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The flap of the Kelly cannot be tucked in and, if the bag is left open, it has an awkward appearance. Note that even though the Kelly is more vertically proportioned than the Birkin, I don’t find it more difficult to find my things in one over the other (and again, if that’s a concern there’s always a bag organizer). The flap pretty much needs to be closed, which is very secure and – unlike the Birkin – the Kelly comes with a shoulder strap, which makes the bag more versatile. With a classic, more elegant (vertical) shape than the Birkin, the Kelly, especially in the smaller sizes, can lean formal, but still works on casual days as well.
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It also comes with a matching shoulder strap (and Hermès also produces other shoulder straps which can be used interchangeably on the Kelly) so that it is not just a hand/arm carry bag like the Birkin but can also be worn on the shoulder, and, with one of the longer straps, cross-body (depending on the bag and strap size). The Kelly, however, is distinguishable in that the flap is structured and cannot be tucked in.
#Kelly 25 hermes zip
It also has the rear zip and slip pockets on the interior.
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A more feminine, top-handle bag which, like the Birkin, also has a flap, sangles and clochette, it has somewhat of a more vertical design, with a base slightly wider than the top. The Kelly, while at times considered less popular than the Birkin, is just as desirable, and in some ways is more functional and elegant. Let’s examine the structure and the pros and cons of each design and size.Įditor’s Note: This is part two of a two-part series, be sure to read part one for an in-depth overview of the Hermès Birkin. While many Hermès collectors wind up buying each style at some point, many have a preference for one over the other. Both designs are produced in a variety of leathers and colors every season. Although both are very popular, each has a different structure, and each has its own milieu of fans. Since we’re talking about Hermès, we’re probably talking about the Birkin and the Kelly (and also the Constance, but that’s a completely different bag which deserves an article of its own!). Either way, you have some important decisions to make when buying a new purse. Or, perhaps you’re a longtime customer, waiting for the latest addition to your wardrobe.
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All exotic Hermès bags are created in strict compliance with CITES.Perhaps you’re new to Hermès bags, hoping you’ll get an offer soon. All Kelly bags are made from the finest leathers like Togo, Chevre, Epsom, and Clemence, while some exotic Kelly bags are made of skins like lizard, ostrich, and crocodile. Hermès Kelly bags are fashioned in two main styles - the Kelly Sellier being the classic, ladylike style, and the more relaxed and casual Kelly Retourne. Discerning collectors enjoy the Kelly Cut and Kelly Pochette as an evening clutch. From there, the sizes range from the 25cm Kelly and the 28cm Kelly - which carry all your essentials for day or evening - to the roomier 32cm Kelly bag and the 35cm Kelly models, which are often used as travel bags in addition to day bags. The smallest of the classic Kelly purses is the Hermès Kelly 20cm, also known as the Mini Kelly II. Over the years, several different sizes, colors, and Hermès VIP or Special Order models have proven popular. The iconic Hermès Kelly bag is instantly recognizable for its trapezoidal shape topped by a single rolled handle. Today, the Kelly bag has become synonymous with elegance, style, and glamour.Įvery Kelly bag is handmade by Hermès artisans using luxurious leathers and palladium or gold-plated hardware. For years, the classic purse was informally known as the Hermès Kelly bag, though it wasn’t until 1977 that the company made the rebranding official. Women all over the world soon clamored for the “ Kelly bag ”. It became an international sensation when legendary beauty and fashion icon Grace Kelly used her favorite Sac à Dépêches to shield her baby bump from the Paparazzi. The iconic Hermès handbag was introduced to the fashion world as the Sac à Dépêches in the 1930s. Long lauded as a statement of timeless and effortless class, the Hermès Kelly bag remains an emblematic piece of modern glamour.
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