Hermès is one of the most iconic luxury fashion brands in the world. Their handbags are especially coveted, with the Birkin and Kelly bags being among the most sought-after accessories. While these two bags may appear similar at first glance, there are some significant differences between them. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key differences between Birkin and Kelly bags.
The History of the Birkin and Kelly Bags
Both the Birkin and Kelly bags were created by Hermès, a French luxury brand founded in 1837. The Kelly bag was first introduced in the 1930s as a saddlebag for equestrians. It wasn’t until 1956 that the bag gained its iconic status when actress Grace Kelly was photographed carrying it. The bag was subsequently renamed the Kelly bag in her honor.
The Birkin bag, on the other hand, was created in 1984. It was named after English actress and singer Jane Birkin, who reportedly complained to Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas about the difficulty of finding a practical yet stylish leather bag. Dumas then worked with Birkin to create a new design, and the Birkin bag was born.
Overall Design Differences
One of the most obvious differences between the Birkin and Kelly bags is their overall design. The Kelly bag has a trapezoidal shape, while the Birkin bag is more rectangular. The Kelly bag also features a single handle on top, while the Birkin bag has two handles.
Another key design difference is the closure mechanism. The Kelly bag features a distinctive turn-lock closure, while the Birkin bag has a flap closure with a lock and key.
Size and Capacity
Both the Birkin and Kelly bags come in various sizes, but they have different capacities. The Kelly bag tends to be smaller and slimmer than the Birkin bag. The largest size of the Kelly bag, known as the 50cm, has a capacity of around 40 liters. The largest Birkin bag, on the other hand, can hold up to 65 liters.
The handles of the Birkin bag are also designed to be more practical for carrying heavier items. They are shorter and sturdier than the handles of the Kelly bag.
Material Options
Both the Birkin and Kelly bags are available in a wide range of materials, including leather, exotic skins, and canvas. However, the Birkin bag has more material options than the Kelly bag.
The Birkin bag is available in leather types such as Togo, Clemence, and Epsom, while the Kelly bag is typically made of box calf leather. The Birkin bag is also available in exotic skins such as crocodile, ostrich, and lizard, while the Kelly bag is primarily made of leather.
Pricing and Availability
The Birkin and Kelly bags are both highly sought-after luxury accessories, but they differ in terms of pricing and availability. Birkin bags are generally more expensive than Kelly bags, with prices starting at around $9,000 for the smallest Birkin bag. The price of a Birkin bag can go up to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the material and size.
The Birkin bag is also notoriously difficult to obtain. There are often long waiting lists, and it can take years to receive one. Some people even hire personal shoppers or pay up to double the retail price to acquire a Birkin bag.
While the Kelly bag is still a highly sought-after accessory, it is generally easier to obtain than a Birkin bag. Prices for the Kelly bag start at around $7,000 and can go up to around $30,000 for exotic skin variations.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between a Birkin and Kelly bag comes down to personal preference. Both bags are iconic, high-quality accessories that can elevate any outfit.
If you prefer a more structured bag with a classic, ladylike silhouette, the Kelly bag may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a roomier bag with a more relaxed, casual feel, the Birkin bag may be the way to go.
It’s worth noting that both bags are considered investment pieces, as they tend to hold their value well over time. So if you do decide to invest in a Birkin or Kelly bag, it’s likely to be a purchase you won’t regret.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Birkin and Kelly bags share some similarities, there are also several key differences between them. The Kelly bag has a trapezoidal shape, a turn-lock closure, and a single top handle, while the Birkin bag is more rectangular, has a flap closure with a lock and key, and two handles.
The Birkin bag is generally more expensive and harder to obtain than the Kelly bag, but both are highly sought-after luxury accessories that hold their value well over time.
