Hermès stands as one of the pinnacle luxury fashion houses, renowned for its exquisite collection of ready-to-wear clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories. Among its most coveted items are the Hermès Kelly bag and the iconic Birkin bag—two pieces that every handbag enthusiast should be familiar with.
At first glance, the Kelly and Birkin bags may appear similar, but a closer examination reveals distinct features that can help you decide which one deserves a spot in your collection. This article will delve into the rich histories of both bags, explore their differences, and highlight some current offerings from Hermès.
The Hermès Kelly Bag: A Historical Perspective
Originally introduced as the Sac à dépêches in 1935, the Hermès Kelly bag was designed by Robert Dumas, who sought to create a spacious travel bag inspired by the Bugatti handbag, the first women’s handbag crafted by Hermès. The Sac à dépêches quickly gained popularity due to its generous size, making it a standout option in a market filled with smaller luxury bags.
However, the bag truly captured public attention in 1954, thanks to a serendipitous moment in cinema. Alfred Hitchcock allowed costume designer Edith Head to purchase a Sac à dépêches for actress Grace Kelly to use in the film To Catch a Thief. Kelly fell in love with the bag, and after becoming the Princess of Monaco in 1956, she famously used it to conceal her baby bump from paparazzi, leading to iconic photographs featured in Life magazine. The bag, affectionately referred to as the Kelly bag, was officially renamed in 1977.
The Hermès Birkin Bag: Its Unique Origin
In contrast, the Birkin bag emerged in 1983, following a chance encounter between Hermès chief executive Jean-Louis Dumas and British actress Jane Birkin on a flight. After Birkin’s straw bag spilled its contents, she lamented the difficulty of finding a suitable leather weekend bag. Dumas, inspired by this interaction, designed a bag based on the Haut à Courroies, first introduced by Hermès in 1900.
The inaugural Birkin bag was gifted to Jane Birkin in 1984, perfectly reflecting her style with its clean lines and secure front lock. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that the Birkin truly established itself as a fashion staple, continuing to captivate handbag lovers around the world.
Key Differences Between the Kelly and Birkin Bags
While the Kelly and Birkin bags share a similar trapezoidal silhouette and sophisticated top handle, several key differences set them apart:
- Design Elements:
The most notable distinction lies in their handles: the Birkin features two top handles, while the Kelly has a single top handle. Additionally, the Kelly’s belt closure secures a simple flap, whereas the Birkin’s belt weaves through loops, allowing for a more casual, tote-like appearance. The Kelly is designed for an elegant, closed look, while the Birkin is intended to be worn open and accessible. - Size Variations:
The Kelly bag offers a broader range of sizes, from 15 to 50, with the 20, 25, and 28 being particularly popular. In contrast, the Birkin is available in 25, 30, 35, and 40, with the 25 and 30 sizes being favored for everyday use. - Styles and Construction:
The Kelly bag is available in two distinct styles: Sellier and Retourne. The Sellier features external stitching for a more structured look, while the Retourne hides the stitching within the bag for a softer appearance. The Birkin, however, typically has stitching on the inside, with the Sellier version being a limited-edition option. - Price Range:
Pricing further differentiates the two bags. Birkins are generally more expensive, ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 for exotic leathers, while Kelly bags start at around $8,000 and can reach up to $27,000 for luxury materials. This price disparity extends to the resale market, where Birkins typically command higher prices due to their sought-after status.
Exploring Current Offerings: Hermès Kelly and Birkin Bags
For those considering adding an Hermès bag to their collection, here’s a look at some notable current options:
Kelly Sellier
- Black Hermès Box Kelly Sellier 32: A classic option, this bag’s structured silhouette and smooth box leather exude sophistication, complemented by gold-plated hardware.
- Pink Hermès 2021 Epsom Mini Kelly II Sellier 20: The Mini Kelly has recently become a trendsetter, featuring a delightful pale pink hue and all the essential elements of its larger counterparts.
Kelly Retourne
- Tan Hermès Togo Kelly II Retourne 32: This timeless piece showcases a softer silhouette, made from luxurious tan Togo leather with matching chevre goatskin lining.
- Purple Hermès 2020 Evercolor Kelly II Retourne 28: A vibrant addition, this bag combines practicality with a pop of color, perfect for daily use.
Birkin 25
- Dark Beige Hermès Togo Birkin 25: Elegant and versatile, this Birkin in dark beige pairs beautifully with any outfit.
- Blue Hermès Swift Birkin 25: A statement piece, this striking blue bag is both eye-catching and functional.
Birkin 30
- Black Hermès Epsom Birkin 30: A timeless classic, this bag’s spacious interior and grained Epsom leather make it ideal for everyday wear.
- Dark Pink Hermès Togo Birkin 30: This bag adds a splash of color, crafted from durable Togo leather and featuring palladium-plated hardware.
Conclusion
Whether you lean towards the refined elegance of the Kelly bag or the casual sophistication of the Birkin, both handbags symbolize luxury and timeless style. Understanding their histories, designs, and differences can help you choose the perfect addition to your wardrobe. As you explore the exquisite offerings from Hermès, you’re sure to find a bag that resonates with your personal style and elevates your collection.