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Kelly vs Birkin: A Comprehensive Comparison of Hermès’ Finest

So, you find yourself standing between two iconic Hermès bags. One is the Kelly, and the other is the Birkin.

You’re unsure of which one to choose. While both bags have made their mark in fashion history, they each tell a different story.

We will dissect what makes each bag unique, the pros and cons, and help you figure out which one suits you best.

 

Kelly vs. Birkin: A Brief History

The Kelly bag traces its roots to the 1930s, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that it became a global icon, thanks to Grace Kelly. The American actress-turned-Princess of Monaco famously used her Hermès bag to shield her pregnancy from the paparazzi.

The photo made headlines, and soon, the bag was renamed in her honor. Elegant, poised, and timeless, the Kelly reflects the very qualities of the woman who inspired it.

The Birkin bag has an interesting origin that comes from a chance meeting. It happened in 1981 between British actress Jane Birkin and the CEO of Hermès, Jean-Louis Dumas.

She shared her frustration about not being able to find a practical yet stylish bag. This led Dumas to design a bag that was both functional and chic, which would become the Birkin.

 

Kelly vs. Birkin: Value and Price

Why Hermès Bags Are Investment Pieces

Both Kelly and Birkin bags are viewed as more than mere luxury items. They are often seen as financial assets. These bags hold their value (or even increase in value) over time.

Hermès bags, especially the Kelly and Birkin, have become a kind of investment myth in the luxury market because they consistently perform better than many traditional investments.

It’s pretty common to see pre-owned Kelly and Birkin bags selling for more than they originally cost, especially if they’re rare or limited editions.

A major contributing factor to the continued value of these bags is their scarcity. Production numbers are very low. This attribute makes them all the more desirable.

Both of these bags stand as symbols of exclusivity and luxury. As a result, they maintain their value over the long term.

Hermès Price Increases in 2025

As we enter the new year, Hermès has started its annual price increases. EU prices have now risen by 4-8%. Rumors say US prices began changing on January 6.

These price jumps mirror Hermès’ strategy, which aims to uphold its exclusivity. When Hermès raises its prices, the resale value of these bags usually rises.

StyleLeather2024 ($)2025($) Increase($)
Mini Kelly 20Epsom$9,400$10,000$600
 Chevre$10,100$10,800$700
Kelly 25Epsom$11,800$12,600$800
 Togo$11,300$12,000$700
Kelly ElanEpsom$10,000$10,600$600
Birkin 25Togo$11,400$12,100$700
Birkin 30Togo$12,500$13,300$800

Hermès Birkin and Kelly US Prices 2025

Let’s look at the prices. Generally, Birkin bags are a tad more expensive than Kelly bags. This is especially true for larger sizes or special materials.

Kelly bags, especially in smaller sizes or regular leather, tend to be a little more affordable, but still, both are considered the top luxury bags on the market.

What Affects the Price?

Factors that play a vital role in pricing Birkin and Kelly:

  • Color: Neutral colors or specific shades that are harder to find, like Etoupe or Gold, can significantly increase the price.
  • Material: Bags made from exotic materials like crocodile or ostrich leather sell for much more than those made from regular leather, such as Togo or Clemence.
  • Rare Editions: Special or vintage versions, especially if they’re from specific collections or collaborations, tend to have higher prices.

 

Discover our high-end, fully handcrafted custom Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags—
luxury you can enjoy without the hefty price tag!

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What Is Harder to Get, Kelly or Birkin?

Both are extremely difficult to purchase directly from Hermès boutiques, but in most markets, the Birkin is harder to obtain, particularly for first-time clients. Classic sizes like Birkin 30 and 35 in neutral tones are highly sought-after and rarely offered without a significant purchase history.

That said, the Mini Kelly 20 is arguably the most elusive Hermès bag on the market. Due to its limited production and viral popularity, it’s VERY hard to buy from the boutique.

Which Is More Popular, Birkin or Kelly?

The Hermès Birkin bag is generally more popular than the Kelly, especially when it comes to global demand, search volume, and resale performance.

Historically, the Kelly bag has a longer heritage, but for decades—from the 1990s through the early 2000s—it was seen as the less popular option. Kelly bags were more readily available in boutiques, while Birkins remained highly elusive.

That said, things have changed in recent years. The launch of the Mini Kelly 20 II in 2016 sparked massive demand and reshaped the perception of the Kelly line. Today, certain Mini Kelly bags even outprice popular Birkin 25s on the resale market.

Still, by volume and search frequency, the Birkin remains the most-searched Hermès bag.

Top Birkin Picks Worth the Investment

If you’re considering a Birkin as a long-term investment, certain styles and colors stand out among collectors and tend to hold or increase their value over time.

Black Birkin
A classic black leather Birkin is a must-have for any collector. Many enthusiasts even own multiple black Birkins for different occasions because of their timeless versatility.

Classic Neutral Birkin
Neutral tones like Etoupe, Gold, and Hermès whites such as Beton, Nata, or Craie are essential in any collection. These colors consistently attract buyers and collectors, with gold being the second most popular after black.

Pink Birkin
Pastel pinks are highly popular among collectors, especially the newest pale pink shades released by Hermès. While lighter pinks remain in high demand, brighter pinks are generally less sought after.

Exotic Birkin
Once collectors have the basics, they often turn to exotic materials. Birkins made from crocodile or alligator leather are the most desirable, with black crocodile or alligator being the most popular first exotic choice.

Himalayan Birkin
For serious collectors, the Himalayan Birkin is a coveted addition, known for its rarity and stunning craftsmanship.

Faubourg Birkin
This limited-edition Birkin is among the most sought-after by dedicated collectors, making it a prized piece for any serious Birkin enthusiast.

Kelly vs Birkin: Design and Function

What is the difference between Kelly and Birkin?

The Kelly bag is known for its sleek, structured trapezoid shape and classic top-flap closure. It has a single top handle and a secure turn-lock mechanism, which gives it a refined, elegant look.

To preserve the bag’s shape and keep items safe, the Kelly is always carried closed, unlike the Birkin, which can be worn open. The handle and strap allow the bag to be used by hand, on the shoulder, or even crossbody.

In contrast, the Birkin bag has a more relaxed, slouchy silhouette, designed like an open tote with a rectangular shape and two top handles.

Its turn-lock flap can be styled in various ways: tucked inside for easy access, laid casually over the front, or fastened securely with the sangles and toggle. While it comes with a padlock, it’s more decorative than functional.

Handles and Carrying Options

One of the first things people notice when comparing the two bags is the handle design:

The Kelly has one handle and comes with a detachable shoulder strap, allowing it to be worn on the shoulder or crossbody.

The Birkin has two handles, and no strap. It’s meant to be carried by hand or in the crook of the arm. The double-handle design allows the bag to stay partially closed even when the flap is tucked in.

Neither bag’s handles are long enough to wear comfortably over the shoulder, unless you’re using the Kelly strap.

Hermes Birkin vs Kelly in neutral tones, comparing the classic Birkin bag and Kelly bag with gold hardware.A side profile view of Kelly vs Birkin bags, highlighting the structural differences

 

Kelly vs Birkin: Size and Capacity

The Kelly bag comes in several sizes, ranging from the smallest to the largest:

  • 20cm (Mini Kelly)
  • 25cm (Kelly 25)
  • 28cm (Kelly 28)
  • 32cm (Kelly 32)
  • 35cm (Kelly 35)
  • 40cm (Kelly 40) – Rarely produced, but not discontinued.
  • 50cm (Kelly 50) – Very rare, often referred to as a collector’s piece.

Smaller ones like 20cm and 25cm are suitable for evening or formal events. Larger models, for instance, 35cm and 40cm, are better for daytime.

The Birkin bag also offers several sizes:

  • 25cm (Birkin 25)
  • 30cm (Birkin 30)
  • 35cm (Birkin 35)
  • 40cm (Birkin 40)
  • 42cm (Birkin 42) – A more elongated version.
  • 50cm (Birkin 50, also known as the HAC Birkin) – The largest and tallest version.

The Birkin is generally slightly larger than the Kelly, with sizes such as 30cm, 35cm, and 40cm being especially popular for everyday use due to their more spacious interiors.

 

Kelly vs Birkin: Usage Scenarios and Practicality

The Kelly bag is a great choice for formal events.

Its structured and elegant design makes it a perfect match for professional outfits, like business suits, or for evening wear like cocktail dresses and gowns.

If you’re going to a high-end event, a meeting, or a gala, the Kelly is the bag you want to carry to add that touch of sophistication.

For daily wear, the Kelly is great for women who like a polished and refined look. It goes well with smart casual. It is a solid choice for elegant everyday wear.

However, with its rigid structure, it is not ideal for super casual settings, nor is it the best for laid-back environments.

The Birkin bag is all about versatility.

The design is more relaxed. Whether you commute to work, run errands, or go about your daily routine, the Birkin will carry everything you need.

Travelers also love it. The roomy size of the Birkin makes it easy to fit all your essentials — clothes, makeup, documents, and accessories. Weekend trips and longer vacations.

The great thing about the Birkin is how adaptable it is. You can wear it to both formal and casual occasions. The Birkin is perfect for a lunch date or a weekend outing. It also suits elegant events well.

 

Kelly vs Birkin: Pros and Cons

Hermès Kelly Bag

Pros:

  • Timeless Look: Kelly belongs to Hermès’ “Holy Trinity” of bags. That means it’s always stylish.
  • Quality: Made from premium leather, it is crafted with care, built to last.
  • Versatile: It comes with a detachable shoulder strap. Wear it over the shoulder or carry it by hand.
  • Protects Your Bag: Kelly has metal feet at the bottom to protect it from scratches and damage.
  • Great Resale Value: Kelly bags are in demand. If you ever decide to sell, it has a high resale price.

Cons:

  • Flap Can Be Tricky: Kelly’s flap can be hard to open or close quickly.
  • Heavy: The Kelly can be pretty heavy, even when it’s empty.
  • Hard to Get: It can be tough to find the size, color, or leather you want.

Hermès Birkin Bag

Pros:

  • Roomy: Birkin is ideal if you need space for day-to-day items.
  • Quality for Life: Like the Kelly, the Birkin is designed to last forever.
  • High Resale Value: Birkin has great resale value. It’s a bag that gets a lot of demand.
  • Versatile in Style: You can style the Birkin in many ways—casual, formal, for work, or for travel.

Cons:

  • Prices Keep Rising: Birkin bags are becoming pricier, turning less affordable.
  • Weight: Comparable to the Kelly, the Birkin is also quite heavy.
  • No Shoulder Strap: Kelly comes with a shoulder strap, but this is not the case with the Birkin.
  • Frustrating Clasp: The clasp on the Birkin is quite iconic, but it can be a bit of a hassle to open and close.
  • Difficulty to Get: Finding the exact size, color, and material you want can be a challenge.

 

How to Choose the Right Bag for You

Kelly or Birkin for the first Hermès?

By now, you should have a clear understanding of all the aspects of Kelly vs Birkin. If you’re considering buying one, just think about the points we’ve covered.

Here are a few things to think about:

  • Do you have a preference for a structured and elegant design? Or do you lean towards a more casual, relaxed look?
  • Do you require a bag that can fit all your items? Or are you searching for a smaller, more compact bag?
  • Will you use the bag daily, or just on special occasions?
  • Are you comfortable with a heavier bag? Or do you prefer something that is lighter?

After considering these questions, you will have a better idea of which bag is most suitable for you. Want something practical and versatile for everyday wear? Then the Birkin is likely the best choice.

First-Time Buyers: How to Pick the Right Size, Material, and Color

If it’s your first time buying a luxury Hermès bag, this is a guide for you.

Size

Each bag has a variety of sizes. For first-time buyers, a mid-size is often the best.

  • Birkin 30: A versatile size that works for most daily needs. It’s spacious but still elegant. Perfect for work, errands, or outings.

  • Kelly 25 or 28: These sizes offer a polished look with practical space. The Kelly 25 is great for more formal wear, while the Kelly 28 gives you more flexibility for day-to-day use.

If you’re unsure, aim for mid-sized bags like Birkin 30 or Kelly 28, they’re the most practical and the easiest to resell if you change your mind later.

Material

Hermès is famous for using some of the finest leathers in the world, and each type offers a unique look and feel. For first-time buyers, choosing the right leather can make all the difference in how much you enjoy and use your bag.

Here are the most popular and beginner-friendly options:

  • Togo: The most popular leather for Birkin bags. It’s slightly grainy, durable, and holds its shape well over time. Great for everyday use and highly recommended for first-time buyers.

  • Epsom: The most popular leather for Kelly bags, especially in sizes like the Mini Kelly 20, Kelly 25, and Kelly 28. It’s lightweight, resistant to scratches, and keeps a structured look.

  • Chevre: Often used for Mini Kelly bags, this leather is lightweight, has a subtle sheen, and is very resilient. It’s less common but loved for its refined texture.

  • Madame & Monsieur: Sleek, smooth leathers commonly used in Sellier styles. They offer a more rigid, elegant look, especially in formal designs like the Sellier Birkin.

Color

Color plays a big role in both personal style and resale value.

Top-performing colors include timeless neutrals like Black, Gold, and Nata. These are safe bets that never go out of style and consistently perform well at auction.

Pastel shades, especially the newest seasonal pinks and greens, are also collector favorites. Classic pale pinks like Rose Sakura and 5P Pink almost always command higher prices than brighter colors.

Underperforming colors tend to include bright Hermès hues like bold red, yellow, purple, blue, or green. Even some HSS (Horseshoe Stamp) custom bags with loud color combinations don’t hold value as well as neutral tones.

If you’re new to Hermès, starting with a neutral or soft pastel color is both stylish and smart from a resale perspective.

 

Buying Replica Hermès Birkin and Kelly Bags

Maybe you find yourself overwhelmed by all the choices: what size to pick, which color or leather will hold its value, and it just feels like too much of a hassle.

Or perhaps you simply want a beautiful bag in your favorite color, even if it’s not a classic or investment-worthy shade. Spending tons of time and money chasing an authentic Hermès bag just doesn’t seem worth it.

That’s where high-quality replicas come in.

Advantages of Buying Replica Bags:

  • Affordable Luxury: Replicas are much cheaper when compared to authentic bags.
  • Quality Materials: Many replicas use premium materials. So they look and feel similar to the real thing.
  • Variety of Options: Replicas provide more choices in colors and styles. You can get exactly what you want, even the rare, limited-edition ones.
  • No Waiting: Real Hermès bags can take months or even years to procure. On the other hand, you can have a replica right away.

 

Get Your Birkin/Kelly at Perfecthbags

There are places like Perfecthbags, where one can find high-grade replicas of these luxury bags. They use premium materials, and the aim is to mimic the original craftsmanship.

Better Value, Luxury Within Reach

Compared to the high premiums in the Hermes store/secondary market, Perfecthbags offers a much more reasonable price, so you can enjoy the luxury of Hermès without spending tens of thousands of dollars.

Customizable Hermes Just for You

Popular colors/sizes are often hard to find at Hermès boutiques, but with Perfecthbags, you can freely choose your preferred combinations without being limited by Hermès’ stock.

Perfecthbags offers customization services, allowing you to own a truly unique Hermes.

Superior Craftsmanship

We commit to ensuring every Hermes follows the “original standards”, striving for perfection in every detail.

We collaborate with experienced craftsmen who previously worked at Hermès, ensuring that every cut, stitch, and saddle-sewn seam follows the same meticulous standards as the original.

We use the same materials and techniques as Hermès to deliver a luxurious experience that’s indistinguishable from the original.

Worldwide Free Shipping

Each bag is handcrafted, with a production time of 15-35 days. Once completed, we ship via secure, reliable international logistics, so you don’t have to wait long to enjoy your Hermès-level experience.

Lifetime Warranty & Care Service

Perfecthbags offers a lifetime warranty and care service, ensuring your bag stays pristine for years to come.

Enjoy peace of mind knowing that your bag will always look as stunning as the day you got it.

Rave Reviews & Happy Customers

Perfecthbags is trusted by customers worldwide, with real buyer photos, side-by-side comparisons, and glowing reviews proving our quality.

Why spend a fortune on boutique purchases with no guarantee of getting your dream bag?

 

Your dream Hermès bag is just a click away

Explore our stunning Hermès Birkin and Kelly replicas and treat yourself today at Perfecthbags.

Seeking more options? Take a look at our selection of Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags at Perfecthbags.
 
Alternatively, you can get in touch with one of our specialists (email us at [email protected]). Our specialists can guide you in the search for the perfect luxury bag that suits your style and needs.

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