Hermès Constance Bag Guide: Sizes, Popular Materials, and How to Buy It

The Hermès Constance is one of the brand’s most beloved models, admired for its clean, elegant design and extensive color range. It comes in four distinct sizes, each offering a unique presence and style.

Among them, the Constance 24 is especially popular as a classic choice. Since both the color and leather type significantly influence the bag’s character, it’s worth knowing which materials are most sought after before making a purchase.

In this guide, we’ll explain the different Constance sizes, explore the qualities of its most popular leathers, and introduce the best ways to acquire one. We’ll also share styling examples so you can get the most inspiration before choosing your own.

What Is the Constance? Understanding Its Appeal

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The Constance is a shoulder bag distinguished by Hermès’s signature “H” clasp. Since its debut in 1969, it has remained a timeless favorite for over 50 years, establishing itself as one of the brand’s iconic models.

Its signature charm lies in the instantly recognizable “H” motif, which blends refined design with practicality. This combination enhances the Constance’s luxurious appeal.

Another aspect of its allure is the variety of colors, sizes, and materials it is available in, which allows each bag to convey a different look and feel. Hermès is celebrated for offering only the finest leathers, and simply changing the material can transform a bag’s personality entirely. The Constance embodies this versatility, offering premium leathers such as Box Calf and Epsom that elevate its charm.

Thanks to these qualities, the Constance has seen renewed popularity, particularly as part of trends like compact wallets and “street style mixed with luxury.” Today, it stands out as one of Hermès’s most coveted models.

Popular Leathers for the Constance

Hermès is renowned for its uncompromising commitment to leather, offering only the highest quality materials. Each leather type has a distinct texture, rarity, and personality, and develops a unique patina over time, making the process of selecting one part of the joy of ownership.

Here’s a closer look at the most popular leathers used for the Constance and what makes each special.

1. Box Calf

Estimated Retail Price: $16,690 USD

Box Calf enhances the Constance’s elegance with its refined, glossy finish. The name is said to trace back to the shoemaker Joseph Box from the 1890s. This leather is made from the hides of young male calves, making it rare and highly valued.

Its distinctive texture comes from a short tanning process that gives it firmness, while its signature “water grain” wrinkles create a graceful sheen. While its smooth surface can make it prone to scratches, its timeless beauty and the way it ages with character have made it a favorite for many collectors.

2. Epsom

Estimated Retail Price: $14,240 USD

Epsom leather is prized for its fine grain, durability, and resistance to deformation. Introduced in 2003 as the successor to Courchevel, its full name is Veau Epsom.

This leather has become a staple in Hermès collections due to its practicality and durability. Its subtle sheen works equally well in both casual and formal settings, and its water resistance makes it ideal for everyday wear. New Epsom leather is firm, but over time it softens, molding comfortably to the owner’s touch.

3. Alligator

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Estimated Retail Price: $30,720 USD

Alligator leather comes from the Mississippi alligator, native to America. Its rarity and beauty place it in the highest price tier among Hermès materials.

Alligator leather is known for its striking coloration and large, irregular scale patterns. Finished with Hermès’s signature lissé polishing (buffing with agate stone), this leather highlights the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship. The Constance in alligator leather is available in two finishes: shiny, which offers a deep luster, and matte, which provides understated elegance and a soft texture.

4. Lizard

Estimated Retail Price: $10,380 USD

Lizard leather is one of Hermès’s rarest exotic materials, sourced from lizards found in Southeast Asia. Its appeal lies in its delicate pattern and lustrous sheen, creating a striking beauty that draws collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Even in its compact size, a Constance lizard carries a refined presence, making it a statement piece. In 2007, Hermès introduced “Lizard Nature,” which preserves the leather’s natural beauty with minimal processing, offering an even rarer and more authentic experience.

5. Tadelakt

Estimated Retail Price: $2,300 USD

Tadelakt offers a smooth, refined texture similar to Box Calf. Sourced from young male calves, it features a fine grain and a supple finish that enhances the Constance’s elegance.

Although delicate, its versatility and ability to elevate any outfit make it a strong choice. Over time, Tadelakt develops a unique patina, becoming a personal, evolving piece that reflects the owner’s style.

6. Chèvre (Goatskin)

Estimated Retail Price: $15,290 USD

Chèvre leather is valued for its softness, vivid color range, and lighter weight compared to calfskin. Known as the “king of leathers,” goatskin is prized for its practicality and luxury.

Hermès’s Chèvre stands out for its exceptional quality and is used not only in handbags but also in wallets, belts, and even Birkin interior pockets. Its durability, range of colors, and easy care make it a perfect choice for those who want a versatile, everyday Constance.

Hermès Constance Bag Sizes

The Constance comes in four distinct sizes, each offering different storage capacity and aesthetic appeal. The right choice depends on your lifestyle and how you plan to use the bag.

In the next section, we’ll explore each size of the Constance and discuss their unique features and functionality.

Constance 14

The Constance 14 is the smallest size in the Constance line, measuring 13.5cm (W) x 11cm (H) x 3cm (D). Often referred to as the “Micro” or “Mini Mini,” it is produced in far fewer quantities than other sizes. For collectors or buyers, finding one is rare, and the moment it appears on the market may be the best—and perhaps only—chance to purchase it.

Its compact proportions—neither wide nor tall—give it more of the feel of an accessory than a conventional bag. The petite, rounded body accented by the iconic “H” clasp makes it a charming statement piece, perfect for adding a touch of luxury to casual or streetwear outfits.

In terms of capacity, the Constance 14 is only large enough to fit a compact Hermès wallet, such as the Béarn. With no dividers or pockets, it’s best suited for carrying just the essentials. Even a standard-sized iPhone will be challenging to fit, so careful consideration of how you intend to use it is essential before making a purchase decision.

Constance 18

Estimated Retail Price: $18,100 USD

The Constance 18 is slightly larger than the Constance 14, measuring 18.5cm (W) x 15cm (H) x 5cm (D). Often called the “Mini,” it is a versatile size that works beautifully as a secondary bag.

This size aligns perfectly with recent fashion trends centered on “mini bags” and “compact wallets,” making it increasingly popular. The Constance 18 blends style with functionality, serving as both a fashion accessory and a practical everyday bag.

Inside, it features dividers and a small pocket, offering enough space for a wallet, phone, cards, and other essentials. Adjustable shoulder straps add further versatility, allowing it to be styled to suit different occasions.

Constance 24

Estimated Retail Price: $15,990 USD

The Constance 24 is the largest size in the range, measuring 22.5cm (W) x 18cm (H) x 7.5cm (D), and is often regarded as the classic Constance. It offers enough space to serve as a main bag while making a stylish statement that elevates any outfit.

Its popularity has led Hermès to produce the Constance 24 in a wide range of materials and colors, offering buyers numerous variations to choose from. While it is generally more expensive than the Constance 14 or 18, its size and versatility make it a highly valuable choice. That said, in the secondhand market, smaller sizes can sometimes command even higher prices.

Inside, the Constance 24 features a zippered pocket and a card slot, combining elegance with practicality.

Constance Elan

Estimated Retail Price: $15,990 USD

The Constance Elan stands out for its distinctive horizontal silhouette, measuring 23.5cm (W) x 13cm (H) x 3.5cm (D). Slightly wider than the Constance 24, it offers a sleek, refined look.

Its clutch-like shape also makes it ideal for evening occasions. Shortening the shoulder strap transforms it into a sophisticated party bag. Its horizontal proportions provide enough space to fit a long wallet, phone, planner, and other essentials, making it a fully capable main bag.

Introduced in 2010, the Constance Elan remains relatively rare in circulation, making it a sought-after choice for collectors. Its clean silhouette and Hermès-level elegance make it a versatile piece suitable for a variety of occasions.

Other Variations of the Constance Beyond Bags

Beyond handbags, the Constance line includes wallets, belts, and accessories, each infused with the signature “H” charm and unique appeal.

1. Wallets

Hermès Constance wallets feature the iconic “H” clasp and come in three styles: Slim, Compact, and Long. Since 2020, the Long model has included a strap, allowing it to function as a shoulder wallet.

• Long (20.5cm x 11.5cm x 3cm) includes card slots, a zippered pocket, and a bill compartment, making it an excellent choice for those who combine cash and cashless payments.
• Compact (13cm x 11cm x 5cm) mirrors the shape of a mini Constance bag. Its charming square form feels comfortable in the hand, and despite its small size, it offers generous storage. It fits perfectly inside a Constance 18.
• Slim (12.5cm x 10cm x D3cm), introduced in 2020, is even smaller and sleeker than the Compact. It includes a removable coin case, allowing for flexible use based on your needs.

2. Belts

Constance belts, featuring the signature “H” buckle, are among the most popular pieces in the line. Their clean, timeless design makes them suitable for both formal and casual wear, offering a subtle yet powerful way to incorporate Hermès’s prestige into everyday style.

For those who value fine leather in a belt, Constance belts are instantly recognizable as Hermès products, a testament to their quality craftsmanship. With a variety of buckle styles and colors available, they make excellent gifts for special occasions. Belt widths range from narrow to wide, adding to their versatility and appeal across genders.

3. Accessories

Miniature Constance bag accessories capture the essence of the original bag in a playful, wearable form. These petite designs, featuring the iconic “H” clasp, can be used as pendants or keychains, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any look.

The backside of each miniature bag is engraved with “HERMÈS,” adding authenticity and appeal for collectors. These accessories are perfect for those who enjoy subtle, stylish details with a playful edge.

Differences Between the Constance and Constance III

Model	Release Year	Size	Interior Layout	Back Pocket
Constance	Around 1969	More compact	No divider	Yes
Constance III	Around 2008	Slightly larger by a few centimeters	Divider included	No

 

The Constance line includes two distinct models released at different times. The original Constance, introduced around 1969, was succeeded by the Constance III in 2008. Both models remain available in the secondhand market, so understanding their differences will help you when looking for the perfect bag.

The original Constance is also known as the Constance I. Although the Constance III became the mainstream model from 2008 onward, the Constance I was never discontinued entirely. In 2022, Hermès relaunched it with a mirror detail.

The Constance III stands out for being slightly larger, offering increased storage capacity. The most notable structural differences between the two are the inclusion of a divider in the Constance III and the absence of a back pocket. These changes also resulted in subtle design adjustments.

Today, both models enjoy strong popularity. The Constance I remains a cherished classic, while the Constance III appeals as a modern version with enhanced practicality.

Recommended Ways to Purchase a Constance

With its timeless design and durable construction, the Constance is an investment piece designed to last a lifetime. It is a must-have for Hermès enthusiasts, style-conscious buyers, and anyone who values high-quality items that stand the test of time.

You can purchase a Constance from Hermès boutiques, resale marketplaces, or trusted secondhand retailers. Each option offers different advantages and drawbacks, so it’s essential to choose the method that best suits your needs.

Purchasing from a Hermès Boutique

Buying directly from a Hermès boutique is the most traditional option, but availability is limited. Like the Birkin and Kelly, the Constance rarely appears in store displays, and securing one often depends on timing and customer status—VIP clients tend to have better access.

Hermès’s official online store offers Constance belts but rarely lists handbags or wallets. Because the Constance is in high demand, it seldom appears online or in-store. That said, purchasing a Constance directly from Hermès ensures authenticity and allows you to acquire it at retail price—an advantage given the model’s rising value.

Purchasing Through Resale Marketplaces

Resale platforms allow individuals to set their own prices and sell directly to buyers. This method can be ideal for finding rare models or negotiating prices, and it’s sometimes less expensive than secondhand stores.

However, because transactions occur between individuals, there are inherent risks, such as delivery errors, counterfeit products, or undisclosed damage. Buyers should carefully confirm a product’s condition through comments and evaluate sellers’ reliability before purchasing.

Some resale platforms now offer authentication services for an additional fee, which is a smart way to ensure peace of mind when buying high-value items.

Purchasing from Trusted Secondhand Retailers

If you want a wide selection of colors and sizes with minimal risk, a reputable secondhand store is a solid choice. While certain Constance models can sell for more than retail, buying from a trusted dealer reduces the risk of counterfeits and allows you to confirm the bag’s condition.

Reliable stores often offer guarantees or return policies if authenticity is in question. When choosing a retailer, look for extensive Hermès purchase history, strict authentication standards, detailed product descriptions, and customer reviews.

Gallery Rare meets these standards, performing seven rigorous stages of authenticity checks to ensure buyers receive genuine products. Our mission is to provide high-quality Hermès items safely to new owners. Our online shop offers an extensive selection of Constance wallets, belts, bags, and accessories—making it worth exploring.

Three Stylish Ways to Wear the Hermès Constance

The Constance’s refined simplicity allows it to complement a wide range of looks. Here are three stylish ways to wear it:

1. Classic Elegance to Elevate Winter Style

The Constance 18 in blue indigo leather brings depth and character to a monochromatic winter outfit. Dark-colored Constance bags convey timeless elegance, while their compact size adds balance to the look.

Carrying a small luxury bag as a statement piece is a sophisticated way to elevate a casual look. Shortening the strap turns it into a chic handbag, adding a touch of formality. For the strongest effect, style a dark Constance with outfits in a restrained palette—think beige and deep tones—to let the bag’s elegance take center stage.

2. Elegant Minimalism for Formal Occasions

The Constance Elan’s horizontal shape makes it ideal for formal occasions. Its clutch-like form and clean lines create a sleek and sophisticated look.

Here, the bag is styled with a suit, perfectly suited to a professional setting. This Constance Elan features étoupe leather with a gold buckle and subtle white stitching for a refined yet charming detail.

When choosing a Constance, consider both the body color and buckle finish—gold creates a more polished, mature look, while silver offers versatility for both casual and formal settings.

3. Sophisticated Elegance with a Touch of Glamour

 

The Constance 24 is prized for its versatility, striking the perfect balance between style and practicality. Its well-proportioned size makes it an ideal everyday bag that complements a wide range of looks.

This styling showcases the Constance in craie, a smoky white with delicate gray undertones that exudes refined, understated elegance. Adding this shade to a darker winter ensemble introduces a touch of lightness without overwhelming the outfit. Paired with black trousers, craie creates a soft monochrome effect with a graceful, polished finish.

Conclusion: A Comparison of Hermès Constance Sizes

• The Constance handbag comes in four sizes and a variety of leathers.
• The Constance line also includes wallets, belts, and accessories.
• The main difference between the Constance I and Constance III is the presence of a divider and a back pocket.
• For a secure way to obtain the model you’re after, we recommend buying through a trusted secondhand retailer.
  

From petite statement pieces to functional everyday bags, the Constance offers unmatched versatility. Its range of sizes, premium leathers, and iconic “H” motif make it a timeless, adaptable accessory.

Its simple yet powerful presence complements any outfit, elevating your style. When searching for your perfect Constance, a reputable secondhand store with strict authentication—like Gallery Rare—ensures peace of mind and access to a carefully curated collection.

Wearing your Constance with confidence will open endless styling possibilities.

*Please note that the prices listed in our blog are for reference only and are converted from Japanese Yen (JPY) to US Dollars (USD) using the exchange rate of June 2025. Prices on the sales site include customs duties and shipping fees. Actual exchange rates may vary.