There are two collections which fall under the Hermès brand, and which garner equal interest in terms of notoriety, popularity, and style. The Birkin and Kelly bags both exhibit their own unique design features and finishes and are equally stylish in terms of the materials that they use and the way they sit on the wrist or shoulder of the wearer.
Both available in an endless array of colours and designs, the Birkin and Kelly bags are both named after famous women who in some way influenced the design or popularity of the bags – with the Birkin named after the famous actress Jane Birkin, who helped inform its creation, while the Kelly was renamed after the bag used by Grace Kelly to hide her pregnancy bump.
With that in mind, and with the similarities largely surrounding the popularity, coveted status, and value of both
Hermès handbags, what is it that makes these two bags such staples in the luxury accessories world? In this blog, we’re focussing on the differences between the two Hermès handbag collections, and what makes both so equally popular among buyers.
The Hermès Birkin
Backstory and History
When Jane Birkin sat next to the CEO of Hermès on an aeroplane, the result of their conversation became one of the most coveted, in-demand, and valuable bags in the world. A new mother at the time, Birkin outlined her desire for a handbag that was stylish, and that looked good, but which also offered sufficient storage space and pockets for everything she needed while out and about – inspiring Jean-Louis Dumas to create the now famous Birkin bag.
Since its release in 1984, the Birkin has become the subject of many iconic quotes from movies (Sex and the City to name just one example), and has seen a multitude of limited-edition releases spanning seasonal trends and colour palettes, valuable hardware and diamante detailing, and the use of some of the rarest materials in the world.
Sizes Available
One of the aspects that Jane Birkin brought to Dumas’ attention was women’s desire for functional everyday bags that are still intrinsically stylish and designed to provide a balanced and design-centric aesthetic. For this reason, the Birkin has always existed in a number of sizes, the standard sizes being the Birkin 25, 30, 35, and 40 – with the numbers relating to the bag’s width in centimetres. It is worth noting that some exceptionally exclusive models have been made in a Birkin 20 size over the years, though this is not considered one of the standard sizes.
Features, Finishes, and Iconic Models
Since their original release, the Birkin collection has enjoyed a never-ending array of materials and colour palettes – yet the basics of the bags have remained very much as they were in the first few models created.
Brought to life by craftsmen who know the design concept and pattern like the back of their hand, every Birkin is made to a consistently high quality and boasts a standalone structure that holds its shape, and which has a central latch. This latch, and the other hardware across the bag’s design, varies depending on the model, and can be made from anything from palladium to white gold, yellow gold, or diamond detailing.
Among the most iconic Birkin models, buyers and sellers alike are often drawn to the Hermès Himalaya Birkin, the classic and timeless Gold Birkin bag, and the limited-edition Faubourg Birkin bag, which was released in homage to the brand’s flagship storefront in Paris.
The Hermès Kelly
Backstory and History
The Hermès Kelly is another iconic bag that owes its popularity to a famous female figure, this time Grace Kelly – who used the already-in-circulation bag to hide her pregnancy bump in 1956. The bag became so popular after this occasion that the brand renamed the bag the Hermès Kelly.
Prior to this, the Kelly bag was called the Sac à Dépêches and was primarily a practical and functional handbag that boasted a rigid and stable structure and which held its shape exceptionally well. When comparing the Hermès Kelly with the Birkin, it is important to note that Jane Birkin’s own inspiration for the Birkin bag lay in the existing design of the Kelly, though with more of an eye to everyday functionality rather than the optimum luxury epitomised by the Kelly.
Sizes Available
Like the Hermès Birkin, the Kelly has a range of different sizes – ranging from the 20cm “Mini” to the 25, 28, 32, 35, 40, 45, and even the 50cm model (though the larger three are much harder to find on the standard market).
The numbers equate to the width of the bag in centimetres.
Features, Finishes, and Iconic Models
The Hermès Kelly is the original Hermès handbag that was coveted and loved by stars and investment buyers alike. Like Birkin, there are a handful of exceptionally rare pieces that have been crafted throughout the brand’s history and which are not only iconic in terms of aesthetics but also fetch some of the highest prices on the retail and resale market.
Some examples of rare and coveted Hermès Kelly bags include the Kelly Ardennes bag, the Kelly Danse, which boasts a different structure and can be worn in different ways, and the Kelly In and Out, which presents a colourful design on the outside – a move away from the block-colour standard that adorns most Hermès bags.
A Detailed Design Comparison of Birkin vs. Kelly
The Iconic Birkin
If the Birkin were a person, it would be the ultimate multitasker — stylish, bold, and effortlessly chic. This bag has a structured yet spacious design that's perfect for the woman who wants both elegance and practicality. With its trapezoidal shape and large opening, the Birkin provides plenty of room without sacrificing style. It features the famous top handles which are very practical.
Whether you're heading out to an important business meeting or simply taking off for the weekend, this bag is the perfect partner-in-crime. There's something subtle yet classy about the Birkin that makes it the most versatile handbag ever.
The Classic Kelly
On the other hand, Kelly is about subtle, sophisticated elegance. First launched as the Sac à Dépêches in the 1930s, it became iconic when Grace Kelly famously used it to shield her pregnancy bump.
Sleek, slim, and structured, the Kelly feels a bit more formal and sophisticated than the Birkin. It has just one top handle, with the standout feature — a flap closure with lock — harkening to old-school Hollywood glamour while imparting the utility of yet another barrier against theft or mischief. And there's something inherently classy about a Kelly bag, which justifies it in so many women who seek just something a tad more chic and poised.
Material and Leather Options
Hermès really goes all out with its materials. Both the Birkin and Kelly have a gorgeous choice of rich leathers, and although some may overlap, each style has its own specific selection to make it distinct.
Birkin Leathers
Birkin is somewhat of a chameleon in terms of leather options. It is made in a range of leathers that change the visual appeal of the bag and the feel of the touch. A fan favourite is Togo leather: soft and supple, with a rich texture that gives it a good recognition from afar. If you prefer something even softer in feel and a more matte-like finish, then Clemence would be the way to go. It has a gorgeous grain and feels so cosy in your hands.
Epsom, on the other hand, is more structured and sleek, offering a slightly more refined, polished vibe. Swift leather, less commonly seen, is smooth and supple, making it an excellent choice for a bag that needs to maintain a clean, modern aesthetic.
Kelly Leathers
The Kelly, being the more formal and polished of the two, often comes in some of Hermès' most luxurious leather options. Box Calf is the standout here — glossy, sophisticated, and elegant. The only downside? It's a bit more delicate and can scratch easily, but for those who are willing to take extra care, it's totally worth it.
If you’re looking for something a bit sturdier but still refined, Chevre de Coromandel is a fantastic choice. It has a slightly more textured finish but is just as elegant as it is durable. Of course, you’ll also see Togo and Epsom here, both of which bring a more structured and practical feel to the Kelly.
Durability & Aesthetic Implications
So, what does all of this mean for you as a buyer?
Well, it comes down to both longevity and style. If you are looking for a bag that will last a long time and can handle some daily wear, Togo is a good choice — scratch-resistant and durable. But if you're more of a high-gloss sophistication type of person, then Kelly in Box Calf is definitely the way to go. At the end of the day, both are crafted from the finest materials, so whether you opt for one leather or the other, you're investing in something special.
Colour Range and Seasonal Offerings
The Birkin: Bold & Playful
The Birkin is a color lover's dream. With its bold, versatile colour palette, it's no wonder that Hermès tends to roll out more vibrant shades during spring and summer collections. From stunning blues and greens to pretty pastels, the Birkin often makes a statement in a way that feels fresh and fun.
Kelly: Tradition Elegance
Then there is Kelly, in more subdued, traditionally classic tints. Imagine all those gorgeous, deep-rich tones reflecting sophistication and classiness. The more restrained colour choice for the Kelly bag exudes a sort of aristocracy; often, it would keep within a more refined range of blacks, browns, and neutrals.
However, that doesn't mean Kelly can't be fun. While much more subtle with its colours, seasonal changes and a handful of limited edition colours do periodically surface giving something truly special to collectors.
Hardware and Lock Details
Birkin's Daring Hardware
The Birkin is famous for its eye-catching hardware. From the padlock to the clasp, it is something more than a tool and a beautiful contrast to leather, gleaming in finishes like palladium, gold, or ruthenium.
Be it classic or modern, the Birkin hardware stands out and adds an extra layer of luxury to the overall look of the bag. Of course, functional, but it also speaks to the wearer's appreciation of fine details.
The Kelly's Signature Lock
In terms of the Kelly, it's the lock that takes centre stage. The Kelly turn-lock closure is not only functional but also a hallmark of the bag. Sure, it secures the bag, but it also brings an air of formality and sophistication. It is what makes the Kelly, in tandem with the padlock, have a certain distinctive finish.
Much like the rest of the Kelly, hardware can run from classic palladium to warm yellow gold, and some even feature diamond embellishments for that extra touch of glamour.
Price Differences and Resale Value
Price Comparison
Both Birkin and Kelly are highly priced; however, the Birkin is usually priced more than the Kelly. A standard Birkin in Togo leather can start at about $10,000 and go as high as $15,000 for size, material, or special features like exotic leather or customisations.
On the contrary, the Kelly, even though luxurious, typically starts at a much lower point. A Kelly in Togo leather starts from approximately $9,000 up to $12,000. However, if the versions are rare, that is, in exotic leather or special editions, prices can go up to close to or over $15,000.
Resale Value
The Birkin and Kelly both retain their value amazingly well in resale. While the Birkin generally will outperform the Kelly by resale price, especially if it is a rare edition or made from exotic material, limited releases or bags with highly sought-after colors may sometimes bring much higher prices.
While the Kelly is still an excellent investment and holds value well into the future, it's generally considered to be a more niche piece. As this is a more formal and structured bag, demand for it will largely depend on style, so specific colours or materials will be far less in demand than others. However, a perfectly preserved Kelly, that's especially from a harder-to-find collection, is always going to hold incredible value.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Here are some tips on keeping your Birkin or Kelly looking as beautiful as the day you bought it.
Taking Care of Your Hermès Bag
- Make sure it stays dry to prevent fading, cracking, and warping.
- Clean regularly by wiping it with a soft cloth.
- Store your bag in its dust bag when you are not using it, and store it in a cool, dry place.
Common Problems
- Scratching: Box Calf leather is gorgeous but tends to scratch easily, so you will need to be very cautious of where you place your bag.
- Colour bleeds: Light-colored bags such as white or beige require greater care to prevent dirt from getting into them and discolouration.
Personalisation Options
One of the reasons Hermès bags are so coveted is because they offer personalisation options. Whether it's adding your initials, choosing a unique colour combination, or selecting custom hardware, these touches make each Birkin or Kelly one-of-a-kind.
Popular Culture References
Birkin and Kelly are both popular cultural icons known to stand for wealth, prestige, and timeless elegance. Birkin, particularly has now become the byword of luxury and appears in cinema. Most recently in movies such as Sex and the City and The Devil Wears Prada.
Is Hermès Handbag Worth the Investment?
Whether you are drawn towards the Hermès Kelly or the Hermès Birkin, the investment potential of any luxury handbag from this brand lies in the impeccable craftsmanship, the quality materials, and the prestige of the brand itself, which renders every piece a high-value luxury good.
Conclusion
So, which one do you love? The relaxed versatility of the Birkin or the classic sophistication of the Kelly? We look forward to hearing your thoughts!
Here at Love Luxury, we combine access to some of the best luxury handbags and designer goods on the market with a reputable valuation and authentication service – ensuring that every buyer and seller walk away with the guarantee that what they have purchased from or sold to us is 100% authentic.
Browse our in-store and online boutique to uncover some of the Hermès handbags that we currently have in stock.
