The Origins of the Kelly
Hermès first introduced handbags in 1900 when the company released the Haut à Courroies (HAC). This Hermès bag was designed specifically to carry the saddles of equestrians. In 1935, the HAC was reimagined as the Kelly – then called the Sac à Dépchêches. This Hermès purse was a favorite of actress turned princess Grace Kelly, who used it to hide her pregnancy from paparazzi. The princess of Monaco popularized the bag, and the purse received her name in 1977. Since its introduction, the Kelly’s iconic design has been reimagined into handbags that epitomize unparalleled luxury and glamour. Read on to learn how Hermès has transformed the Kelly through the years into rare, limited edition handbags almost too good to be true.
Kelly Himalaya: An ode to the majesty of nature
One of the most beautiful exotic Hermès Kellys is the Himalaya Kelly Retourne. This Hermès bag is constructed out of Niloticus crocodile skin dyed in a white and grey gradient. The exotic skin’s coloring is intended to evoke the white snow of the Himalaya Mountains. The cool tones of the crocodile is complemented by palladium-plated hardware. Available in sizes 25 cm and 32 cm, this Hermès handbag is only offered to VIP clients.
Kelly Diamond: An ultra glamorous twist on a classic handbag
Hermès Diamond Kelly bags are extremely rare collectors items that radiate luxury. They are constructed from exquisite crocodile skin and feature diamond encrusted 18-karat white gold hardware. Diamonds are set into the cadena lock and touret, transforming the Hermès bag from a classic icon to an extravagant statement. Diamond Kellys are sizable bags at 32 cm. These Hermès handbags come in many colors including red, black, blue, and other glamorous shades.
Sterling Silver Mini Kelly: A piece of art with full functional capacity
The incredibly rare Hermès Sterling Silver Mini Kelly is equal parts handbag and sculpture. The bag is made from the highest quality sterling silver and features a removable Chaine d’Ancre chain for a shoulder strap. This tiny fully functional purse is 15 cm in size. The Sterling Silver Kelly is an exquisite evening accessory that exhibits the inimitable craftsmanship of Hermès artisans.
Feather Kelly: A dream come true
The Hermès Feather Sellier Kelly is a whimsical creation uniting delicate bird feathers with top quality Hermès leather. This dreamy bag comes in a variety of colors and feathers. A few exquisite pairings include Blue Atoll Tadelakt leather with matching blue rooster feathers as well as Green Anis Doblis leather paired with luminescent peacock feathers. This Hermès bag is constructed with the help of Maison Lemarié, a haute couture feather specialist. The feathers are attached to the handbag one at a time - a painstaking process that ensures an impeccable result.
