The TRUTH about Michael Kors – you have a right to know!

I cannot continue to go on in silence. The public needs to be made aware of the shortcomings of a popular name brand company who is becoming a powerhouse. That company is Michael Kors and they are not to be trusted. I have detailed my experiences and the issues I have dealt with over a couple of years. May my experiences warn others.

Gia Tote (Collection Bag) – $999.00
I purchased this bag in May of 2013 from the Tysons Galleria store. I had just graduated from college and wanted to reward myself and to celebrate my entrance to the real world. I purchased the Gia Tote in black and was a very pleased first-time customer. Afterward, I became completely enchanted with Michael Kors style and purchased several additional accessories. I told all of my friends how awesome Michael Kors was.

In the summer of 2014, I noticed the large tote’s thin straps had begun to fray on the sides. Knowing there was a 2 year warranty for Collection Bags, I took the bag back to a Michael Kors store. The sales clerk rudely asked whether I carried a lot of items in the bag. The answer is yes, it’s a tote – not a clutch. They took my bag back and sent it in to be repaired.

I returned 3 weeks later and found that the fraying sides were simply glued back together. When I complained about the shoddy repair, the sales associate had no help, advice, or sympathy to give me. Since I had been without a purse for 3 weeks, I did not send it in again.

After 2 months of continuing to use the bag, but carrying fewer items – per the comment of the sales associate – I noticed the sides of the straps were fraying in the same places. I retired the bag to my closet and bought a new MK bag.

Before the 2 year warranty expired, I took the bag to the Montgomery Mall store to have it repaired. I asked that the actual straps be replaced and was told that the black strap with white stitching may not be available and that I could only get a black strap with black stitching.

I picked up my bag 7 weeks later and discovered that the straps were new, but that they had neglected to switch out the tag with white stitching that hangs from the strap. It looks horrible. The black straps detract from the aesthetic of the bag and the mismatched thread looks ridiculous. I was shocked when I picked it up and the sales associate curtly asked whether I had asked for the strap that holds the tag to be replaced as well. I don’t have to tell the dentist how to fix my teeth or an artist how to paint a portrait. So I would not have thought that I would have to give specific instructions on how to repair a high end bag. I am so upset with my bag that I A) cannot use much anymore because of its poor construction and that is B) ugly because of sloppy repairs. I ask, MICHAEL KORS, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO FOR ME?

Hamilton East West (MK Bag) – $298.00
I bought this bag at the Williamsburg outlet store to fill the void when the Gia Tote was no longer fit for day-to-day use. Several months ago, I noticed that the cord in the handle has separated into two parts – instead of one piece where it attaches to the bag on both handles. Today, I noticed that the adhesive is failing. I ask, MICHAEL KORS, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO FOR ME?

Michael Kors Eau De Parfum 1.7oz – $90.00
I received this as a Christmas present and was thrilled as I love the smell. The problem you may ask? One month after using it, I noticed an oily residue on my fingers when I applied the perfume. Beginning one month later, I noticed an oily residue leaking from the applicator and running down the side which has left a stain on the dresser I have had to relegate the perfume to only occasional use as it is slimy and leaks every time I use it. I ask, MICHAEL KORS, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO FOR ME?

Silver-Tone Beaded Bracelet – $68.50
This was also a Christmas present. Such a beautiful bracelet! Two months later, the leather draw strap began to separate. I kept wearing it, making sure I was gentle. I even put the clasp over the fragile area to protect it. Shortly thereafter, I decided to have it replaced, but the bracelet in that style was no longer available. I ask, MICHAEL KORS, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO FOR ME?

The problem is a lack of quality and customer service. The company has not stood behind its products to replace and correct the flaws that have resulted due to normal usage. They are selling purses deemed to be greater than or equal in value to their competitors such as Coach, Dooney & Bourke, Kate Spade, etc. except their quality is nowhere near it. Be forewarned. You may fall in love with their sense of style but the quality is not there to match the price.