Hermès is a luxury fashion brand known for its high-quality leather goods, including handbags, accessories, and clothing. Among their most coveted items are their iconic handbags, which have become a symbol of luxury and status. But just how many types of Hermès bags are there? In this article, we'll explore the different types of Hermès bags and what makes each one unique.
Short Answer: Over 80 distinct Hermès bag styles
Over 80 distinct Hermès bag styles currently in production, the luxury brand offers a rich portfolio of over 80 handbag styles, including the highly sought-after Birkin and Kelly to the versatile Constance, and the casual yet chic Evelyne, among others.
The History of Hermès Bags
Before we discuss the different types of Hermès bags, let's briefly examine the brand's history. Thierry Hermès founded Hermes in 1837 as a harness workshop in Paris, France. The brand quickly gained popularity for its high-quality leather goods and eventually expanded into other luxury items such as scarves, jewelry, and handbags.
The first Hermès handbag, the "Haut à Courroies" (HAC), was introduced in the late 1800s and was designed to carry riding gear. It wasn't until the 1920s that Hermes began producing handbags for women, and the iconic "Kelly" bag was born. Since then, Hermes has released numerous handbag styles, each with its own unique design and purpose.
Types of Hermès Bags
Here are some of the most popular and well-known styles of bags, keep in mind that many come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. The Kelly bag, another flagship model, comes in two structures: Sellier and Retourne, each offering a unique aesthetic through differences in stitching and edges. The Constance bag, known for its simple elegance, along with the Lindy, Picotin, and Bolide bags, further showcases the variety and depth of Hermès' handbag collection.
Moreover, the Birkin bag is available in four standard sizes: Birkin 25, Birkin 30, Birkin 35, and Birkin 40, catering to various needs and occasions. Additionally, the Hermès Kelly and Birkin bags are classified as 'quota bags,' indicating a purchase limit of two of these exclusive bags per customer in any calendar year, underscoring their exclusivity and desirability.
1. Birkin Bag
The Birkin bag is perhaps the most well-known and coveted of all Hermes bags. It was created in 1984 after actress Jane Birkin complained to Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas about the lack of a practical and stylish handbag. The Birkin bag features a boxy shape, double top handles, and a flap closure with a turn-lock clasp. It is available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leathers such as crocodile or alligator.
2. Kelly Bag
The Kelly bag, also known as the "Sac à Dépêches", was first introduced in the 1930s as a travel bag. It gained popularity in the 1950s when actress and Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly, was photographed carrying it. The Kelly bag features a trapezoid shape, a single top handle, and a flap closure with a signature "Kelly lock". It is available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leathers.
3. The Constance bag
The Constance bag was first introduced in 1959 and was named after the designer's daughter. It features a sleek, rectangular shape, a long shoulder strap, and a "H" clasp closure. The Constance bag is available in various sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leathers.
4. Evelyne Bag I
The Evelyne bag was first introduced in 1978 and was designed as a functional and casual crossbody bag. It features a rounded shape, a long shoulder strap, and a perforated "H" logo on the front. The Evelyne bag is available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leathers.
5. Garden Party Bag
The Garden Party bag was first introduced in 1996 and was designed as a more casual and affordable option than other Hermes bags. It features a spacious, tote-like shape, double top handles, and a snap closure. The Garden Party bag is available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leathers.
6. Picotin Lock Bag
The Picotin Lock bag was first introduced in 2002 and was designed as a more casual and affordable option compared to other Hermes bags. It features a bucket-like shape, a top handle, and a "H" clasp closure. The Picotin Lock bag is available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leathers.
7. Bolide Bag
The Bolide bag was first introduced in 1923 and was designed as a travel bag for the modern woman. It features a structured, cylindrical shape, double top handles, and a zip closure. The Bolide bag is available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leathers.
8. Halzan Bag
The Halzan bag was first introduced in 2014 and is designed as a versatile and functional bag for everyday use. It features a trapezoid shape, a detachable shoulder strap, and an "H" clasp closure. The Halzan bag is available in various sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leather.
9. Lindy Bag
The Lindy bag was first introduced in 2007 and was designed as a more modern and casual option than other Hermes bags. It features a slouchy, rounded shape, double top handles, and a detachable shoulder strap. The Lindy bag is available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leathers.
10. Steeple Tote
The Hermès Steeple Tote's design includes stirrup-shaped bag charms and sturdy handles, allowing for versatility in carrying options, whether by hand or on the arm. This tote is inspired by the spirit of equestrian sports, making it not just a bag but a piece of Hermès history.
11. Pursangle Tote
The Hermès Pursangle Tote showcases a blend of military canvas, taurillon Clemence leather, and Wooly canvas, making it a robust choice for those seeking both style and functionality. It features handles for easy carrying, a large compartment for storing essentials, a zipped interior back pocket for valuables, and two exterior pockets for additional storage. This tote is designed for the modern individual who values practicality and luxury.
12. Jige Clutch
The Jige clutch was first introduced in 1975 and is designed as a sleek and elegant evening bag. It features a slim, envelope-like shape, a flap closure, and an "H" clasp. The Jige clutch is available in a variety of sizes, materials, and colors, with the most expensive being made from exotic leather.
13. Bonus: Balusoie Bag
The Hermès Balusoie bag stands out with its unique "Wild" printed silk and Hunter cowhide construction. The bag is unlined, emphasizing the lightweight and soft nature of the silk, while the leather handle and palladium-plated hardware add a touch of sophistication and durability. Available in various prints, including the "La Promenade du Matin Bandana," this bag perfectly exemplifies Hermès' ability to combine traditional materials.
Conclusion
There are numerous types of Hermes bags, each with its own unique design and purpose. From the iconic Birkin and Kelly bags to the more casual Garden Party and Picotin Lock bags, there is a Hermes bag for every occasion and style. While these bags may come with a hefty price tag, they are considered timeless investments and a symbol of luxury and status.
