Shoppers are Tired of Sky-High Luxury Prices | How Luxury Price Fatigue is Changing the Resale Market

For years, luxury houses have increased their prices—sometimes more than once a year. A Chanel classic flap that cost $5,000 not too long ago might now sits around $10,000. But in 2025, that cycle is slowing. Brands like Louis Vuitton and Hermès are easing back on aggressive increases, raising prices by a few percentage points instead of 8–10%. Other brands like Burberry and Saint Laurent have even decreased prices after their pricing strategy didn't resonate with customers. For luxury shoppers, this shift—known as “price fatigue”—is already shaping how and where people buy.

What Price Fatigue Means for Shoppers

When buyers feel pushed past their limit, they start looking for alternatives. That’s why the resale market is currently booming: more shoppers are willing to pick up a gently loved bag or accessory at a more reasonable price, instead of paying sky-high retail boutique prices. Platforms like The RealReal, Rebag, and yes, curated shops like The Luxe Loop, are seeing demand for pieces that offer both value and story.

Which Categories Are Most Affected

Handbags

Classics like the Hermès Birkin or the Louis Vuitton Speedy continue to hold value. But new bag launches with high retail prices can struggle unless they feel truly special, like the Chanel 22. The Chanel 22 has done surprisingly well in terms of retaining its resale value, because there aren't many bags similar to it in the greater handbag universe. Shoppers are becoming more selective—buying fewer, better bags, rather than chasing every new drop.

Shoes

Sneakers and trend-driven shoes still move quickly, but these trendier styles can at times lose resale heat fast. Timeless styles—think loafers, boots, or pumps in quality leather—are proving to be safer investments that will keep their value in the long run.

Accessories

Smaller items like belts, wallets, or bag charms remain luxury entry points for younger and aspirational customers, but buyers are expecting more craftsmanship for their money. Pieces with heritage branding or unique design elements are outperforming generic run-of-the-mill options.

How to Shop Smarter in Today’s Market

• Look for heritage over hype: Classic designs linked to brand history tend to outlast trend-driven pieces.

• Don’t overlook condition: A bag with original packaging and minimal wear holds exponentially more resale value than its more worn counterparts.

• Time your purchases: When brands revive archival pieces (like the sequined Fendi Baguette or the Chloé Paddington anniversary reissue), older originals can suddenly spike in demand.

Conclusion: Value is About More Than Price

Luxury shopping today is less about chasing the newest thing regardless of cost, and more about buying with intention. Price fatigue is reshaping the way people invest in fashion—pushing shoppers toward pieces that feel timeless, well-made, and meaningful. For anyone considering a purchase, it’s a reminder: the smartest luxury buys are the ones you’ll love for years, and that hold value whether in your closet or on the resale market.