Considered one of the ‘Big Three’ from the Hermès range, the Kelly bag was first brought to fruition in 1930, representing a nod to the equestrian bags of Hermès’ past but with more of a refined and elegant design.
Of course, when you consider the popularity of the Kelly bag and what underpins its high value and exceptional demand, you soon notice that it’s not just design but also prestige and influence at play. The Kelly owes much of its status – and even its name – to Grace Kelly. Back then, the bag was called a Sac a Dépêches and was stylish but not hugely sought after.
That is, until Grace Kelly picked one up. She famously used the bag as a prop in one of her movies in 1954 and then liked it so much that she kept it. Using a Kelly bag to conceal her baby bump at a red-carpet event in the mid-1950s tipped the consumer public over the edge, with Grace Kelly ultimately putting the bag on the map. So much so that, years later in 1977, and following a consistently high rush of demand, Hermès eventually renamed the bag as the Kelly.
This history plays an undeniably integral role in the popularity and status of the Kelly bag as it stands today. But that’s not the only notable feature to mention.
The Versatility of the Kelly Bag
It takes each artisan producer between 18 and 20 hours to hand-stitch and hand-craft each individual Kelly bag. The bag is constructed using 36 cuts of leather, held together with 680 stitches. All of this means that the iconic Kelly shape, which is known as a trapezoid with the wide base and narrower top, remains well structured – with the leather used impacting whether the shape is rigid or more relaxed.
With short handles that are designed to be held or nestled in the crook of the wearer’s arm, or an optional shoulder strap, the Kelly is famously versatile – with buyers spanning those looking for an everyday accessory to those seeking a bag for a special occasion, a collectible, or something else.
While the two core leathers used in the construction of a Kelly bag play their part in its versatility, with buyers able to choose between the rigid Sellier or the more relaxed Retourne, it’s the variety of sizes that really make this bag such a flexible accessory.
What Different Sizes Are Available?
There are eight different sizes of Kelly bag available – and the most popular and in-demand size right now might just surprise you.
The growing trend surrounding mini bags and small handheld bags, which overlook function in favour of style and a striking aesthetic, means that the Kelly 15 and Kelly 20 are hot on the market. The addition of a shoulder strap makes the Kelly bag an ideal accessory to match this trend, with online resources citing mini bags as being not just versatile and portable but also photogenic for the Instagram generation, minimalist, novel, and highly collectible.
There is also an argument in some scenarios that mini bags are more affordable. However, this is not necessarily the case – especially when dealing with luxury brands like Hermès.
The different bags available in the Kelly range span from the smallest Kelly 15 right up to the Kelly 50 – with the name of the bag providing a direct insight into its size. The number at the end of each bag variation shares its width in centimetres – i.e., the Kelly 15 is 15cm in width; the Kelly 20 has a base of 20cm, and so on.
Typically, the most practical bags for most users tend to be the Kelly 25 and Kelly 28 pieces. However, the final decision around bag size and which is right for you will depend on how you want to use your bag and what trend you want to slot into.
Tips for Choosing the Best Kelly Bag for You
With so many different sizes of Kelly to choose from, two different structures, and several core materials with varying hardware matches, the right bag for you will depend on your preferences and on where you buy from, as well as your budget and whether you prefer neutrals or bolder tones and unique patterns.
A reputable boutique reseller will be able to offer access to a range of Kelly bags depending on their stock levels and on demand – with consumers able to compare not only the different looks but also the different sizes. With each Kelly bag size boasting different textures and colour palettes, and with changing hardware options and finishes, there’s a style for every kind of buyer. You simply need to be open to browsing and hunting until you find your perfect match.
What consumers often overlook – until they visit us – is the power of visualisation. Putting a bag on your arm or holding it in your hand can quickly impact your feelings towards one particular size over another. Seeing how a bag looks on the shelf is very different to the experience of holding it in your hand.
Should I Buy a Kelly Bag?
A Kelly bag is not just a high-value luxury product, but also a stylish accessory – one that’s rich with history and heritage from the world of Hermès and luxury design.
Its prominence, first as the rather unpopular Sac a Dépêches bag, before finding fame under the influence of Grace Kelly, has made the Kelly a consistent name in luxury style since the 1950s. And long may it continue – with the range of sizes and countless colour palettes and finishes giving this bag a really versatile reputation among consumers.
To discover the versatility of this bag and to find your perfect Kelly in size and style, head to our boutique store in London today.
