Curations
Hermès bag types
Hermès is known for some of the most recognizable handbags in the world, but the Birkin is only one part of the maison’s extensive collection.
From the structured elegance of the Birkin and Kelly to the relaxed practicality of the Evelyne and Picotin, each Hermès bag type has its own silhouette, construction, carrying style and character.
For collectors and first-time buyers, understanding the differences between Hermès handbags makes it easier to identify the style, size and configuration that best suits a personal collection.
At BirkinVault, we focus particularly on Hermès Birkin handbags, including classic, pre-owned, rare and exotic configurations.
What Are the Main Hermès Bag Types?
Hermès offers a diverse range of handbag silhouettes designed around different lifestyles and occasions.
Among the most recognizable are:
- Hermès Birkin
- Hermès Kelly
- Hermès Constance
- Hermès Evelyne
- Hermès Bolide
- Hermès Picotin
- Hermès Garden Party
- Hermès Herbag
Each has its own proportions, construction and carrying experience.
1. Hermès Birkin
The Hermès Birkin is arguably the maison’s most recognizable handbag.
Introduced in 1984, the Birkin was named after British actress and singer Jane Birkin following her famous encounter with Hermès executive Jean-Louis Dumas.
Its defining characteristics include:
- Structured silhouette
- Two rounded top handles
- Flap closure
- Turn-lock hardware
- Clochette and keys
- Protective metal feet
- Spacious interior
- Wide range of leathers and colors
The Birkin is primarily carried by hand or on the arm rather than over the shoulder.
Popular Birkin Sizes
Birkin 25
Compact and refined, suitable for essential everyday items.
Birkin 30
A versatile middle size with a balance between portability and capacity.
Birkin 35
Larger classic configuration with considerably more room.
Birkin 40
A substantial option for buyers who prefer maximum capacity.
For collectors, the exact combination of size, leather, color, hardware and condition can be just as important as the model itself.
2. Hermès Kelly
The Hermès Kelly predates the Birkin and has a long history within the maison.
The handbag became particularly associated with Princess Grace of Monaco, after whom it was officially renamed the Kelly.
The Kelly is distinguished by its:
- Single top handle
- Flap closure
- Turn-lock
- Structured silhouette
- Detachable shoulder strap on many configurations
- Distinctive trapezoidal shape
One of the most interesting aspects of the Kelly is its construction.
Sellier Kelly
The stitching is visible around the exterior edges, producing a crisp, structured appearance.
Retourne Kelly
The construction is turned inward, creating softer edges and a more relaxed silhouette.
This difference can dramatically change the appearance of the same Kelly size.
Birkin vs Kelly: What’s the Difference?
The Birkin and Kelly are often compared, but they offer different experiences.
| Feature | Birkin | Kelly |
|---|---|---|
| Handles | Two | One |
| Shoulder strap | Generally no | Available on many configurations |
| Silhouette | More open and relaxed | More structured |
| Closure | Flap with turn-lock | Flap with turn-lock |
| Carrying style | Hand or arm | Hand, arm or shoulder depending on configuration |
| Overall character | Relaxed luxury | Structured elegance |
If you prefer a more open tote-like design, the Birkin may appeal more.
If you want the option of carrying a structured handbag with a shoulder strap, the Kelly may be more suitable.
3. Hermès Constance
The Hermès Constance offers a completely different approach to the Birkin and Kelly.
Introduced in 1959, the Constance is recognized for its compact crossbody format and distinctive H-shaped clasp.
Key characteristics include:
- Crossbody design
- Adjustable strap
- Compact profile
- H clasp
- Structured appearance
- Day-to-evening versatility
The Constance is particularly appealing to buyers who prefer hands-free carrying.
4. Hermès Evelyne
The Evelyne represents the more relaxed side of Hermès.
It is recognized by its perforated H design and comfortable crossbody format.
Compared with the structured Birkin and Kelly, the Evelyne has a more casual character.
It can be particularly appealing for:
- Everyday errands
- Travel
- Casual outfits
- Hands-free carrying
- Buyers seeking a lighter, relaxed silhouette
The Evelyne demonstrates that Hermès luxury does not always have to mean formal structure.
5. Hermès Bolide
The Bolide has an important place in Hermès handbag history.
Its rounded silhouette and zip closure give it a distinctive appearance compared with the Birkin and Kelly.
The Bolide can offer:
- Rounded construction
- Zip-top closure
- Two handles
- Shoulder-strap options on some configurations
- Structured and relaxed variations
Its classic shape makes it an interesting choice for collectors who want something different from the more familiar Birkin and Kelly silhouettes.
6. Hermès Picotin
The Picotin takes inspiration from the traditional shape of a horse feed bag.
Its bucket-style construction gives it a relaxed, casual appearance.
The Picotin is particularly suited to buyers who prioritize:
- Easy access
- Casual styling
- Open construction
- Everyday practicality
- Relaxed luxury
It is considerably less formal than a Sellier Kelly or structured Birkin.
7. Hermès Garden Party
The Garden Party is another practical option within the Hermès handbag family.
Its spacious design and understated appearance make it particularly useful for everyday carrying.
Compared with a Birkin, it offers a more casual aesthetic and a less formal approach to luxury.
It can be a strong choice for someone who wants:
- More everyday capacity
- A relaxed silhouette
- A less formal handbag
- A versatile tote-style design
8. Hermès Herbag
The Herbag offers a distinctive interpretation of the traditional Hermès equestrian aesthetic.
Its removable elements and structured design give it a versatile character.
For collectors, the Herbag can be appealing because it provides a recognizable Hermès aesthetic while remaining visually different from the Birkin and Kelly.
Hermès Bag Types by Carrying Style
Choosing a handbag by carrying preference can make the buying process much easier.
Hand-Carried
- Birkin
- Kelly
- Bolide
Shoulder or Crossbody
- Constance
- Evelyne
- Kelly with compatible strap configurations
Casual Carry
- Picotin
- Garden Party
- Evelyne
Larger Capacity
- Birkin 35
- Birkin 40
- Larger Bolide configurations
- Garden Party
Hermès Bag Types by Occasion
Different silhouettes naturally suit different settings.
| Occasion | Recommended Styles |
|---|---|
| Formal events | Kelly, Birkin, Constance |
| Business | Birkin, Kelly, Bolide |
| Everyday | Birkin 30, Constance, Evelyne |
| Casual weekends | Evelyne, Picotin, Garden Party |
| Travel | Birkin 40, Bolide, Garden Party |
| Evening | Kelly 20, Constance, compact exotic styles |
These are style guidelines rather than strict rules. Personal preference should always come first.
Hermès Bag Types by Size
Size can significantly change the personality and practicality of a handbag.
Small Hermès Bags
Ideal for buyers carrying only essentials.
Examples include:
- Kelly 20
- Birkin 25
- Constance Mini
Medium Hermès Bags
A strong balance between capacity and portability.
Examples include:
- Birkin 30
- Kelly 25
- Kelly 28
Large Hermès Bags
Better suited to buyers who need additional capacity.
Examples include:
- Birkin 35
- Birkin 40
- Larger Bolide configurations
Hermès Leather Choices
The same handbag can look dramatically different depending on the leather.
Some commonly encountered Hermès leathers include:
Togo
A grained leather with a distinctive tactile texture.
Epsom
A structured embossed leather with a crisp appearance.
Clemence
A softer leather known for its supple feel.
Swift
A smooth leather that can emphasize color beautifully.
Box Calf
A smooth heritage leather associated with a refined, classic appearance.
Exotic Materials
Collectors may also encounter crocodile, alligator, ostrich and lizard configurations.
Exotic handbags require additional consideration regarding care, documentation and applicable regulations.
How Hardware Changes an Hermès Bag
Hardware is a relatively small detail that can dramatically change the visual character of a handbag.
Common finishes include:
- Gold
- Palladium
- Rose gold
- Permabrass and other specialized finishes
For example, black leather with gold hardware creates a warm and traditional appearance.
Etoupe with palladium hardware creates a cooler and understated combination.
There is no universally best hardware.
The choice depends on the collector’s personal taste and the exact configuration.
Are Hermès Bags a Good Investment?
Hermès handbags can have significant secondary-market demand, but it is important not to treat every handbag as a guaranteed investment.
The current BirkinVault article states specific annual appreciation figures of 14–18% for Birkin bags, 12–16% for Kelly bags and 10–14% for Constance bags. I recommend removing these figures unless you have a documented dataset and methodology that supports them.
Instead, explain that secondary-market value can be influenced by:
- Rarity
- Condition
- Color
- Leather
- Hardware
- Size
- Provenance
- Limited-edition status
- Current collector demand
- Purchase price
- Market conditions
That approach is more accurate and much more sustainable for an authoritative luxury website.
What Should You Check Before Buying a Pre-Owned Hermès Bag?
When purchasing a pre-owned Hermès handbag, look beyond the model name.
Review:
Authenticity
The complete handbag should be professionally evaluated rather than judged by one feature.
Condition
Check corners, handles, leather, hardware, interior and overall structure.
Configuration
Confirm the exact size, leather, color and hardware.
Accessories
Determine exactly what accompanies the handbag.
Documentation
Review available records and provenance information where applicable.
Seller Policies
Understand shipping, returns and purchasing terms before completing a high-value transaction.
How to Choose the Right Hermès Bag Type
The best Hermès bag depends on how you intend to use it.
Choose a Birkin if:
You prefer a spacious, iconic top-handle design and want extensive options in size, leather and color.
Choose a Kelly if:
You prefer a more structured silhouette and the flexibility of a shoulder strap on compatible configurations.
Choose a Constance if:
You want a refined crossbody handbag.
Choose an Evelyne if:
You prefer relaxed everyday luxury.
Choose a Bolide if:
You appreciate a rounded silhouette and secure zip closure.
Choose a Picotin if:
You want casual, open bucket-style carrying.
Choose a Garden Party if:
You need practical everyday capacity in a relaxed tote format.
Which Hermès Bag Is Best for a First-Time Buyer?
There is no single answer.
A first-time buyer should consider:
How much do you carry?
Choose your size based on your actual daily needs.
Do you prefer structured or relaxed leather?
Different materials create dramatically different experiences.
Do you want hand carry or crossbody?
This can immediately narrow your options.
Do you prefer understated or statement luxury?
Black and neutral tones offer versatility, while distinctive colors and exotic materials create a stronger collector presence.
Are you buying new or pre-owned?
The secondary market can provide access to discontinued colors, vintage pieces and rare configurations.
Building a Hermès Collection
A thoughtfully built collection does not need to contain every model.
Many collectors begin with one versatile handbag and gradually explore different characteristics.
For example:
First piece: Black Birkin 30
Second piece: Neutral Kelly 28
Third piece: Constance
Fourth piece: Rare color or exotic configuration
This creates variety in:
- Size
- Function
- Color
- Leather
- Construction
- Occasion
The strongest collection is ultimately one that reflects the owner’s personal taste.
Hermès Bag Types: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous Hermès bag?
The Birkin and Kelly are generally the two most internationally recognized Hermès handbag styles.
What is the difference between a Birkin and Kelly?
The Birkin has two top handles and a more open tote-like design, while the Kelly typically has one top handle and can be carried with a shoulder strap depending on the configuration.
Which Hermès bag is best for everyday use?
That depends on your lifestyle. The Birkin 30, Constance, Evelyne and Picotin can all work well for different everyday preferences.
Which Hermès bag is best for formal occasions?
The Kelly, particularly structured Sellier configurations, can provide an especially formal appearance. Compact Birkin and exotic configurations can also be suitable.
Which Hermès bag is easiest to carry crossbody?
The Constance and Evelyne are designed around crossbody carrying, while compatible Kelly configurations can also offer shoulder carrying.
Does Hermès make exotic handbags?
Yes. Collectors may encounter handbags made with exotic materials such as crocodile, alligator, ostrich and lizard.
Which Hermès bag holds its value best?
There is no universal answer. Secondary-market performance varies according to the exact model, configuration, rarity, condition, provenance and market demand.
Explore Hermès Bags at BirkinVault
The world of Hermès bag types extends far beyond a single silhouette.
From the unmistakable Birkin and sophisticated Kelly to the Constance, Evelyne, Bolide, Picotin and Garden Party, each design offers a different interpretation of luxury.
For collectors, the most important decision is not simply choosing the most famous model.
It is finding the combination of silhouette, size, leather, color, hardware and condition that fits your collection.
Explore the current Hermès Birkin collection at BirkinVault and discover classic, pre-owned, rare and exotic configurations.
