The Hermès bag — a timeless icon that many dream of owning one day. Among the most emblematic pieces in their collection are the Birkin and the Kelly.
Both are renowned as symbols of ultimate luxury, but when it comes time to choose, many people find themselves wondering: What’s the difference? Which one suits me better?
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the two signature bags that define Hermès — the Birkin and the Kelly. We’ll compare everything from their design and structure to how hard they are to find, their retail and resale prices, investment value, and how to actually buy one. With the latest insights for 2025, we’ll also guide you through how to choose your very first Hermès bag.
Often referred to as “Hermès’ two great icons,” the Birkin and the Kelly are timeless masterpieces that have captivated generations. While both are beloved around the world, each has its own unique history and story behind its creation.
By exploring their origins, we can better understand the philosophy and allure woven into each of these legendary bags.
The Birkin bag was born in 1984.
It takes its name from Jane Birkin — the British actress and singer who was living in France at the time. According to legend, she happened to be seated next to Jean-Louis Dumas, then CEO of Hermès, on a flight. During their conversation, she casually mentioned how difficult it was to find a chic bag that was also spacious enough for daily use. Inspired by her words, Dumas sketched the first design for what would become the Birkin.
The result was a bag that could hold everything she needed, while still maintaining an elegant and refined look — something beautiful, yet practical for everyday life.
Thanks to its rich backstory and functional design, the Birkin has since become a true emblem of the Hermès brand.
The Kelly bag originally made its debut in the 1930s under the name “Sac à dépêches.” But its transformation into a global icon came decades later, thanks to none other than Grace Kelly — the Hollywood actress-turned-Princess of Monaco.
In the 1950s, Grace Kelly was frequently seen carrying this elegant Hermès bag. The turning point came when a photo of her using the bag to discreetly shield her baby bump was published in LIFE magazine. The image captivated the world, and soon the bag was affectionately dubbed the “Kelly bag.”
In 1977, Hermès officially renamed the design to Kelly, in honor of the princess who had brought it worldwide fame.
Graceful and refined, the Kelly remains a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Its structured design and timeless silhouette make it a favorite for more formal occasions — a true embodiment of what it means to be a lady.
Many people wonder, “Aren’t the Birkin and Kelly pretty similar?” At first glance, yes — both are crafted from luxurious leather, with sleek, structured silhouettes that embody Hermès’ craftsmanship.
But once you take a closer look, you’ll find some key differences in how they open, how they’re carried, and how they fit into your lifestyle.
The Birkin is designed for ease of use. You can carry it with the flap open, making it easy to access your belongings throughout the day. Loosening the side straps allows the bag to open wider, adding to its relaxed, casual versatility. It’s perfect for those who want elegance with everyday practicality.
The Kelly, on the other hand, is more formal in its structure. It’s meant to be carried with the flap closed and secured with its signature cadena lock. Though opening and closing it takes a bit more effort, its refined appearance makes it ideal for dressier occasions — a polished, poised companion.
Another major difference is the strap.
The Kelly comes with a shoulder strap, giving you a convenient 2-way option — hand-carry or shoulder wear. This versatility makes it suitable for both casual outings and formal events, appealing to those who value flexibility.
The Birkin, by contrast, doesn’t include a strap. It’s designed solely for hand or arm carry, which gives it a classic and sophisticated feel — but on days when you're carrying a lot or moving around for long hours, it might feel a bit less convenient.
When choosing a Birkin or Kelly, one detail that often goes unnoticed — yet makes a big difference — is the construction method. Both bags come in two distinct styles: Sellier (external stitching) and Retourne (internal stitching). Each has its own charm and creates a very different impression.
Even if you’re looking at two bags of the same size and leather, the difference between Sellier and Retourne can completely change the bag’s character. It’s definitely something to consider when choosing your perfect Hermès piece.
Both the Birkin and Kelly are available in a range of sizes, each offering its own balance of function and fashion. Here are the most popular choices:
The size you choose significantly affects both the appearance and practicality of the bag. Think about how much you typically carry, your body frame, and how the bag will fit into your lifestyle — finding the right balance is key.
Both the Birkin and the Kelly are famously known for being unavailable on demand. You can’t just walk into a Hermès boutique and expect to see them displayed on the shelf. This naturally leads many people to wonder — which one is harder to get?
The rarity of each model isn’t just about production numbers. It also depends on factors like color, material, size, and Hermès’ unique purchasing system. Let’s take a closer look at three key points that influence their scarcity.
Hermès doesn’t follow a typical retail model when it comes to the Birkin and Kelly. These bags aren’t freely available in stores, and purchasing one often requires a mix of timing, client history, and sometimes, a little luck.
There are no official rules — but insiders often refer to the so-called “30-minute rule,” and it’s widely believed that past purchase history and your relationship with the sales associate may influence whether a bag is offered to you.
This sense of exclusivity is part of what adds to the mystique and prestige of the Hermès brand.
Availability varies dramatically depending on the size, leather, and color combination. For example, the Birkin 25 has become one of the hardest to find, largely driven by the popularity of mini bags. Even in the resale market, this size often sells out as soon as it becomes available.
The Kelly, particularly in sizes 25 and 28, is also highly sought after. Models with the Sellier construction (external stitching) or crafted from exotic leathers such as crocodile or lizard are especially rare and command a premium.
As a result, while both bags are rare, many would argue that the Birkin 25 stands out as the most elusive.
In terms of color, classic shades like Gold and Etoupe are consistently in high demand, and supply rarely keeps up. When it comes to materials, exotic leathers — already produced in extremely limited quantities — raise both the rarity and the price significantly.
Ultimately, the real rarity comes down to the combination of size × color × leather × hardware. A Birkin or Kelly in your exact dream specs might be truly one of a kind.
Because boutique purchases depend so heavily on timing and relationships, many buyers now turn to the resale market to find the exact bag they want — without the wait or uncertainty.
In recent years, the rise of specialized luxury resale shops with expertise in Hermès has made this a trustworthy alternative. These stores offer carefully authenticated and well-preserved pieces, including rare models you might never see in-store.
Take XIAOMA, for example. With over 30 years of experience, their expert appraisers meticulously inspect each bag one by one. Only pristine or gently used items — including many that are brand-new or unused — make it to their shelves. This makes it a great option even for first-time buyers.
▶︎ [Browse Birkin stock at XIAOMA]
▶︎ [Browse Kelly stock at XIAOMA]
When choosing your dream bag, price is a factor you simply can't ignore — especially with high-end brands like Hermès. It's not just about the retail price; understanding the resale market and potential investment value is just as important.
In this section, we’ll break down the 2025 pricing trends for both the Birkin and Kelly, including their retail pricing, resale market value, and how they’re performing as investment pieces.
Hermès reviews its pricing annually. Below is a reference guide to the 2025 retail prices for classic leather options like Togo, Taurillon Clemence, and Epsom:
※Note: Prices may vary depending on material, hardware, and construction style.
In 2025, both the Birkin and Kelly continue to command high prices in the resale market. In many cases, pre-owned bags — especially in excellent condition or rare combinations — sell for more than retail.
※Prices reflect standard materials (Togo, Epsom, Taurillon Clemence). Actual market prices vary based on color, hardware, stamp year, condition, and included accessories.
One reason Hermès continues to fascinate collectors is its ability to hold — or even gain — value over time.
Models like the Birkin 25 and Kelly 25 consistently perform well as assets. Their small size, rarity, and strong demand contribute to steady price growth, making them more than just fashion — they’re financial tools.
If you choose a desirable size in a classic color, keep it in excellent condition, and include original accessories, there's a good chance you can resell it at a strong price — even years later.
This combination of daily enjoyment and long-term resale security is a big part of what makes Hermès bags so unique.
Recommended Read: “Turn Your Bag Into an Asset: Top 5 Hermès Models That Hold Their Value in 2025”
"Can I really afford a Birkin or Kelly with my income?"
It's a question many people ask — and understandably so. These iconic Hermès bags are not just fashion items; they’re serious investments. But what kind of people are actually buying them?
In this section, we’ll explore the typical income range and lifestyle of Hermès bag owners, and how different sizes and materials make the dream more accessible than you might think.
In general, the core buyer segment for Birkins and Kellys tends to have a household income of ¥10 million to ¥30 million per year (roughly $65,000–$200,000+ USD, depending on exchange rates and location).
While many are high earners like entrepreneurs, doctors, and lawyers, there’s also a growing number of dual-income households and financially savvy professionals making well-planned purchases.
More than income, though, what drives a person to buy their first Hermès is often tied to life milestones and a deep sense of purpose:
For many, it’s not just a bag — it’s a symbol of personal growth or achievement.
If you're wondering whether Hermès is within reach, know this: your choice of size and leather makes a big difference.
Smaller models like the Birkin 25 or Kelly 25 are highly coveted, especially in recent years. As a result, they often come with premium resale prices — sometimes above retail, even for gently used pieces.
On the other hand, slightly larger sizes like Birkin 30 or Kelly 32 tend to be more reasonably priced in the pre-owned market. In fact, well-maintained pieces can sometimes be found in the ¥1.5–1.8 million range, making them a more accessible entry point.
In terms of leather, choosing classic options like Togo, Epsom, or Taurillon Clemence can keep costs manageable, especially when compared to exotic skins like crocodile or lizard.
So, yes — with smart choices, your first Hermès can be a very realistic goal.
▶︎ [Browse more affordable Birkin & Kelly bags on XIAOMA]
When selecting a bag, your lifestyle and daily needs are just as important as your budget. Here are some suggestions based on how you plan to use your Hermès:
Choosing a model that genuinely fits your lifestyle, rhythm, and wardrobe makes it easier to use — and love — your Hermès for years to come.
"They’re both stunning — how do I even choose?"
That’s one of the most common dilemmas among those torn between the Birkin and the Kelly. Both are timeless Hermès icons, and each offers its own unique appeal. But depending on your lifestyle, values, and how you plan to use (or invest in) your bag, one might suit you better than the other.
If you're considering your very first Hermès, here’s how to think about your decision — based on purpose, practicality, and potential resale value.
When it comes to a first-time purchase, these key points can help guide your decision:
Among all the options, Kelly 28 (Retourne style) and Birkin 30 are particularly popular with first-time buyers. These sizes are easy to handle, versatile for many occasions, and have strong availability in both primary and resale markets — meaning you’re less likely to regret your choice.
If you're considering your Hermès bag as an investment as well as a fashion statement, it pays to be strategic.
Look out for these value-retaining features:
Especially for Birkin 25 and Kelly 25, resale prices for bags in excellent condition can often match — or even exceed — original purchase prices. This has made the idea of “wearing your asset” increasingly appealing among collectors and savvy shoppers alike.
Choosing the perfect Hermès bag isn’t just about design or prestige — it’s also about how well it fits into your life. Below is a guide to help you match each model to your daily routine and personal style.
Rather than asking which is the right bag, focus on what fits you right now. That’s the best way to avoid buyer’s remorse.
Even if you’re ready to buy, the truth is: you usually can’t just walk into a store and pick up a Birkin or Kelly. These highly coveted bags require a bit of strategy — whether through official boutiques or the resale market.
Purchasing directly from Hermès often comes down to timing and relationship. The Birkin and Kelly are rarely displayed in stores.
Typically, a sales associate will "offer" a bag to select customers based on internal criteria.
You may have heard of the “30-minute rule” — the idea that Hermès staff evaluate your interest and demeanor within 30 minutes of entering the store. While not officially confirmed, many seasoned shoppers believe that past purchase history, communication, and attitude play a major role.
Tips to increase your chances:
If boutique shopping feels too uncertain or time-consuming, the resale market is an increasingly popular option. You can often find specific colors and sizes that would be difficult to obtain directly — sometimes even faster.
Things to look for when buying secondhand:
If boutique shopping feels too uncertain or time-consuming, the resale market is an increasingly popular option. You can often find specific colors and sizes that would be difficult to obtain directly — sometimes even faster.
Things to look for when buying secondhand:
▶︎ Browse Birkin & Kelly Bags at XIAOMA
Whether you pick a Birkin or a Kelly, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime purchase — one you’ll likely remember forever. That’s why it’s less about which one is better, and more about which one fits your life today.
Here’s how to approach your decision:
Finding the perfect Hermès bag is a journey in itself — part of the true joy of choosing such an iconic piece. If you’re still undecided or unsure which model suits you best, we highly recommend visiting a trusted specialty store to see the bags in person. Experiencing the texture, weight, and elegant presence firsthand can help reveal the one that truly speaks to you.
At XIAOMA, a Hermès specialty retailer, we offer a wide selection of Birkin and Kelly bags. Feel free to try them on, check yourself in the mirror, and discover the model that fits you perfectly.
Here, we answer some of the most common questions about Birkin and Kelly bags. From simple curiosities like “Which one is more popular?” or “Which one is more expensive?” to important points about buying from official stores and their investment value, this Q&A covers what anyone considering their first Hermès bag should know.
Both bags have a loyal following, but recently, smaller sizes like the Birkin 25 and Kelly 25 have seen growing demand. The Kelly’s versatility—working well for both casual and formal occasions—has made it slightly more popular in recent trends.
Prices vary depending on the model, size, and material, but generally, Birkins tend to be priced higher both at retail and on the resale market. The Birkin 25, in particular, often commands a premium and can sell for over 2 million yen (around $18,000) even when unused.
From an investment perspective, both the Birkin 25 and Kelly 25 are highly sought after. Due to market demand and rarity, both are likely to appreciate in value. However, the Kelly’s compact size and ease of use may lead to even greater popularity in the future.
While it’s possible to purchase both, availability depends heavily on stock and timing. It’s rare to immediately find your desired model. The Birkin, especially, is harder to get and may depend on your purchase history and relationship with store staff.
Hermès does not officially disclose sales policies, but many buyers share these helpful tips:
Because these bags rarely sell immediately, cultivating a long-term relationship with the store is key.
