A Guide to Hermès Handbags
When it comes to quality handbags, very few can compare to Hermès. These luxury bags are the perfect investment for a functional and stylish wardrobe accent or a collector’s item that will only increase in value. Below are some of the most coveted styles and why you’ll want to add them to your collection.
The Benefits of Investing in Hermès Handbags
Hermès handbags are beloved for their sturdy, hand-crafted construction, quality materials and utterly unforgettable style. Hermès bags are among the most sophisticated and timeless in the world and include such famous models as the Birkin bag, the Kelly bag, the Constance bag and the Evelyne bag.
Hermès bags of all kinds are an incredible investment. Not only are they perfectly suited for everyday use, but they also retain their value long-term. In fact, some coveted styles can actually increase in value over time as they become more difficult to find. A sought-after Birkin, for example, has been sold for upwards of $450k.
But the monetary value isn’t the only reason to invest in Hermès. Every Hermès bag is of the highest quality. Designers use luxury materials and colors to craft a one-of-a-kind handbag that stands as a symbol of wealth, stature and prestige. Hermès bags are hand-stitched over many hours—the Birkin, for example, takes 18 hours of meticulous crafting per bag.
The real secret of Hermès, though, is that these bags are some of the most beautiful in the world. Each bag is unmatched in style and elegance. Investing in an Hermès handbag means investing in a quality piece that can elevate any outfit and can last for many years.
The Most Popular Hermès Handbags
Hermès is known for its wide selection of quality handbags, but some styles stand out above the rest. The most popular styles include the Birkin, the Kelly, the Constance and the Evelyne, but don’t let that steer you away from other styles. Any Hermès bag is an investment in style and quality.
The Birkin Bag
The Birkin bag is one of the most famous and sought-after Hermès handbags. This coveted piece has long been only accessible by a lengthy waitlist. Hermès stores are only allowed to carry a certain number of Birkins per year, and they never know which colors or sizes they’ll receive, so getting just the one you want can be an endeavor. However, many resellers offer this bag in pristine condition to those who know where to look. The Birkin can be a hefty investment, but it’s well worth it for such an icon of style and sophistication.
The Birkin comes in four sizes—25, 30, 35 and 40—and a variety of colors, both custom and standard. The most popular color is the Hermès Gold.
Where You’ve Seen It: If you’re among those who rewatch the beloved mother-daughter drama Gilmore Girls every fall, you may recognize the Hermès Birkin bag as the bag Rory receives from her late-show beau, Logan Huntzberger. Other famous faces who carry Birkins include Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga and the Kardashian sisters.
The Kelly Bag
The Hermès Kelly bag is the oldest and most classic of the Hermès handbag designs. The Kelly bag comes in two varieties, the Kelly Sellier and the Kelly Retourne, which can be identified by their stitching—the former has visible stitching, while the latter bears hidden stitching and softer edges.
Though the Kelly comes in many of the classic Hermès colors and leathers, unique versions have been made in crocodile, wicker and sterling silver. Kelly bags come in plenty of sizes, ranging from the petite Kelly 15 to the cavernous Kelly 50.
Where You’ve Seen It: The Kelly bag is named for former actress Grace Kelly, the Princess of Monaco, who used it to hide her baby bump from the press. The bag was originally known as the Sac-à-Dépêches, but was renamed in her honor after it became associated with the princess.
The Constance Bag
The Hermès Constance bag is the peak of comfort, fashion, and function. Named after the designer’s daughter, Constance bags are incredibly versatile due to their strap, which can be worn comfortably over the shoulder or at the waist. The most iconic feature of the Constance is its “H” clasp, which integrates the Hermès brand in a stylish and functional way.
The Constance bag comes in smaller sizes, such as the mini and micro, which feature one interior pocket, and larger sizes, such as the standard Constance 24 or the more rectangular Elan variation. These sizes can come with either one or two pockets, depending on the shopper’s preference.
Though they’re not as famous, Constance bags are so beloved they can actually be harder to find than Birkin or Kelly handbags.
Where You’ve Seen It: Celebs spotted with their Hermès Constance bags include Ashley Olson, Rachel Bilson, and Nicky Hilton.
The Evelyne Bag
Modeled after equestrian bags used for carrying horse grooming materials, the Hermès Evelyne bag has grown into a style icon all its own. The style features the Hermès “H” perforated into the side of the bag, replicating the ventilation in equestrian bags that allowed grooming gear to dry.
Evelyne bags have been produced in four styles, though only two are currently in production. The Generation I and Generation II Evelyne bags are discontinued, while the Generation III and Sellier models can still be found in stores.
As one of the most functional Hermès bags, it’s a popular choice for those with a sportier style. It comes in four sizes, ranging from 16 to 40.
Where You’ve Seen It: Investing in an Evelyne bag means you’ll be joining the ranks of famous Hermès fans Alanis Morisette, Bethenny Frankel, Kate Moss and Victoria Beckham, all of whom have been spotted with Evelyne bags of their own.
Other Popular Styles
Though they may not be as famous as those above, many Hermès bags are widely known for their style, comfort, and quality. Popular models include:
The Hermès Lindy bag: a softer, more casual bag with a natural droop
The Hermès Garden Party bag: a luxury tote perfect for travel or daily use
The Hermès Bolide bag: the carry-on of your dreams
The Hermès Picotin Bag: a larger equestrian-style bag similar to the Evelyne
Make the Hermès Investment with The RealReal
Investing in an Hermès handbag is a commitment, but their impeccable style and incredible value make them more than worth it. If you’re ready to find the Hermès bag of your dreams, start looking at The RealReal. We have the highest quality pre-owned luxury goods, carefully authenticated by our experts to ensure you’re getting the real deal. Check out our collection of Hermès handbags.
