There are few luxury bags that are as adequate for traveling as the Hermès Bolide bag. This champion of transatlantic voyages, became an insignia for curious travelers during the early decades of the 20th century, ruling the seas, skies and roads alongside the sophisticated men and women of the time.
However, as years went by, the Hermès Bolide was not left behind with its history, but it remained a staple bag for traveling lovers, while also becoming a chic accessory to complement a great variety of outfits.
Today, we will dive deep into the Hermès Bolide bag, and uncover its intact glory, and its growing fame in the last few decades. Don’t miss out!
- The History of the Hermès Bolide Bag
- Structure and Features
- Bolide Bag Sizes
- Is it worth it to own a Bolide bag?
The History of the Hermès Bolide Bag
It all began in 1916, Émile-Maurice Hermès, grandson of the brand’s founder, visited Henry Ford’s automobile factory in North America, where he was impressed by the zipper mechanism used in convertible car roofs. Inspired, he purchased the prototype and introduced the zipper to France in 1923, incorporating it into Hermès’ leather goods, especially items related to racing and travel.
That same year, Émile-Maurice, a close friend of luxury carmaker Ettore Bugatti, was asked to design a bag for Bugatti’s new Torpedo model. Hermès crafted a bag shaped to fit inside the car door, naming it the Torpedo, but also known as le sac pour l’auto. Years later, Hermès renamed the bag Bugatti, honoring Ettore’s involvement, but the car company sued over the use of their name.
Following the lawsuit and a settlement in 1994, Hermès renamed the bag Bolide, a reference to fast racing cars and comets. The Bolide bag has since become a luxurious staple in the Hermès collection, beloved by enthusiasts worldwide.
Structure and Features
The signature structure for the Bolide bag is oval-shaped, as it was inspired by the Bugatti’s grill. This bag has enough storage space for traveling and casual use, and it is also the first Hermès bag with a zipper, that covers the whole top part of the bag and it provides wide space to store things easily.
The Bolide bag has two “U” shaped handles that sit straight up, allowing you to carry it easily on the crook of your arm. Best of all, the Bolide also features a leather strap that can be worn crossbody or hung from one of your shoulders.
The strap is non-adjustable and it has a standard size, but if it falls too short you can always get a longer strap at Hermès, there are some with colorful designs that can complement your Bolide incredibly well.
It is worth mentioning that the Bolide bag comes in two distinctive styles, such as the Birkin and Kelly bags with the Retoruné and Sellier versions. The Bolide can come in a Mou style, that is a more relaxed and supple version, or the Rigide style, that offers a rigid structure with better resistance and a sturdier feel.
Bolide Bag Sizes
The Bolide bag, as many Hermès handbags, comes in different sizes to adjust to several occasions and needs. Here are the Bolide sizes and their measurements independently of their structure style. Have in mind that the number of the size corresponds to the measurement of the base of the bag in centimeters:
- Bolide 1923 Mini: L 20 cm x H 15 cm x W 8 cm.
- Bolide 1923 Size 25: L 25 cm x H 20 cm x W 11 cm.
- Bolide 27: L 27cm x H 20 cm x W 10 cm.
- Bolide 1923 Size 30: L 30 cm x H 23 cm x W 13 cm.
- Bolide 31: L 31 cm x H 24 cm x W 12 cm.
- Bolide 35: L 35 cm x H 28 cm x W 15 cm.
- Bolide 45: L 45 cm x H 35 cm x W 24 cm.
It must be noted that there are two variations of the Bolide bag. The originally released bag was only named Bolide and included sizes 27, 31, 35 and 45. However, in recent times, Hermès created a new version of the Bolide and called its collection 1923, in honor to the year in which the bag was released. The Bolide 1923 collection features other sizes, such as the Mini Bolide 20, Bolide 25 and Bolide 30.
Is it worth it to own a Bolide bag?
Although it may not have the same mystique and allure as the Kelly or Birkin, the Bolide remains a beloved choice among celebrities and Hermès enthusiasts alike. Praised across the fashion world, the Bolide is admired for its timeless elegance and practical design.
Here are three reasons to love the Bolide:
- A Perfect Travel Companion: Originally inspired by the rise of the automobile, the Bolide was designed for travel. Its thoughtful functionality makes it ideal for road trips or international flights, with the Bolide Secret offering a zippered compartment for essentials like passports and keys.
- Work-Friendly Elegance: Available in multiple sizes, the Bolide is perfectly suited for the professional woman. The larger models, like the 35 and 45, can easily accommodate laptops, notebooks, and other work essentials, making it both stylish and practical.
- Understated Sophistication: Popular in cities like Paris and Tokyo, the Bolide’s simpler design gives it a timeless appeal. Its refined, subtle look is perfect for those who prefer chic elegance without flashy details.
So, are you ready to buy a Bolide bag?
If so, at The Birkin’s & Kelly’s House we have a full online store with all the Bolide bags you’re looking for, with a variety of skins, colors and hardware. Our online store also features many other Hermès handbags, from exclusive to popular.
Best of all, our prices prove to be the best of the resale market, allowing you to get the bag you want for an accessible price, and without waiting lists.
At The Birkin’s & Kelly’s House we offer you an authenticity guarantee with all your purchases, so you’re 100% sure of the genuineness of your bags.
Get to know the amazing Hermès Bolide bag with us!
