H
ermès
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ags
pre-owned
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brand new
While others build relationships with the Hermès SA and invest in impressive pre-spends, we direct our focus on what you can have right now. The most unique Hermès masterpieces, sourced by the most trusted worldwide authentic luxury resellers, curated by our stylists in your one-stop destination for luxury fashion shopping.
Where to buy authentic pre-owned Hermes bags
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OUR SELECTION OF PRE-OWNED AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS MINI KELLY
The holy grail of investment bags, mini Kelly is the most sought-after luxury bag model one can name. Thanks to its elegant shape and delicate size, this iconic Hermès handbag is ideal for glamorous nights and equally suitable for daytime with its so ever-attractive color palette. Once you have experienced the ultimate joy of acquiring a mini Kelly, odds are you are hooked for life. So whether it's your celebratory first time buying a mini Kelly or a long-awaited addition to your collection, here is crème de la crème available for you to purchase without any unnecessary stress. Our stylists selected the best of what our trusted partners currently offer. As for styling advice, when choosing a mini Kelly for evening occasions, we suggest matching the color of the mini Kelly hardware to your fine jewelry: palladium hardware for jewelry in white gold and gold hardware for jewellery in yellow gold. When wearing a dress, carrying your mini handbag instead of using a strap makes your Kelly look even more chic. Despite being so minor, these small details together make quite a difference.
OUR SELECTION OF RESELL AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS KELLY 25
Kelly 25 is what we call a true win-win situation. Much more practical than its strictly aesthetic sister, Mini Kelly, Kelly 25 will actually fit your belongings and won't ask for sacrifices, such as choosing whether to bring your lipstick or keys. Taking it on a night out, Kelly 25 will bring you much-needed comfort; while wearing it during the daytime, this bag will surely add that chic touch of femininity with its elegant size. There is something so ever attractive about this particular model that plays equally well for both day and night. Keep in mind that when it comes to small bags, hardware is an essential part of the bag's appearance. So while deciding between Togo, Chevre, and Epsom leathers, make sure to pay equal attention to the color of your Kelly's hardware. As for occasions, carry your Kelly 25 by its handle in the evening and use a strap for the daytime for a more casual look.
OUR SELECTION OF PRE-OWNED AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS KELLY 28
While only 3cm away from its smaller sister, Kelly 28 welcomes you to the elite of daytime bags. Not meant for dinner plans, this bag is destined to see the sunlight and will surely steal the spotlight. This bag is perfect for those who like maneuvering practicality and style simultaneously. Its delicate size makes Kelly 28 perfect for feminine dresses and elegant skirts. Consider it the most elevated daytime bag, just big enough to fit your crucial daytime necessities with a perfect-length shoulder strap. Styling your handbag, Kelly 28 has an ideal size for decorating a handle with a twilly. You will see how switching various twilly designs not only makes the handle look more chic but brings a whole new vibe to your Hermès handbag.
OUR SELECTION OF PRE-LOVED AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS KELLY 32
When it comes to large-size bags, it is hard to find something more elegant, chic, and classy than Kelly 32. This bag is a rare case of lux style matched with practicality. Your iPad, both pairs of glasses (reading and sunnies), notepads, a couple of lipsticks, and car keys - can all fit in Kelly 32. However, for the sake of leather maintenance, make sure you are a tidy packer. And as far as style goes, Kelly 32 somehow ends up seamlessly fitting in every woman's wardrobe: from a classy minimalist (what we at LFA call Matcha Minimalist) to a flirty It Girl, and from classy Birkin Mom to bossy City Girl. It really is just a matter of color, leather type, and hardware. There is also something particularly charming about the vintage Kelly 32 handbags. These vintage Hermès treasures come with significantly lower price tags yet still translate chic and sophistication.
One thing worth mentioning is that while Kelly 32 comes with a strap, it might look a bit too bulky. Therefore we suggest carrying your handbag by its handle for a classier look.
OUR SELECTION OF PRE-OWNED AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS BIRKIN 25
There was a time when Birkin was far from the radar of It Girls and stylish fashionistas. Instead, it was the ultimate status piece for career-driven women less likely to be interested in fashion. While the status aspect has not changed, and Birkin still directly represents your financial success, the fashion world has finally caught up with the Hermès game. Nowadays, it is hard to find a fashion girlie who wouldn't have one of the two: a shelf dedicated to her collection of Birkins in various sizes or a mood board manifesting that same shelf. Today, Birkin speaks not only about your career accomplishments but also reflects your personality. We tend to choose a Birkin based on our style and how we carry the Hermès phenomenon. So when it comes to Birkin 25, we suggest it to the aesthetic-driven, elegant ladies with a soft spot for miniature luxury bags. While we suggest never basing your choice on the market value and always going for what you truly desire instead, it is fair to point out that Birkin 25 is currently the most sought-after size. Style tip: if you like personalizing your Birkin, we suggest decorating a handbag of this size with charms rather than wrapping a twilly on its handles to avoid making your Birkin look too busy.
OUR SELECTION OF RESELL AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS BIRKIN 30
When it comes to Birkin 30, we, lifetime Hermès appreciators, can't help but think of the early days when mini Kelly wasn't yet the epicenter of Hermès handbags. Today, Birkin 30 is just as desirable as it ever was. However, to us, this size, along with Birkin 35, carries a special meaning - the OG of status bags, the ultimate boss statement - the iconic Hermès bag. This bag is beyond any social media influence. We highly suggest this size to the most loyal Hermès lovers, who are not driven by fashion trends and resell market dynamics. If it is your appreciation of the Maison heritage, the exquisite Hermès craftsmanship, and the long-lasting attachment to the brand you would like to show, Birkin 30 is your bag. As for our trendy it girls, Birkin 30's handles and Twilly are a match made in heaven. So, while the trend of decorating your luxury handbag is going as strong as ever, Birkin 30 gives you a perfect opportunity to go all in on this trend.
OUR SELECTION OF PRE-OWNED AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS BIRKIN 35
For all our career-driven boss ladies, we say Birkin 35 is your life companion. While Birkin itself is the ultimate power statement, this size, in particular, thickens the air with empowerment. In addition to its supreme visual appearance, Birkin 35 is an extremely practical bag that will easily fit everything one needs to carry around. Speaking lawyers' language - Birkin 35 is, without a doubt, a name-partner bag. However, do not limit this size to strictly business affairs. As much as we suggest this bag to our City Girls, we can't help but admire how stylish Birkin 35 looks with a resort wardrobe, from maxi dresses and skirts to silky wide-leg pants. And when it comes to chic airport looks, with its capacity, Birkin 35 is also your ideal travel bag. The hardware on your Birkin can also play a role in the aesthetic you choose. Palladium hardware has somewhat of a stylish masculine touch, while gold hardware keeps it more feminine and chic.
OUR SELECTION OF PRE-LOVED AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS CONSTANCE 18
Constance 18 is arguably the most beloved luxury crossbody one can think of. Its minimalistic silhouette makes it an ideal daytime bag that instantly elevates any casual look. The design of Constance blooms through the Hermès colors and leather types, which make the bag surprisingly versatile style-wise. Far from bulky, Constance 18 can never overwhelm an outfit by pulling too much attention, making it more of a complimenting accessory rather than just a bag. However, its delicate size can only mean one thing - you will need serious maneuvering to fit your most essential necessities. Like any other flap bag, Constance leaves no space for negotiations. In other words - opt for a credit card instead of a wallet, and your sunnies will do better staying on your head at all times because the case for sunglasses most likely won't happen. With that being said, crossbody bags are not made for heavy lifting; they are made for admiring. And as far as our stylist opinion goes, Constance 18 is worth every bit of admiring.
OUR SELECTION OF PRE-OWNED AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS CONSTANCE 24
In terms of use and practicality, Constance 24 shares little in common with its smaller sister, Constance 18. Firstly, this size appears much nicer as a shoulder bag rather than a crossbody, and when it comes to fitting your necessary belongings - there won't be any troubles. While this bag seems less playful, some may call it an arguably more reliable handbag: less flirtatious and more solid aesthetically and practically. So keep in mind that while in some cases, the difference in handbag model sizes carries only practical matter, here, the size also changes the style appeal significantly, switching it from a stylish accessory to a practical bag. However, if you are still seeking a bit of fun personalization, we suggest choosing a Constance with colorful hardware. This detail serves as a stylish accessory to your iconic shoulder bag.
If you prefer a more subtle style, contrast stitching with either gold or palladium hardware elegantly highlights the silhouette of this iconic bag. Both Constance in Gold Epsom with palladium hardware and contrast stitching and Constance in Etoupe Epsom with gold hardware and contrast stitching are perfect examples of how these minor details can affect the style of the handbag.
OUR SELECTION OF PRE-LOVED AND BRAND-NEW HERMÈS EXOTIC AND LIMITED BAGS
Let's be honest, when it comes to Hermès exotic leathers and limited editions, it's a game for emotionally strong ones. Talking budgets, regardless of whether you buy from Hermès directly or turn to resellers, this purchase will be pricey. It is fair to point out that the price of exotic and limited edition Hermès bags multiply once they reach the resell market. However, keep in mind that Hermès tends to offer these highly desired handbags to its most loyal and favorable clients, in other words, to those with the highest pre-spend. This means that one way or another, the journey to the most precious Hermès bags lies through generous spending. Perhaps the only difference here is that when "overpaying" for a resell bag, you are the one choosing instead of hoping to be chosen by the Hermès SA. While the choice is strictly personal, and each has pros and cons, we see buying an exotic or limited Hermès handbag on the resell market as a more direct and conventional way of shopping. So, if you are browsing for a crocodile Hermès bag, you came to the right place.
HERMÈS POCKETBOOKS
If starting grand is not your goal, we suggest beginning your H journey with Hermès pocketbooks. Much easier to purchase at the store and with a large variety on the online resale market, Hermès wallets and purses also come in models of the iconic handbags, such as Kelly (yes, just like with the handbag, you can choose between the gold and palladium hardware) and Constance. Made out of signature Hermès leathers, such as Togo, Epsom, and Clemence, these smaller H treasures could also be considered quite a safe fashion investment. Hermès pocketbooks are a classic statement that never goes out of style and tends to keep its value surprisingly well (evening increasing at times).
Hermès Bags Q & A
Which Hermès bags hold their value?
If you are willing to purchase an Hermès bag with the possibility of reselling it later, we suggest focusing on the quota bags only, as they tend to hold their value firm. Opt for the holly trinity of Hermès handbags, such as Birkin, Kelly, and Constance, which pretty much keeps your money secured.
What makes Hermès bags a worthwhile investment?
Hermès bags are rightfully considered to be the best luxury fashion investment one can think of. Today, these handbags are being sold at some of the most prestigious auctions, such as Christie's and Sotheby's, among artwork, bringing Hermès bags to the level of collectible pieces.
However, when buying a Birkin or Kelly as an investment piece, there are a few things worth considering; these are just a few tips:
- Kelly Retourne in Chevre leather has a lower resell value than a Kelly Sellier
- Mini Kelly currently has the highest resell value
- Birkin 25 currently holds the highest resell value among all Birkin sizes (except for the limited 20cm ones)
- The value of Hermès exotic leather grows more than double on the resell market
- Losing the original accessories, like the Hermès key, lock, shoulder strap, or clochette, may significantly decrease the resale price of your luxury handbag, no matter the style
- Monotone Hermès handbags are easier to resell than the ones in multiple colors
How to keep your Hermès Birkin bag like new?
- Protect the interior of the handbag as much as the exterior
- Invest in an insert to protect the interior. Putting an insert into your Birkin will protect the leather from marks and leaks.
- Invest in a bag pillow to protect the shape of your Birkin and Kelly (especially in Chevre leather), and avoid leather creasing
- Protect your handbag's hardware from contact with accessories from rigid materials, like a key, phone, and other accessories, to avoid scratching.
- Keep your Birkin key in the clochette
- Protect your Birkin handles by accessorizing each handle with a twilly
- Allow the leather to breathe
- Store your handbag away from the sun
Knowing Hermès leather types is very handy when preserving your bag. Learn about the most popular Hermès leathers, like Togo, Clemence, Epsom, Box Calf, and Chevre, by reading our article on how to take care of your Hermès bag.
Can I walk in Hermès and buy a bag?
You can buy a non-quota bag by walking into Hermès boutique. However, purchasing the popular and most important Hermès handbags that hold their value or grow in price, which are Birkin, Kelly, and Constance, is, with some exceptions, nearly impossible.
How can I determine the authenticity of a pre-owned Hermès bag?
Buying a pre-owned Hermès bag, we suggest trusting the authentication process to the professionals. Turning to trusted luxury resellers, such as Fashionphile, TheRealReal, Rebag, The Luxury Closet, Farfetch, and others, provides you with an additional sense of security, as every bag they sell is authenticated by the luxury experts and comes with an authenticity guarantee.
As for an independent check, here are some details to focus on:
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leather quality (especially leather stitching)
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hardware condition (a counterfeit item often comes with scratched hardware in visibly poor quality)
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hardware color (check if this handbag, in particular leather, comes with palladium or gold hardware or if both options are available).
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the hardware tone is often odd on a fake Hermès handbag (gold hardware might be too yellow, while palladium hardware might look too grey.)
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the size, color, and condition of the Hermès lock
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the leather and stitching quality on the clochette where the Hermès key goes in
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the inconsistent stitching on the handle often gives away a counterfeit
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get familiar with Hermès leather types and learn which leather types are used for particular handbag models
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familiarizing Hermès leather by touch helps distinguish an authentic Hermès handbag from a fake one
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poor stitching quality on Hermès counterfeit is a common tip
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the correct size of your Hermès handbag is the most basic check that should be performed first
Who can help me buy the rarest and most limited Hermès bags?
If you want your Hermès bag collection to be not just extensive but truly impressive, then investing in limited and rare Hermès bags is the right choice. While sometimes you might get lucky to come across a desirable limited bag online, it is important to have your network of personal shoppers sourcing your finest Hermès bags offline and on the go. The hunt for crème de la crème can be time consuming. Therefore, Le Fashion Artiste offers an army of luxury experts to build your dream collection. Contact us to know how we can do the job for you.
Which Hermès bag is more practical, Kelly or Birkin?
Both Kelly and Birkin models come in various sizes, which helps you tailor the handbag to your lifestyle. However, a shoulder strap might be essential to a handbag's practicality. Therefore, it is important to remember that Birkin doesn't have a strap, regardless of size. All Kelly bags, on the contrary, come with a shoulder strap in addition to the handle. The length of the Kelly strap varies from 70 cm, 85 cm, 105cm, and 120 cm.
If you prioritize a shoulder bag or crossbody as a practical bag, we also suggest looking into Constance 24, which can serve as both, depending on how you adjust its shoulder strap.
Another factor indicating practicality for Birkin and Kelly is the leather type. Here are just a few factors worth considering when thinking of practicality of your Hermès investment:
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Hermès Chevre leather is scratch-resistant, making it much less stressful to carry around.
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Boxcalf leather holds its shape superbly (this is why vintage Sellier Kelly bags in boxcalf leather have such a fresh look). However, keep your Hermès bag in boxcalf away from rain, as it will blister.
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Birkin in Togo leather is exceptionally soft, so it is very easy to maneuver the items you need to fit in the handbag. However, don't overpack your Togo Birkin, as it might lose shape.
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Epsom is another scratch-resistant Hermès leather that holds its structure well and is relatively easy to care for. However, Epsom leather is quite stiff, so it significantly affects how much you can pack in your bag. You can see the difference by comparing Birkin 25 in Togo leather and Birkin 25 in Epsom. Togo leather has much more flexibility; you can wear the Birkin's sides out, allowing more space for items to fit in. Epsom leather prioritizes the bag's structure, meaning fewer items can fit.
Can I hire someone to find collectible Hermès bags for me?
Hiring a luxury expert to help you find a rare collectible Hermès bag increases your chances of buying the most sought-after handbag without having to wait at the Hermès store. Depending on the specific handbag you are searching for, you might need different experts. Contact us so we can lead you in the right direction.
Is it safe to buy a pre-owned Birkin from Farfetch?
While Farfetch is known for curating trending fashion, this luxury e-commerce platform also carries an impressive variety of pre-owned luxury bags. While some may still be surprised that Farfetch sells authentic Hermès bags, others have already been taking advantage of its impressive resell rotation. Partnerships with many private luxury resellers give Farfetch access to some of the most difficult-to-find limited Hermès bags. If you need additional reassurance, simply contact Farfetch through customer support to learn more about the private seller and request authenticity confirmation.
Are Sotheby's and Christie's the best auctions to buy Hermès bags?
While Sotheby's and Christie's auctions are great options for purchasing quota Hermès bags like Birkin, Kelly, Constance, or even Picotin, there are no reasons to limit your search there. Today, resell Hermès bags, both pre-loved and brand-new, are available in the comfort of online shopping. However, we suggest turning to luxury resellers who provide authenticity certificates when buying online. ReBag, TheRealReal, The Luxury Closet, Farfetch, and Fashionphile are great places to start your search.
Why women carry their Birkins open?
Whether you prefer carrying your Birkin open or closed is simply a matter of personal style. Many Birkin owners keep their handbags open, which seems like a delicate oddity to the ultimate muse and Birkin co-designer Jane Birkin, who often overstuffed her bag and gave it a much more practical purpose than today's investment approach. Keeping your Birkin open gives an effortless touch, which goes in stylish contrast with the intimidating status and value of the handbag.
However, keeping your Birkin's flap closed better demonstrates impeccable craftsmanship, focusing on details like the color of stitching, the Hermès lock, and the clochette.
For many, the color of your Birkin's hardware stands for personal style reflection. The good news is that if you want to demonstrate whether you are a bossy palladium hardware kinda gal or a glamorous gold hardware lady, keeping your Birkin shut or open doesn't change the visibility of the hardware. Some may even say that Birkin's hardware is more visible in the open style. However, when keeping your bag closed, the Hermès lock makes an elegant duo to the hardware closure.
Can I hire a Personal Shopper who specializes in rare Hermès bags?
While every Personal Shopper's expertise might differ, a Personal Shopper who specifies in sourcing resell Hermès bags (pre-owned and brand-new) is typically the best person to turn to. In addition to finding your dream bag, they often can also look for the best prices available, saving you not only time but also your budget. To speak with a Personal Shopper specializing in Hermès, contact us by leaving a message in the chat.
What fashion style does Hermès Birkin suit?
Perhaps one of the biggest things that makes Birkin such an iconic handbag is its unmatched style-versatility. From the rapper with a very extravagant style, Cardi B, with her impressive collection of Birkin bags in various colors and exotic leathers that would leave even the most impartial jealous, to the former American First Lady Melania Trump, spotted by the New York Post carrying her white Hermès Birkin (Birkin 40, if we had to take a guess) with palladium hardware. Melania Trump was giving "elegant casual" with her all-white look.
So, from daring extravaganza to neutral elegance, Hermès Birkin somehow makes a perfect match to all.