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Hermès Herbag Guide
Dubbed the “little sister of the Kelly,” “Kelly Country,” or “two-in-one bag,” the Hermès Herbag combines the elegance of its famous counterpart with a playful twist. Launched in the 1980s, the Hermès Herbag, features a unique, interchangeable design with a removable canvas body and leather flap, allowing for versatility and a touch of personal style. The bag was discontinued in the mid-2000s and reintroduced in 2009 as the Herbag Zip with additional pockets. The Herbag blends functionality with Hermès craftsmanship, all while acting as a more accessible option. She is perfect for those seeking both practicality and the iconic charm that the house is known for, making it a beloved choice for modern-day adventurers.
Published on 17 Sep 2024 / Updated on 19 Feb 2025
Table of Contents
- Discover pre-owned Hermès Herbags, ready to shop
- How do I choose the right Herbag?
- Hermès Herbags in real life
- How do you recognise an authentic Herbag?
- Sizing
- Stitching
- Material
- Colour and Hardware
- Details
- What is the rarest Hermès Herbag?
- What is the most popular Hermès Herbag?
- Related topics
- The most coveted Herbags on SACLÀB
- FAQ
- Is the Herbag Unisex?
- Is the Herbag a Sellier or Retourne Bag?
- What are some other Herbag renditions?
- Caring for your Herbag
- Price of an Hermès Herbag
- Discover other popular Hermès bag styles
- • The Herbag is available in a wide array of Hermès colours and leathers.
- • There are 4 standard Herbag sizes: The Herbag 31, perfect for everyday use; the Herbag 39, perfect for work; the Herbag 50, and the Herbag 52, both capacious weekenders.
- • SACLÀB has sold 63 Herbags since 2018, with 37 in 2023 alone.
- • Prices range between €1,500 to €4,000 on the secondhand market and between €2,000 to €2,500 in-store.
- • Exotic Herbags are not common.
- • As a specialist in Hermès handbags, you’ll usually find a selection of 2-4 authentic pre-loved Herbags available in stock at SACLÀB.
- • In-stock, the highest-priced Herbag is the Herbag 31 from Vache Hunter and Toile Quadrille in Black and Ecru for €4,034.
- • In-stock, the most affordable Herbag is the Herbag 39 from Vache Hunter and Toile in Ginger and Naturel for €2,390.
“The Hermès Herbag is a blend of practicality and elegance, offering timeless style with a modern twist.”
Discover pre-owned Hermès Herbags, ready to shop
How do I choose the right Herbag?
This guide will undoubtedly help you make the right decision. But for a quick three-step nudge, consider style, functionality and personal taste first.
- Choose the Generation: Decide which Herbag model suits your style and needs. The original Herbag has a simple, clean look with a classic flap closure, while the updated ‘Herbag Zip’ offers added practicality with an external zipped pocket and a removable interior pouch. This newer version allows for greater functionality without sacrificing the bag’s timeless appeal.
- Select the Size: Consider your daily needs when choosing the size. Smaller sizes, such as the 31 or 39, provide a chic yet functional look that works well for everyday essentials. In contrast, larger sizes like the 50 or 52 are ideal for travel or those who prefer a roomier bag. Keep in mind that the Herbag is generally more spacious than the compact Kelly, offering a balance between practicality and elegance.
- Pick the Material and Colour: Decide on the material and colour that match your personal style. The Herbag typically combines durable canvas with leather accents, making it sturdy yet stylish. Opt for neutral tones like black, beige, or navy for versatility, or select bold colours like red or orange for a standout statement. The canvas body allows for easy customisation with different flaps, providing a playful way to change the bag’s look according to your mood or occasion.
Find the best Hermès Herbag bag for you!
Hermès Herbags in real life
While photos can provide a glimpse, seeing a Hermès Herbag in person is essential for a truly informed decision, especially given its generally large, casual style that fits differently on various body types. For a better idea of how the bag looks and feels, check out real-life examples on our SACLÀB Instagram page. Alternatively, you can book a session with our virtual advisory service to explore your desired bag from every angle—hardware, interior, and size—ensuring you feel confident in your investment.
How do you recognise an authentic Herbag?
When authenticating an Hermès Herbag, understanding its unique features is crucial. At SACLÀB, our experts meticulously verify each Herbag so you can shop with ease.
Sizing
Genuine Herbags are available in various Hermès sizes, such as 31, 39, 50, and 52 cm, measured across the base. The bag should maintain a well-defined shape and sturdy structure, with the ability to stand upright on a flat surface. In Spring 2024 Hermès also introduced the new Mini Herbag, a dainty iteration with a long, wide shoulder strap for effortless on-the-go styling.
Stitching
Authentic Herbags are hand-stitched using the Hermès saddle stitch, known for its slight slant and clean finish. Check for tight, even stitches with no loose threads or visible glue.
Material
Herbags are primarily crafted from canvas with leather flaps and handles. The leather most commonly used is Vache Hunter, a sturdy, stiff cowhide that is rather prone to scratches. It should feel soft yet durable, and the canvas should be sturdy, not flimsy. Counterfeits often use low-quality materials or have strong, artificial smells.
Colour and Hardware
Herbags come in seasonal and classic Hermès colours. Usually palladium or gold-plated, the hardware should be heavy, smooth, and consistent across all metal parts.
Details
Look for the embossed “Hermès Paris” stamp in crisp, well-proportioned letters on the Clou de Selle clasp. The Herbag is often reversible, allowing for a change in style.
“Authenticating an Hermès Herbag means paying close attention to the details—from the precise stitching to the distinctive hardware—each element should reflect Hermès’ renowned craftsmanship.”
What is the rarest Hermès Herbag?
Unlike the Birkin or Kelly, the Hermès Herbag does not have a multitude of editions, but rare versions like the limited-edition Herbag Pegase Pop and H Vibration Herbag stand out. Launched in 2019, the Pegase Pop features a Pegasus design by artist Dimitri Rybaltchenko woven onto Ecru canvas, with leather accents in Black, Rouge Piment, or Nature. The same year, the H Vibration Herbag was released, showcasing a ’70s-inspired graphic pattern with Hermès’ signature “H” motif, available in similar tonal shades. For a bit more of a premium price, these unique designs are coveted by collectors.
What is the most popular Hermès Herbag?
The most popular Hermès Herbag is generally the Herbag Zip in size 31. This model combines the classic appeal of the Herbag with added practicality, including an external zip pocket and a removable interior pouch, making it versatile and ideal for daily use. The size 31 is favoured for its compact yet spacious design, offering the perfect balance between functionality and elegance, while Hermès classics like Black, Etoupe, and Rouge are among the most sought-after colours. Whereas traditional models have canvas bodies, coated Berline canvas bodies have risen in popularity among collectors in recent years. This design adds a layer of durability and waterproof protection, making the bag ideal for various conditions. The glossy finish of the coated canvas also enhances its appeal, adding a touch of glamour that makes it even more sought after in the market.
Related topics
FAQ
Is the Herbag Unisex?
Yes, the Hermès Herbag is considered unisex, particularly in its larger sizes. Its minimalist design and practical functionality make it suitable for anyone looking for a stylish, everyday bag that transcends gender.
Is the Herbag a Sellier or Retourne Bag?
The Herbag can mimic both Sellier and Retourne styles. It’s completely reversible—turn the canvas body inside out to create a more structured Sellier look, hiding the exterior pocket and exposing inside seams, which can feature striking contrasting piping.
What are some other Herbag renditions?
The Herbag also comes in unique versions like the Herbag Cabine, a larger travel bag, and the Herbag Backpack, which offers a hands-free, casual option while retaining its signature style.
Caring for your Herbag
The Herbag is more resistant to weather than the Birkin or Kelly, thanks to its casual design, durable canvas body, and fewer structured elements that can be damaged by water. However, to keep your Herbag looking its best, regular maintenance is essential. Use a high-quality leather conditioner and protective polish annually, and clean the leather parts with a soft cloth. Waterproof the strap to prevent fraying, and use a bag liner to maintain its shape and prevent stretching, keeping it in excellent condition for years to come.
Price of an Hermès Herbag
The Hermès Herbag is generally more affordable than other Hermès icons like the Birkin or Kelly, partly because it’s not a “quota bag”—meaning it isn’t subject to the brand’s strict purchase limitations, which adds to the exclusivity and higher resale value of other models. Bought in-store, a classic Herbag 31 Zip will set you back around €2,600 in 2024. Notably, Hermès raised the bag’s boutique price by almost 20% since 2023!
On the secondary market, Herbag prices vary depending on size, colour, material, and condition, typically ranging from €1,500 to €4,000. While it doesn’t reach the resale heights of the Birkin or Kelly, its practicality and versatile style continue to attract collectors looking for a more attainable entry point into Hermès.
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