The Kelly Bag, synonymous with Hermès, continues to captivate many with its refined silhouette and elegant presence.
These are just a few of the many key factors that play a role in choosing the perfect Kelly.
In this article, we will guide you through the enchanting world of the Kelly Bag. By exploring the sizes, materials, and features of each Kelly series in detail, we aim to support you in finding the Kelly Bag that perfectly matches your needs.
Before choosing the size of the Kelly bag, let's take a moment to review the history behind this iconic bag. The Kelly bag was first introduced in the 1930s under the name "Sac à Dépêches," marking a successful foray into the fashion world by Hermès, which originally specialized in equestrian goods. However, the turning point that truly propelled the Kelly bag to fame came in the 1950s when Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco was photographed using the bag to conceal her pregnancy. The image quickly spread around the world. In honor of this moment and as a tribute to Princess Kelly, Hermès officially renamed the bag "Kelly."
Since then, the Kelly bag, along with the Birkin bag, has become a classic symbol of Hermès, solidifying its place in the brand's history. For the designers of Hermès, the Kelly bag is like an eternal source of inspiration. They continually draw ideas from the Kelly bag to create various derivatives, which are collectively known as the "Kelly family." These collections maintain the original bag's timeless charm while offering more diverse options to meet different needs and occasions. Whether for everyday use or formal events, the Kelly family always offers the perfect bag.
The Kelly bag, with its unique design and structure, stands out as a timeless classic among many other bags.
※ The following details focus on the Kelly 25 as an example to explain the core elements of the Kelly bag's construction.
 | Trapezoidal Shape：One of the most striking features of the Kelly bag is its elegant trapezoidal silhouette. The bag tapers from a wide base to a narrower top, creating smooth, flowing lines that exude an air of sophistication and grace. |
 | Bottom Studs：The bottom of the Kelly Bag features four metal feet studs, preventing the bag from coming into direct contact with surfaces when placed down. This helps to protect it from dirt and wear, thereby extending its lifespan. |
 | Strap Closure：The Kelly bag features a leather strap with a metal clasp that secures the bag’s body and flap. It not only enhances the bag's refinement but also provides stable closure. |
_463.png) | Padlock (Cadena) and Key Holder (Clochette)：The Cadena is a small lock on the strap, while the Clochette is a leather key pouch that holds the two keys for the lock. These two elements are iconic details of the Kelly bag. |
 | Shoulder Strap：The Kelly bag comes with a shoulder strap, adding versatility to its use. It can be carried by hand, worn on the shoulder, or as a crossbody, meeting a variety of practical needs. |
 | Storage Capacity：The Kelly 25, while maintaining its elegant shape, offers excellent storage capacity. It allows for careful organization of both valuable and smaller items, enhancing its functional appeal. |
 | Side Gussets：The gusset on the Kelly 25 adds both aesthetic and structural value. They provide stability while preserving the bag’s minimalist appearance, perfectly blending design and functionality — a characteristic of Hermès craftsmanship. |
When discussing the Kelly bag, the stitching method is an important feature that cannot be overlooked. The Kelly bag is made using two types of stitching: Sellier (outside stitching) and Retourne (inside stitching).
| Sellier（Kelly 25） | Retourne（Kelly 25） |
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The different construction techniques lend the Kelly bag a diverse range of looks, each showcasing a unique and charming style.
The Kelly bag is not only beautiful but also highly functional. The four studs on the bottom of the bag prevents it from touching the ground, reducing the chances of dirt and damage. Additionally, the bag comes with a shoulder strap, offering a 2-way design that allows it to be carried both by hand and over the shoulder. This is particularly popular with smaller versions like the Mini Kelly. The Kelly bag stands as a perfect example of a Hermès masterpiece perfectly blending beauty with functionality.
The Kelly bag comes in a range of sizes, allowing you to choose based on personal needs and preferences. From the charming Mini Mini Kelly to the fabulous Kelly Voyage, each size offers its own unique appeal.
Below, we introduce the Kelly bag’s size range, its practicality, and ideal use occasions to help you find the perfect Kelly bag for your lifestyle.
(Note: The dimensions may vary slightly depending on the stitching type, such as outside or inside stitching, or cases such as when there is an interior pocket.
| Kelly Bag Series | Size |
| Kelly 15 (Mini Mini Kelly) | W15cm × H11cm × D5cm |
| Kelly 20 (Mini Kelly) | W20cm × H15cm × D9cm |
| Mini Kelly 2 (Mini Kelly Deux) | W19cm × H12.5cm × D5.5cm |
| Kelly 25 | W25cm × H18cm × D9.5cm |
| Kelly 28 | W28cm × H22cm × D10cm |
| Kelly 32 | W32cm × H22cm × D11.5cm |
| Kelly 35 | W35cm × H25cm × D12cm |
| Kelly 40 | W40cm × H30cm × D20cm |
| Kelly 50 (Kelly Voyage) | W50cm × H33cm × D25cm |
Introduced in 2016 amid the mini bag trend, the Mini Mini Kelly (Kelly 15) is one of the smallest versions of the Kelly bag. With its adorable size and strong presence, it continues to captivate attention.
At around 15 cm wide, it’s about the size of the palm of your hand. While it cannot fit larger smartphones, it can easily hold small items like lipstick, a small wallet, and keys, making it perfect for parties or evening events, where it adds a striking touch to formal attire.
The Mini Mini Kelly is adored by Hermès fans, and its rarity makes it a coveted, almost dream-like item.
▶︎Explore the Kelly 15 (Mini Mini Kelly) here
The Kelly 20, also known as the Mini Kelly, is slightly larger than the Mini Mini Kelly but still a refined, charming small bag.
This size is more suitable for everyday use while still functioning as a statement accessory for special occasions like weddings or parties.
The Mini Kelly can easily fit a smartphone, cardholder, and lipstick—ideal for carrying daily essentials. Its lightweight design ensures that it won’t become burdensome, even with extended wear.
▶︎Explore the Kelly 20 (Mini Kelly) here
Launched in 2016, the Mini Kelly Deux is an upgraded version of the classic Mini Kelly.
Size Comparison between Mini Kelly and Mini Kelly Deux:
| Kelly 20 (Mini Kelly) | Mini Kelly 2 (Mini Kelly Deux) |
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The key difference between the Mini Kelly and Mini Kelly Deux is the removal of the gusset, making the Mini Kelly Deux flatter in design.
| Kelly 20 (Mini Kelly) | Mini Kelly 2 (Mini Kelly Deux) |
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If you prefer a minimalist style, the Mini Kelly Deux is the perfect choice. However, if you want a balance between storage space and design, the Mini Kelly (Kelly 20) might be a better fit.
Both versions are incredibly popular and are considered hard-to-find, coveted items.
▶︎Explore the Mini Kelly 2 (Mini Kelly Deux) here
The Kelly 25, though compact, offers excellent storage capacity. It is one of the most beloved sizes among Hermès customers in Japan.
This size easily accommodates a 500ml water bottle, a long wallet, and a smartphone, all while maintaining the graceful shape of the Kelly bag. Whether for daily use or formal occasions, the Kelly 25 is versatile and can seamlessly fit into any lifestyle.
This is a highly popular classic size, slightly larger than the Kelly 25.
It can easily accommodate a 500ml plastic bottle and hold items like a long wallet, a folding umbrella, and a small tablet.
It is ideal for daily use, including business occasions, and showcases the iconic trapezoidal shape of the Kelly bag.
It is recommended for those looking for a versatile Kelly Bag for everyday use.
This is a medium-sized bag with a practical capacity, able to fit A4 documents and a 13-inch laptop, making it perfect for business settings.
It can handle everything from daily use to short business trips with ease.
We recommend it for busy professionals who need to carry more items.
This is a large-sized bag with an elegant silhouette and generous capacity.
It can easily fit a 15-inch laptop, folders, cosmetics, and other daily essentials, making it perfect for weekend getaways or short trips.
It is also an ideal choice for those who need to carry more items on a daily basis.
This spacious bag is suitable as a travel bag, able to hold clothes and personal items for a 1- to 2-night trip.
Despite its large capacity, it retains the elegant characteristics of the Kelly bag and is perfect for business trips or weekend escapes.
Recommended for those who love to travel or frequently go on business trips.
This is the largest size in the Kelly bag series, with a capacity comparable to a small suitcase, capable of holding the belongings needed for long-distance travel.
It is ideal for special occasions and is favored for its strong presence and ample storage.
Its impressive size and storage capacity makes this bag particularly popular among those in need of a large bag and also Hermès collectors.
The elegant design of the Kelly bag, combined with diverse material options, makes this bag model suitable for a variety of occasions.
Each material has its own unique texture and characteristics, which influences the overall style of the bag.
Below, we will introduce several representative materials commonly used for Kelly bags and explore the unique qualities of each material and the occasions they are best suited for.
| Material Name | Characteristics | Recommended Use |
Taurillon Clémence_トリヨン_132.png) | Soft and supple, resistant to scratches | Ideal for casual settings and everyday use |
Togo | Durable, scratch-resistant, textured surface | Suitable for both formal and everyday use |
Epsom | Stiff and resistant to deformation, with a slight sheen | Perfect for business and formal occasions |
Box Calf | Smooth with a glossy finish, exuding a classic feel | Great for elegant parties and special events |
Swift_スイフト_802.png) | Extremely soft and flexible, with a subtle sheen | Fits well in both everyday and elegant settings |
Exotic Leather_クロコダイル ニロティカス_387.png) | Rare materials with bold character and luxury appeal | Best for special events and occasions where you want to stand out |
Kelly bags made from Taurillon Clémence leather are known for their soft and supple texture. This leather features prominent large-grain patterns, which become more supple with time and use.
The combination of the Kelly bag’s rounded silhouette with the softness of Clemence leather creates an elegant yet casual look. Its resistance to scratches makes it a perfect worry-free option for everyday use.
This material is particularly suitable for daily and casual occasions, blending seamlessly with any outfit.
▶︎Explore Kelly Bags in Taurillon Clemence here
Kelly bags made from Togo leather are characterized by their durability and flexibility, with a particularly sturdy and scratch-resistant texture. Togo is slightly firmer than Taurillon Clémence, its distinct grain provides the bag with a noble and substantial feel.
Togo is resistant to deformation, maintaining its beautiful shape over time, ensuring the bag always looks as good as new.
It is ideal for daily use, business, or formal occasions, making it a practical choice that works well for both work and leisure.
▶︎Explore Kelly Bags in Togo leather here
Epsom leather Kelly bags are known for their firmer texture, which resists deformation and has a glossy finish, giving them a refined and polished appearance.
The lightweight and durable Epsom leather makes the bag stable and comfortable to carry for extended periods without feeling heavy.
This material is especially suited for formal or business occasions and complements a sophisticated, polished wardrobe.
▶︎Explore Kelly Bags in Epsom leather here
Kelly bags made from Box Calf leather exude a classic and elegant aura. The smooth leather surface has a captivating shine, adding a unique presence for special occasions.
However, this leather is quite delicate and prone to scratches, requiring careful handling.
Box Calf is ideal for formal events and special occasions. It is the perfect choice for enhancing evening wear or elegant outfits.
▶︎Explore Kelly Bags in Box Calf leather here
Kelly bags made from Swift leather have a soft, smooth texture and a natural shine, creating an elegant impression. As the bag is used over time, the leather becomes even softer, molding to the shape of your hand.
Swift leather offers a supple and smooth feel, with a gentle luster that enhances the overall elegance of the bag.
While it requires careful handling due to its smooth surface, Swift is perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance to both everyday and special settings.
▶︎Explore Kelly Bags in Swift leather here
Kelly bags crafted from rare exotic leathers, such as alligator and lizard skins, showcase a strong personality and offer an unmatched luxurious texture.
These bags are rare and provide their owners with a unique presence.
They are especially suited as a statement piece for important events or occasions where attention is desired, with their symbolism and uniqueness shining brightly in luxurious settings.
▶︎Explore Kelly Bags in Exotic Leather here
The Kelly bag has evolved into a diverse series, expanding on its classic design to meet various needs and preferences.
The Kelly Doll was released by Hermès in 2000 to celebrate the millennium. This limited edition bag attracted global attention with its unique design. The bag retains the iconic Kelly shape but adds eyes, a nose, a mouth, and limbs, making it compact (19×12 cm) yet full of playful personality.
Although the Kelly Doll became globally popular, it is extremely rare due to its limited release, making it difficult to acquire. However, it occasionally reappears during the opening of new Hermès stores or as a special order exclusive to VIP clients. Given its rarity, be sure to check it out if you ever come across one.
The Kelly Pochette is a more compact version of the classic Kelly bag. It features a retractable handle and a thin gusset, allowing it to be used both as a handbag and a clutch.
Its compact form brings a sleek, refined look, making it increasingly popular, especially among younger women. It is the perfect accessory for parties or as a lightweight second bag for everyday use.
Additionally, the Tiny Kelly, inspired by the Kelly Pochette, is a more petite version, measuring just 14 cm, smaller than the Mini Kelly, and offering a unique design style. This series also includes smaller, striking designs like "Kelly Wood" made from materials like Barenia or Bog Oak.
▶︎Explore the Kelly Pochette here
With the growing trend of mini bags, have you ever felt, "I just can't fit everything I need"? Or been dissatisfied with the functionality of mini bags? To address these, Hermès introduced the Kelly Lakis in 2004.
▶︎Kelly Lakis - Hermès' New Challenge
This bag was created at the special request of Hermès collector and client, Lakis Gavalas. The Kelly Lakis retains the classic elegance of the Kelly bag while enhancing its functionality. It features two zippered pockets on the front and multiple internal pockets, showcasing excellent practicality and storage capacity. It not only maintains the classic design but also creates a more relaxed vibe, which is part of its charm.
Hermès has a variety of bags within the "Kelly family," and one of the reasons for its creation was Jean-Paul Gaultier’s deep admiration for the Kelly bag design.
Gaultier designed many Kelly family bags as well as other Hermès products, some of which have since been discontinued, with the Kelly Flat being one of them.
The Kelly Flat has the same dimensions and shape as the standard Kelly bag, but its key difference lies in the buckle design. It uses a long leather strap made from soft materials, allowing the bag to fold and be carried like a clutch.
Although it has been discontinued, the Kelly Flat’s innovative style is still highly praised by Hermès enthusiasts.
Similar to the Kelly Flat, the Kelly Danse was also created by Hermès designer Jean-Paul Gaultier as a shoulder bag. Compared to the standard Kelly bag, the Kelly Danse is lighter and easier to carry, which is one of its main features.
However, the Kelly Danse offers much more than just portability. The bag can be used in several flexible ways:
This bag was first introduced in 2008 and quickly gained popularity among Hermès enthusiasts, though it was temporarily discontinued. In 2019, the Kelly Danse was re-released, further boosting its popularity. Among the multifunctional bags of the Kelly family, the Kelly Danse stands out as a particularly unique creation.
▶︎Explore the Kelly Danse here
Following the Kelly Flat and Kelly Danse, Jean-Paul Gaultier introduced a new creative twist into the Kelly bag with the creation of the Shoulder Kelly.
This bag features a horizontally extended design compared to the standard Kelly, with a longer handle that makes it easier to carry like a tote bag. It offers excellent storage capacity, making it perfect for daily use.
In the Shoulder Kelly, the elegant Kelly bag design takes on a more relaxed style. Although this bag has been discontinued, its popularity remains strong, and it continues to be adored by many fans.
▶︎ Explore the Shoulder Kelly here
While the Kelly bag is known for its elegant and refined image, Hermès also offers more casual variations within the Kelly family. One of these is the Kelly Sport.
The Kelly Sport, as a casual version of the Kelly bag, combines fashion with practicality. Although it is no longer in production, it remains popular in the second-hand market.
At first glance, the Kelly Ado may be confused with the Kelly Sport, but while the Kelly Sport is a shoulder bag, the Kelly Ado is a backpack with shoulder straps on the back. This bag combines the casual style of a backpack with the elegant aura of the Kelly bag, offering both fashion and practicality.
Though the Kelly Ado was once discontinued, it was reintroduced in 2018 due to the enthusiastic support of Hermès fans worldwide, and its popularity continues to rise.
Among the Kelly family, there are some designs that break away from the traditional concept of a handbag, and the So Kelly is one such example.
While the standard Kelly bag is known for its trapezoidal shape and elegant image, the So Kelly adopts a vertical design, resembling a bucket bag, and is worn as a shoulder bag. The So Kelly debuted in the Fall/Winter 2008 collection and quickly gained attention for its design that blends casual style with practicality.
This bag is lightweight and easy to carry, with excellent storage capacity, making it perfect for daily use. Although it has been discontinued, its rarity makes it highly sought after in the second-hand market.
If you are looking for a stylish and unique Kelly bag, the So Kelly is definitely worth considering.
The Kelly family of bags blends elegance with casual style, excelling both in everyday use and during travel. In the business world, the Kelly bag also shines, with the Kelly Dépêches being a standout example.
The Kelly Dépêches is a business bag that combines practicality with elegance, making it a perfect match for office attire. Its refined design and excellent storage capacity make it an extremely practical work bag.
The bag has been redesigned in recent years, further enhancing its appeal. For business professionals who seek a stylish yet functional option, the Kelly Dépêches is an ideal choice that shouldn’t be missed.
▶︎Explore the Kelly Dépêches here
The Kelly Picnic is inspired by the traditional picnic basket, offering a relaxed and whimsical style. Its distinctive feature is the combination of wicker and leather, which not only makes it lightweight and easy to carry but also perfectly suits the casual outfits of spring and summer.
This bag is a perfect companion for picnics and outdoor activities, and it can also add a fashionable touch to city-style outfits. As a seasonal piece, the Kelly Picnic is highly coveted by collectors. Since it has been discontinued, it commands high prices in the second-hand market, making it a rare and valuable item.
▶︎Explore the Kelly Picnic here
The Kelly Ghillies draws inspiration from the traditional Scottish "Ghillie" shoes, known for their woven design and perforated lacing. This bag incorporates these elements, offering a unique combination of classic style and playful detailing.
The Kelly Ghillies is a fine example of Hermès craftsmanship and is particularly suited for those who seek both luxury and individuality. It reflects the brand's commitment to high-quality, artisan techniques.
Introduced in 2018, the Kelly Graphie is an artistic interpretation of the Kelly bag, featuring graphic elements such as the brand's iconic "H" and other design motifs.
While maintaining the traditional elegance of a Kelly bag, the Kelly Graphie appeals to those with an interest in art and design, offering a unique and fashionable option. Due to its limited release, it is highly regarded in the collector’s market, and its resale value remains high.
The Kelly Graphie is ideal for those looking for a bag that combines rarity with artistic flair.
Recommended reading: The Ultimate Guide to the Latest Market Trends and Essential Tips for Selling Hermès Items
The Waffle Kelly is another rare version of the Kelly bag, distinguished by its embossed waffle pattern. This textured surface gives the bag added depth, creating a sharp, modern aesthetic that elevates its minimalist design.
With its bold visual impact, the Waffle Kelly stands out even in everyday use, offering a distinct fashion-forward style. Among the many minimalist designs in the market, the Waffle Kelly provides an excellent option for those seeking a playful and creative design.
Debuted in the Spring/Summer 2013 collection, the Kelly Golf is inspired by the design of golf shoes. This bag integrates sporty elements into the classic Kelly shape, creating a fusion of casual and luxurious style.
Hermès signature craftsmanship is evident in the details, beautifully blending athletic influences with the brand’s elegant ethos. The Kelly Golf is especially suited for those who want to maintain a high-end feel even in a sporty or active style.
First introduced in the Spring/Summer 1996 collection, the Vinyl Kelly was originally a special invitation gift for global VIPs of Hermès.
This bag was initially only available to invited guests at runway shows, but due to high demand, Hermès limited the release of new versions during the "Hermès Fantastical World" exhibitions in 1997 and 1998, making them available exclusively at the event.
Even in the second-hand market, the Vinyl Kelly remains extremely rare, and owning one is a highly prized collector’s item. The Vinyl Kelly showcases Hermès sense of humor and innovative spirit, and some even use it for rainy days or trips to the water.
For more on the story behind the Vinyl Kelly, be sure to check out the article below.
▶︎-Vinyl Kelly- A Special Invitation from Hermès
We have explored the history, characteristics, structure, size variations, and the wide range of series in the Kelly bag collection. With its elegant design and exceptional craftsmanship, the Kelly bag has remained beloved across generations.
From casual to formal occasions, and even more unique designs, the Kelly bag comes in a variety of styles, there’s an ideal match for your personal style preference.
Whether you’re looking to acquire your first Kelly bag or you’re already a collector with multiple pieces, we hope this article will help you find the Kelly bag that best suits your needs. XIAOMA also offers a wide selection of Kelly bags, and we invite you to explore the perfect piece for you.
▶︎Explore the Kelly Bag Collection at XIAOMA here
We hope you’ll find the Kelly bag destined for you.
