarkable collection has emerged that stands as a testament to one woman’s extraordinary eye for design and prescient understanding of trends. For decades, this discerning collector meticulously curated an assemblage of the most coveted pieces from renowned fashion houses, each item carefully selected for its timeless appeal and cultural significance. What sets this collection apart is not just its breadth and quality, but its pristine condition—virtually every piece remains unworn and untouched, preserved in its original packaging. From Hermès Birkins to Chanel tweed jackets, each item in this vast array comes complete with its original receipt and box, dating back to the golden era of 1990s fashion. This remarkable preservation of luxury goods offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of high-end fashion, frozen in time yet eternally chic. As this collection now comes to auction, it presents an unparalleled opportunity for connoisseurs and investors alike to acquire pieces of fashion history in their most immaculate form.
In the glittering realm of high fashion, second-hand luxury handbags are emerging as not just stylish accessories but savvy investments. The recent Holiday Luxury Sale at John Moran Auctioneers highlighted this growing trend, showcasing the excitement and potential of buying and selling luxury handbags at auction.
Investing in pre-owned luxury handbags combines style, sustainability, and financial savvy. Many of these coveted items retain or even increase in value over time, making them an attractive option for both fashion enthusiasts and investors. As noted in a recent study,
Sally Andrew, Silver, Western & American Indian Cataloguer
“Hermès Birkin handbags have increased in value by 500% since 1981, at an average annual increase of 14.2%” (Chubb).
Hermès once again proved its enduring appeal, with a stunning collection that generated a total of $125,075 in sales. The star of the show was undoubtedly the Navy Blue Ostrich Birkin 30 Bag, which commanded an impressive $31,750, including the buyer’s premium. This piece exemplifies the brand’s commitment to exquisite craftsmanship and rare materials. These results underscore the continued demand for Hermès’ classic designs, with an average sale price of $17,653 per item. The brand’s ability to maintain value across vintage and contemporary pieces speaks volumes about its timeless appeal.
Chanel’s offerings were equally impressive, with total sales reaching $160,550. The auction showcased the enduring influence of the late Karl Lagerfeld, with pieces from his era drawing significant attention. With an average sale price of $6,778.40, Chanel’s performance at the auction demonstrates the brand’s ability to captivate collectors with both its iconic handbags and ready-to-wear pieces.
““Hermès Birkin handbags have increased in value by 500% since 1981, at an average annual increase of 14.2%” (Chubb). ”
The sale’s success reinforced the growing market for second-hand luxury items, with not just Hermès and Chanel, but also Prada and Fendi attracting strong bids. This trend is not only about luxury—it’s a shift toward sustainability, with buyers giving these beautifully crafted items a second life while investing in pieces that will continue to hold value.
The results of the 2024 Holiday Luxury Sale at John Moran Auctioneers showed that second-hand luxury handbags have become a lucrative, eco-friendly investment. Whether seeking iconic Hermès Birkins, classic Chanel flap bags, or timeless vintage pieces, the auction demonstrated that in the world of luxury handbags, yesterday’s fashion can become tomorrow’s fortune. So why not consider bidding on a piece of fashion history? Your closet – and your investment portfolio – might thank you. The next opportunity to acquire luxury items from us will be at the Jewelry, Handbags, and Luxury Accessories Online Sale, February 11, 2025.
“From a cataloguer’s perspective, and as someone who has worked with historic textiles and vintage fashion for nearly three decades, our recent sale was a revelation and delight: a real treasure-trove of exquisite handbags with delicate leather finishes and gold-plated hardware, and clothing with high quality fabrics and fine leathers, amazing designs with intricate pattern cuts and seam details, sleeve types, and all types of trim and flourishes, as well as full silk linings!
Much of the clothing and especially the handbags, were presented in superb condition and provided fine examples of late 1990s-early 2000s fashion, carefully chosen and well kept, professionally cleaned and maintained; often new and unworn or barely worn. Potential consignors take note: condition is key! Buying these collectable pieces at auction, with previews, offers fashion devotees the chance to acquire an unusual or coveted vintage style, created from high quality fabric, and in now-retired colors, even possible examples of early work by designers such as Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel and Martin Margiela for Hermès.”
