Handbags and Accessories

Holiday Gift Guide 2022: The Best Exotic Hermès Purses

By Lindsey Weiss
Shop Gifts from Hermès: Purses and Accessories Available for Immediate Shipping
Hermès Ostrich Kelly Pochette
Hermès Ostrich Kelly Pochette

Holiday Gift Guide: Exotic Hermès Purses

With gifting season right around the corner, it's time to start thinking about the perfect present for that special someone. For the Hermès purse lover in your life, Sotheby’s has a number of spectacular bags that will make the ultimate gift. Exotic Hermès purses are a step above the rest, accounting for only about 20% of Birkins sold at auction. Sotheby’s has a selection of exceptional exotic purses available for immediate purchase, just in time for the holidays.

Hermès Kelly Pochette Fuchsia Ostrich Palladium Hardware, 2021

Ostrich Hermès Kelly Pochette

When most people think of exotics they think of crocodile or alligator, but Hermès produces purses with other rare materials as well. Ostrich has long been a part of the house's repertoire, and is an understated favorite for dedicated collectors. Each Ostrich bag displays a unique arrangement of quills. Hermès ostrich purses are characterized with even and plentiful quills that are best exhibited on a small bag like the Kelly Pochette. This fuschsia ostrich Hermès Kelly Pochette makes a perfect holiday gift for the lover of a practical clutch in a pretty pink. This color is great for day and night and the roomy interior of the Kelly Pochette holds your essentials.

Hermès Mini Kelly II 20 Mimosa Matte Alligator Gold Hardware, 2021

Alligator Hermès Mini Kelly 20

Mini Kelly mania has overtaken Hermès collectors around the world with no sign of slowing. An Hermès Mini Kelly in cheerful Mimosa Alligator is sure to impress. Recently we have seen a growing preference from collectors for matte alligator due to its soft finish. The matte finish is also more forgiving of scratches and water spots. If the special person on your list likes to add bright pops of color to an otherwise neutral wardrobe, this Hermès Mini Kelly is an exceptional gift.

Hermès Kelly 28 Sellier Blue Baltique Shiny Crocodile Gold Hardware, 2021

Crocodile Hermès Kelly 28

The Hermès Kelly is a timeless purse. Taking its name from Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco, nothing could be more closely linked to sophistication and elegance. A crocodile Hermès Kelly takes this elegance to the next level. This stunning example, in shiny Porosus Crocodile, is an ideal 28cm size. Classic in navy, the rich Bleu Baltique color is deep and multifaceted, and the scales display exceptional qualities; small, square and symmetrical.

Hermès Birkin 25 Vert D'Eau Matte Alligator Gold Hardware, 2021

Alligator Hermès Birkin 25

Hermès Birkin 25 continues to be the most popular Birkin size. Also on trend are pale matte alligator colors like this Vert D'Eau. If you are looking for the perfect gift for the an Hermès collector in the know, this Birkin 25 will surely impress.

Hermès Birkin 30 Himalaya White Matte Niloticus Crocodile Palladium Hardware, 2020

Crocodile Hermès Birkin 30

Considered by many as the Holy Grail of Hermès purses, the Himalaya Birkin. In a size 30, it is also the most practical for all wearers. The delicate pattern that is achieved through meticulous finishing techniques is meant to evoke the world's largest mountain range. The matte finish masks most wear and scratching. While the Himalaya Birkin was been available since 2008, it remains highly desired by new and experienced collectors.

Hermès Constance 18 Mini Ombré Salvator Lizard Palladium Hardware, 2021

Lizard Hermès Constance

In Hermès parlance, BKC is a term many collectors are familiar with, referring to the holy trinity of handbags: the Birkin, Kelly and Constance. No collection is complete without examples of all three. Additionally, Hermès Ombré Lizard bags are often considered an alternative to the Himalayan. First produced in 2007, the Ombre Constance is a unique gift for the Hermès lover. The Mini Constance 18 is also the more desirable size as buyers continue to favor smaller mini bags.

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