If you’re new to the Hermès world or if you’re just thinking of buying your first ever Hermès handbag, you might be wondering what is the best choice for your first Hermès bag or how to choose your first Hermès bag. This is why we have prepared this guide to help you make an informed purchase and make the right decision.
Next, we will give you some tips to choose your first Hermès bag depending on your interests, budget and favorite fashion choice. We will also give you a list of the best first Hermès bags to start your collection. Don’t miss out!
- Determine your needs
- Choose the right style for you
- Pick a safe option
- Have your budget in mind
- The best first Hermès bags
Determine your needs
Before buying your first Hermès bag you need to determine a few things that will help you make your choice easier. The first thing you need to have in mind is your needs, what is the use you plan to give to the bag and on which occasions do you want to use it. Here are a few examples and ideas so you can identify yours:
- For daily use: If you want a bag that can be your companion every day or in most outings, you should pick a comfortable, spacious and neutral-colored bag that can fit perfectly into your style and looks. We recommend a Herbag, an Evelyne or a Picotin bag, preferably in Black, Gold, Etoupe or Etain colors.
- For special occasions: If you’re looking for a bag that can catch everyone’s attention when going to special events, your best choice would be a small bag that is easy to carry but it can cause a lasting impression, for that you should opt for striking colors or exotic skins. We recommend you get a Constance bag in exotic skin with a vibrant or deep rich color, pastels are also a great choice.
- For investment: If you have a considerable budget and you want to invest in a Hermès bag to keep it for a few years with little to no use and then sell it, we recommend you buy any of the three Hermès Holy Grail bags, that are: Bikin, Kelly or Constance. You can buy classic colored bags in calfskin as they always keep their value, or you can look for exotic skins or limited-edition bags, which are generally more valuable in the long run.
Choose the right style for you
There is a great difference between what you need in a bag, and what you want it to look like as part of your style. So to choose your first Hermès bag you also need to think about the handbag style and the combinations that will resonate the best with your personal appearance.
Everyone has a personal style and sometimes it doesn’t necessarily follow a trend or a defined popular style, but it is a combination of many elements and preferences. This means that your style is unique and that you have to find the Hermès bag that best suits it, especially if you’re planning on using it, whether as a regular accessory or at special occasions.
Here are some tips to find the Hermès handbag that matches your style:
Shapes and silhouettes
It is well-known that some shapes are more flattering than others, and that everyone has a preference when it comes to it. Find a Hermès bag with a silhouette that you enjoy or that complements what you usually wear. Some garments have a very defined shape, and the silhouette of your Hermès bag can look better if you choose correctly.
Explore the shapes of the different Hermès bags and choose the one that you like the most. We recommend you look for pictures online so you can see what the bag looks like when being carried, and how it looks when matched to certain types of outfits.
Sizes
The size of your Hermès bag will majorly depend on your needs, whether you want a compact bag or you need one with a bigger storage space. However, you can also choose the size of your Hermès bag to match your height, this way it will look more harmonious overall.
If you’re a short person, it is preferable not to wear bags that are too large, as they can make you look even shorter. If you’re tall, using a very small bag can make you look disproportionate, so it is best to opt for a medium bag.
Handbag style
There are many styles of Hermès bags, as they are designed for all tastes and preferences. When choosing the right first Hermès bag and matching it to your style, you need to decide on a handbag style, which means that you need to know if you’re looking for a tote bag, a crossbody bag or a clutch. The handbag style that you choose will align with your personal style, and you should also consider the use you want to give to the bag to choose this aspect.
Tote bags are ideal for casual occasions and for people that need enough storage space on a daily basis. Crossbody bags are generally compact, they are comfortable and can allow you to store some of your belongings, but they don’t have much storage space. Clutches, on the other hand, are perfect for formal events where you need a luxurious bag, but don’t need to take many items with you, just your essentials.
Skins, colors and hardware
The types of skin, colors and hardware of your Hermès handbag can say a lot about your style and whilst this is the easiest aspect to pick, there are certain elements that you need to take into consideration. Not all skins are suited for all occasions and not all hardware options are ideal for every occasion.
Exotic skins, for example, are best for formal events or special occasions, whilst calfskin is ideal for almost every situation. When it comes to hardware, Palladium is more suitable for casual occasions, whilst Gold is a better choice for events that require extra luxury and sophistication.
When thinking of color, there are some neutral hues that are the best choice for casual or everyday wear. Striking or vibrant colors can be applied as a special touch to some outfits that require it, either casual, corporate or formal. Deep rich colors and pastels are frequently used for formal events, depending on the time of the day. Although there are certain color preferences, this aspect tends to be more free and is often left to interpretation.
Get additional help and a more complete guide to pick a Hermès bag that matches your style.
Pick a safe option
Although the previously mentioned aspects are of key importance to pick a Hermès bag, it is recommended to go for a safe option when buying your first Hermès bag, as it will guarantee not only a classic choice for many occasions, but it will also represent a safe investment piece that can be resold whenever you want.
A safe option can be considered in two ways: a non exclusive bag, or an exclusive bag in classic skin, color and hardware.
A non exclusive bag can be ideal for your first investment in a Hermès bag, because you will not have to spend too much money, and it will be a good way to familiarize with the brand’s craftsmanship and quality without opting for too expensive pieces.
On the other hand, an exclusive bag in a classic combination will always be a safe bet when investing, because it won’t only be perfectly adaptable to every outfit that you wear, but it will also be a sought-after handbag in the luxury resale market, because classic combinations tend to retain their value very well and they are considered the timeless favorites.
This way, either you pick a non exclusive bag or an exclusive bag in a classic combination, you will be able to enjoy the quality and luxury of a Hermès handbag without the risk of wasting your money or making a bad investment. It is always smarter to opt for a safe option as a first Hermès bag!
Have your budget in mind
Your budget is basically the first thing that you need to consider before buying your first Hermès bag. Although Hermès is an expensive luxury brand and most of its products are costly, there are still some affordable handbags that you can purchase first before indulging in the world of exclusive Holy Grail Hermès bags.
If you have a low budget or you’re looking to spend less on your first Hermès handbag, it is advisable to buy a non exclusive bag, such as Picotin, Lindy, Herbag, In the Loop, or Evelyne. These options are ideal to start your Hermès collection and discover the quality of Hermès craftsmanship without wasting too much money.
If your budget is higher and you don’t mind spending more on your first Hermès bag, you can definitely opt for a Holy Grail Hermès bag, such as Birkin, Kelly or Constance. These exclusive bags can be a great investment for your future and they are more popular and highly coveted.
The best first Hermès bags
Now that you have these tips to choose your first Hermès bag, we want to give you some amazing options to choose from, so you can fulfill your dream of owning a Hermès bag while also taking your first steps carefully. We have included non exclusive Hermès bags and one exclusive bag that can be a perfect first choice too. Don’t miss out!
Mini Evelyne bag
The beautiful Mini Evelyne bag or Evelyne TPM is a great choice as a first Hermès bag, its small size makes it convenient to wear and carry without any discomfort. The Mini Evelyne can be used crossbody or hung from your shoulder, providing you with the freedom you need to use your hands while on the move.
Despite its small size, the Mini Evelyne can easily fit your phone, keys, wallet and makeup. This bag is ideal for casual occasions or everyday wear, so it can be just what you need if that is what you’re looking for. Besides, it is surprisingly affordable, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 USD.
Picotin 22 bag
This uniquely shaped bag is without a doubt a marvelous choice for your first Hermès bag. The Picotin 22 is a medium sized tote bag that can be easily adaptable to your everyday wear or your corporate looks, as it is minimalist yet sophisticated. The Picotin bag design is optimized to fit your belongings comfortably and protect them with a padlock.
The Picotin 22 is an easy to carry bag, as it can be hung from the crook of your arm or simply grabbed with your hand. The Picotin versatility and its great range of colors makes it a great choice. Best of all, its price is low compared to other Hermès bags, it can range from $3,500 to $4,000 USD.
Herbag
The Herbag is known as the Kelly bag’s cousin and it is the perfect choice for those that want the aesthetic of a Kelly bag without spending too much money. The Herbag has a versatile canvas body shaped like a trapezoid, and a handle and closing flap made in calfskin, both parts of the bag can be detached and changed for other options, making it a truly versatile bag. Besides, it can even be turned inside out for a new look!
The sporty look of the Herbag is ideal for those looking for a casual and light bag for everyday use. Currently there are many color combinations for the Herbag and it is a highly customizable bag thanks to its versatile features. It can be easily carried with a strap as a crossbody or with your hand or arm as a tote. The Herbag’s price can vary from $2,000 to $4,000 USD, making it an affordable option.
Lindy bag
With a truly incredible design, the Lindy is a beautiful choice for your first Hermès bag. This calfskin tote can be used in many different ways and provide a very stylish and sophisticated look. Its unique handles placed at each side of the body and its comfortable strap are its true attractive features. Despite its rare shape, the Lindy can fit all your belongings easily and provide a sense of security thanks to its padlock and closing system.
The Lindy bag is an amazing choice for corporate wear or even for a night out, especially if you choose the Mini Lindy size. This bag is undoubtedly a great pick as a first Hermès bag, and although it is a little more expensive, it is still a worthwhile investment. The Lindy bag prices can range from $6,000 to $8,000 USD.
In The Loop bag
One of the newest Hermès releases, the In The Loop bag is an incredible piece that carries the legacy of the brand. This bag was inspired by the nautical “Chaine d’Ancre” design and it is visible throughout its components, such as the bottom of the bag, the handles and the hardware closure, all of them shaped as nautical chain links.
This new handbag has gained popularity in the last few months and it represents a great choice to start your Hermès collection. Its unique and comfortable shape, similar to the Picotin bag, makes it spacious to carry your belongings. It is also easy to carry on the crook of your arm or with your hand. Its price can range from $4,000 to 6,000 USD.
Constance bag
Finally, one of the members of the Hermès Holy Trinity, the Constance bag is a compact and comfortable crossbody bag that can be adapted to any style and occasion effortlessly. This bag has a square shape and an iconic “H” shaped clasp that provides a sophisticated touch. The Constance comes in various sizes, ready to cater to those that need more storage or a very compact bag.
This bag is an ideal choice to be the first in your collection, because it is an exclusive bag and you will slowly start your way into more valuable and impressive Hermès handbags. The Constance is comfortable, luxurious, sporty and versatile, everything you need in a bag for day to day use or formal events. Its price can range from $12,000 to $20,000 USD. The Constance is ideal if you have a bigger budget.
So, are you ready to choose your first Hermès bag?
Now that you have all the necessary tools to do it, you can certainly make the best choice to start your Hermès collection.
If you’re looking for a reliable ecommerce store to buy brand new in box and authentic Hermès handbags at the best prices, you can’t miss our online store at The Birkin’s & Kelly’s House, we are ready to offer you the best of the best, without waiting lists or risks of counterfeits.
Don’t wait any longer and buy an authentic new Hermès bag today!
