Hermès Handbags: A Guide to Sizes and Versions
As a luxury reseller, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the most iconic and highly coveted handbags in the world of luxury fashion. Among these, the Hermès Birkin, Kelly, and Constance handbags stand out as timeless classics, coveted by fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Each of these handbags is a true investment piece, with their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, and they continue to hold their value over time. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about the sizes and versions available for each of these stunning Hermès handbags.
So, whether you're an avid collector, a first-time reseller, or a seasoned Hermès reseller, this guide will serve as an essential resource to help you make informed decisions when it comes to buying and selling these highly coveted luxury items.
Hermès Birkin Bag
The Birkin bag is a masterpiece that has stood the test of time since its inception in 1984, named after the famous actress and singer Jane Birkin. The Hermès Birkin bag is one of the most coveted luxury handbags globally, famous for its superior craftsmanship, quality, and attention to detail.
The Birkin bag is an iconic piece that represents luxury and exclusivity. The demand for the Birkin bag has increased over the years, making it one of the most sought-after handbags in the world. The Birkin bag is a perfect representation of sophistication, elegance, and style, and owning one is a symbol of status and luxury.
Sizes
The Birkin bag comes in a variety of sizes, each of them adjusting to the wearer’s needs and they are suitable for different kinds of occasions. Next, we will detail each Birkin bag size and its measurements. It must be noted that the number of the size refers to the number of centimeters measured on the base of the handbag, this applies to all of the Hermès handbags.
The Birkin 25 measures 25 centimeters or 9.8 inches wide at its base, 20 centimeters or 7.8 inches high, and 13 centimeters or 5.1 inches deep. The Birkin 25 size is considered the smallest and it is usually worn in more exclusive and elegant occasions since its limited size doesn’t make it possible for several items to be stored inside.
The Birkin 30 measures 30 centimeters or 11.8 inches wide at its base, 22 centimeters or 8.6 inches high, and 16 centimeters or 6.2 inches deep. The size 30 is commonly used on casual occasions in which the wearer doesn’t need to take many items with them.
The Birkin 35 measures 35 centimeters wide at the base, 25 centimeters high, and 18 centimeters deep. The size 35 Birkin bag is considered the medium size, or the most widely used among luxury handbag lovers. This size has a larger storage space and makes it a perfect choice for everyday use or casual occasions that carry a need for more storage.
The Birkin 40 measures 40 centimeters or 15.7 inches wide at its base, 30 centimeters or 11.8 inches tall, and has a depth of 21 centimeters or 8.2 inches. The Birkin bag size 40 is the largest and is often used for travel or to store many more belongings. This Birkin size is not a suitable choice for everyday use, as it can be heavy if carried for long periods of time.
Versions: Sellier and Retourné
Hermès Birkin bags are available in two construction styles: the Sellier and the Retourné. The Sellier style pays homage to Hermès' origins as the premier saddler to French nobility. The external stitching utilized in this construction style yields precise, unblemished seams, resulting in a meticulously structured handbag that retains its shape for years, even decades. On the other hand, the Retourné style produces softer, curved lines at the seams with piping, giving the bag a more relaxed silhouette.
Historically, the Retourné was the only construction method used for the Birkin. However, in 2014, Hermès introduced the first Birkin Sellier, a Black 40cm with palladium hardware. The bag was crafted from the rigid leather Vache Hunter and had an unlined interior, making it a highly sought-after and limited edition bag. The Birkin Sellier had limited availability until 2019 when it was introduced to a wider audience.
Hermès Kelly Bag
The Kelly bag, also known as the Sac à dépêches, is a legendary handbag that has been coveted by fashionistas since its introduction in the 1930s. In 1956, the bag was rebranded as the Kelly bag in honor of Grace Kelly, who became a fan of the bag after she was photographed carrying it in the movie “To Catch a Thief.”
The Kelly bag is a symbol of luxury, elegance, and sophistication. It is crafted from the highest quality materials, with a keen eye for detail and a dedication to excellence. The bag features a trapezoidal shape with a single handle, which can be carried on the arm or by hand.
Sizes
The Kelly bag comes in a range of sizes, some of them more suitable for formal occasions, while others can be used on casual occasions and even for traveling. The Kelly bag has many variations in sizes and shape, next, we will feature each of them. It’s worth mentioning that the number of each Kelly size refers to the centimeters measured in its base.
The Kelly Wallet has an envelope structure featuring the iconic Kelly turning closure, this wallet is 15.5 centimeters or 6.1 inches wide, and 15.5 centimeters or 6.1 inches high. The Kelly Wallet is widely known and used by Hermès lovers worldwide.
The Kelly 15 or Micro Kelly is one of the smallest sizes of the Kelly bag, it is 15 centimeters or 5.9 inches wide, 11 centimeters or 4.3 inches high, and 5 centimeters or 1.9 inches deep. The micro Kelly is often used in formal events as a sign of exclusivity and luxury.
The Kelly Mini II is a different variation of the original Kelly bag. Introduced in 2000 the Kelly II features a double ring at the top handle, designed to attach the strap more comfortably than the original model. The Kelly II Mini has different dimensions than the original Kelly Mini (20 cm), for instance, it is 20 centimeters or 7.8 inches wide, 12 centimeters or 4.7 inches high, and 6 centimeters or 2.3 inches deep. The different dimensions provide an elongated silhouette to the Kelly Mini II.
The Kelly Mini or Kelly 20 is an exclusive handbag often used in formal events since its small and sophisticated size makes it the ideal complement. The Kelly Mini has the following measurements: it is 20 centimeters or 7.8 inches wide, 16 centimeters or 6.2 inches high, and 10 centimeters or 3.9 inches deep.
The Kelly To Go variation features a very similar appearance to the Kelly Wallet, the difference is that the Kelly To Go is wider than the wallet. This characteristic makes the Kelly To Go a fantastic option for formal events in which a more compact handbag is required. The Kelly To Go measurements are the following: it is 20.5 centimeters or 8 inches wide, and 13 centimeters or 5.11 inches high.
The Kelly Pochette is a Kelly bag variation that features a flatter handle than the original and a more compact structure with a wide base. This handbag is commonly used on formal occasions or corporate events. The Kelly Pochette measurements are as follows: it is 22 centimeters or 8.6 inches wide, 14 centimeters or 5.5 inches high, and 7 centimeters or 2.7 inches deep.
The Kelly Dance is another Kelly bag variation, it features the same trapezoidal shape and flap, but it doesn’t have a handle or a strap. The Kelly Dance can be used in formal events or semi-formal occasions. The Kelly Dance has the following measurements: it is 22 centimeters or 8.6 inches wide, 17 centimeters or 6.6 inches high, and 8 centimeters or 3.1 inches deep.
The Kelly Backpack is a variation of the original Kelly bag, it features an elongated structure, without a handle, and with two straps sewn to the back to work as a conventional backpack. The Kelly Backpack is a fantastic option for a casual outing with friends during spring or summer. The Kelly Backpack measurements are the following: it is 22.8 centimeters or 8.9 inches wide, 21 centimeters or 8 inches high, and 9 centimeters or 3 inches deep.
The Kelly A Dos is a variation of the Kelly Backpack, it was originally introduced in 1996, and it featured two different sizes, the Kelly A Dos GM with a handle and the regular Kelly A Dos without a handle, measuring 21 centimeters or 8.2 inches wide, 21 centimeters or 8.2 inches high, and 9 centimeters or 3.5 inches deep. Recently, in 2018 a new version, named Kelly a Dos II was introduced with a slight modification, featuring a new pocket to fit a smartphone.
The Kelly A Dos GM is a variation of the Kelly Backpack and is the biggest size for the Kelly A Dos, the main difference is that this version has a handle. It measures 27 centimeters or 10.6 inches wide, 28 centimeters or 11 inches high, and 12 centimeters or 4.7 inches deep.
The Kelly 25 is the most commonly used Hermès Kelly bag since it has the perfect size for casual events and daily use. The Kelly 25 has the following measures: it is 25 centimeters or 9.8 inches wide, 19 centimeters or 7.4 inches high, and 9 centimeters or 3.5 inches deep.
The So Kelly bag is a shoulder variation of the original Kelly handbag, it was introduced in 2007 for the Fall/Winter 2008 collection. This variation features an elongated structure with a long strap on top. The So Kelly bag has the following measurements: it is 26 centimeters or 10.2 inches wide, 35 centimeters or 13.7 inches high, and 13 centimeters or 5.1 inches deep.
The Kelly Lakis is another variation of the Kelly bag, it is fairly similar to the original, but features a slouchier structure and a couple of zippered pockets in the front. The Kelly Lakis measurements are as follows: it is 28 centimeters or 11 inches wide, 20 centimeters or 7 inches high, and 11 centimeters or 4 inches deep.
The Kelly 28 is one of the classic sizes for casual use of the Kelly bag since it is much more spacious. The Kelly 28 is the second preferred size when it comes to the Kelly and it has the following measurements: it is 28 centimeters or 11 inches wide, 22 centimeters or 8.6 inches high, and 10 centimeters or 3.9 inches deep.
Commonly used as a formal handbag to make a fashion statement, the Kelly Cut is a shorter and wider variation of the Kelly Pochette, since it has the same flat handle at the top. The measurements of the Kelly Cut are as follows: it is 31 centimeters or 12.2 inches wide, 13 centimeters or 5.1 inches high, and 2.5 centimeters or 0.9 inches deep.
The Kelly 32 is another of the common sizes in which the Kelly is found, even though it doesn’t vary much from the Kelly 28, it provides a little bit more storage space and it is a good option for a casual outing or a day out, especially when it requires many belongings. The Kelly 32 measurements are as follows: it is 32 centimeters or 12.5 inches wide, 23 centimeters or 9 inches high, and 10.5 centimeters and 4.1 inches deep.
The Kelly 35 is made for heavier use, for women that need extra storage space and a way to comfortably carry their belongings. The Kelly 35 is 35 centimeters or 13.7 inches wide, 25 centimeters or 9.8 inches high, and 12 centimeters or 4.7 inches deep.
The Kelly Depeche is a variation of the original Kelly bag; it features a flatter structure similar to an envelope, but its size can be compared to that of a briefcase, and that is exactly the main use that men and women give to this handbag. The Kelly Depeche measurements are the following: it is 38 centimeters or 14.9 inches wide, 30 centimeters or 11.8 inches high, and 11 centimeters or 4.3 inches deep.
The Kelly 40 is currently the biggest size for the Kelly handbag, it is a spacious bag, used mainly to travel or store many belongings. The Kelly 40 measurements are as follows: it is 40 centimeters or 15.7 inches wide, 28 centimeters or 11 inches high, and 16 centimeters or 6.2 inches deep.
Versions: Sellier and Retourné
Like the Birkin bag, the Kelly also has two versions or construction styles: the Sellier and the Retourné. The Kelly Sellier has seams with exposed top-stitching and a geometric trapezoidal silhouette that imparts a sharp and structured appearance. It is made with harder, more rigid leathers such as Epsom or Box Calf Leather.
On the other hand, the Kelly Retourné has smoother outside seams that are covered by leather piping, giving it a supple and relaxed look. It is made with softer leathers such as Togo and Clemence. While the Kelly Retourne holds more than a Kelly Sellier of the same size, it should not be overstuffed or it will sag and stretch out of shape. In recent years, the Kelly Retourné has been gaining popularity and is often preferred over the Birkin Retourné due to its shoulder strap.
Hermès Constance Bag
Since its introduction in 1959, the Hermès Constance bag has been quietly carving out its place among the iconic handbags in the luxury market. Although it may not have the same level of instant recognition as the Birkin and Kelly bags, the Constance has earned a devoted following of fashionistas who appreciate its understated elegance and versatility.
The Constance bag features a distinctive H-shaped clasp, which is often the first detail to catch the eye of those who encounter it for the first time. This clasp is a work of art in its own right, crafted with meticulous attention to detail to ensure a perfect fit and smooth finish. The bag’s structure is clean and streamlined, with a long shoulder strap that allows it to be worn crossbody or over the shoulder.
Sizes
The Constance bag comes in different sizes, each of them is suitable for various occasions, and they can be worn in almost any context. Next, we will show you the available sizes for the Constance bag. It should be noted that just like the Birkin and Kelly bags, the Constance size corresponds to the number of centimeters measured at the base of the bag.
The Micro Constance is the smallest size of this Hermès bag, measuring only 14 centimeters or 5.5 inches wide, 11 centimeters or 4.3 inches high, and 3 centimeters or 1.1 inches deep, this beautiful Constance option is perfect for an exclusive formal event where elegance is the main theme.
The Mini Constance is the most popular size of them all since it has the perfect shape and storage for a small bag like the Constance. This size measures 18 centimeters or 7 inches wide, 15 centimeters or 5.9 inches high, and 4 centimeters or 1.5 inches deep.
The second most commonly used Constance, this size provides a bit more storage space and a bolder look. It is preferred as a casual or day-to-day handbag. The Constance 24 measurements are the following: it is 24 centimeters or 9.4 inches wide, 15 centimeters or 5.9 inches high, and 5 centimeters or 1.9 inches deep.
The Constance Elan size is the biggest Constance size available, this variation is slightly wider and shorter than the original and it is much more spacious for storing purposes. The Constance Elan measurements are the following: it is 25 centimeters or 9.8 inches wide, 14 centimeters or 5.5 inches high, and 8 centimeters or 3.1 inches deep.
So, what do you think of the Hermès Birkin, Kelly, and Constance bags sizes?
Knowing the sizes and versions of the Hermès Birkin, Kelly, and Constance bags is essential for Hermès resellers. Each handbag has its unique characteristics, and understanding them will help you better serve your customers. Whether your clients are looking for a classic and timeless Birkin, an iconic and sophisticated Kelly, or a versatile and practical Constance, there is a Hermès handbag that is perfect for them.
If you want to keep learning everything you need about Hermès handbags, browse our blog and improve your knowledge about the French brand.
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