Hermès Birkin vs. Kelly: What Are the Differences?

The Hermès Kelly and Birkin are two of the brand’s most iconic handbags, both epitomizing luxury. At first glance, they may seem quite similar, leaving many wondering what truly sets them apart.

In this guide, we’ll explain the key differences between Kelly and Birkin and highlight some of the most popular models for both. Whether you're considering an investment piece or simply curious, this guide has everything you need to know.

How Do the Materials, Shapes, and Designs of the Hermès Kelly and Birkin Differ?

Birkin vs Kelly: Materials

While both the Birkin and Kelly are crafted from luxurious materials, the Birkin is typically made from higher-quality leather, which can make it slightly more expensive. 

For example, the price difference between the two bags in popular sizes, like the Togo 25 (Kelly: $10,100 USD; Birkin: $10,300 USD) or Togo Clemence 40 (Birkin: $13,600 USD), can easily be around $3,000 USD.

Materials for both include a mix of embossed leathers, such as Togo, Taurillon, and Epsom, and smooth options like Swift and Box Calf, giving both bags a luxurious feel and look.

Birkin vs Kelly: Shapes & Sizes

In terms of shape, the Kelly is more angular, featuring crisp, straight lines and a sharply defined trapezoidal shape. While still trapezoidal, the Birkin has a gentler curve at the top and more squared sides, making it wider and offering additional storage space. 

Both bags come in various sizes to suit different needs, with the Birkin available in 25cm, 30cm, 35cm, 40cm, and travel sizes. The Kelly offers a broader range, with sizes starting at 20cm and going up to 50cm, including 25cm, 28cm, 32cm, 35cm, and 40cm. Note that each bag's size refers to its base's length.

Birkin vs Kelly: Design

Design-wise, the Birkin features side straps for adjusting the bag's width and typically lacks interior dividers, making it easier to store items. On the other hand, the Kelly is more structured: the Sellier style has sharp, exterior-stitched seams for a clean, rigid construction, while the more relaxed Retourné style has softer, interior-stitched seams.

The handles are a key distinction between the two bags. The Birkin has two rolled leather handles, allowing it to be carried open like a tote, while the Kelly has one handle and must be held closed to avoid losing items. Neither bag's handles are long enough for shoulder wear, though the Kelly includes a detachable strap for added versatility.

Both bags share a similar top flap design, with a turn lock securing the closure. However, the Birkin’s flap has slits that allow the front handle to stand upright, adding to its open-tote feel, while the Kelly’s flap maintains a straight line that mirrors the bag’s structured silhouette.

How Do the Prices of the Hermès Kelly and Birkin Compare?

The Birkin is generally more expensive than the Kelly when comparing retail prices. Here's an overview of the price range for the Hermès Kelly and Birkin:

How Much Does the Kelly Cost?

• Kelly 25: $9,040 USD〜$9,730 USD
• Kelly 28: $9,730 USD〜$10,300 USD
• Kelly 32: $10,400 USD〜$13,700 USD
• Kelly 35: $11,300 USD
• Kelly 40: $12,300 USD
• Kelly 50: $16,300 USD

The retail price for a Kelly bag varies greatly depending on the model, typically ranging from around $9,000 USD〜$16,000 USD. On January 25, 2023, Hermès raised the prices, and the Kelly series saw an increase of nearly $1,000 . As a result, the bag's rarity and value have been rising steadily over the years. Even in the second-hand market, prices have increased, making the Kelly a great investment.

How Much Does the Birkin Cost?

• Birkin 25: $10,000 USD〜$44,500 USD
• Birkin 30: $11,200 USD〜$61,300 USD
• Birkin 35: $12,100 USD〜$70,400 USD
• Birkin 40: $13,600 USD

Birkin bags are considered a "wearable asset," adding to their appeal as valuable investments. Currently, the demand for Birkin bags exceeds supply, and their high rarity means they often sell for more than the retail price in the second-hand market. For example, a Birkin purchased 20 years ago might now fetch two to three times its original price.

When Were the Hermès Kelly and Birkin Bags Introduced?

Now, let's dive into the history of how the Hermès Kelly and Birkin bags came to be.

1. The Hermès Kelly

The Kelly bag was created in 1935, but it wasn’t until the mid-1950s, when actress Grace Kelly became the Princess of Monaco and was frequently seen carrying the bag, that it was renamed the "Kelly." This association helped cement the Kelly as a luxury handbag adored by celebrities and became a symbol of elegance and sophistication for many women.

At the time, the bag's zipper was revolutionary, as zippers were not common in high-end handbags. The zipper's practicality and innovation earned it the nickname "Hermès zipper," and it was highly regarded for its functionality.

2. The Hermès Birkin

The Birkin bag was created in 1984, inspired by a chance encounter between British actress and singer Jane Birkin and the CEO of Hermès. The story goes that Jane Birkin was carrying a wicker basket, its contents visible and unprotected. She mentioned how difficult it was to find a stylish yet practical bag that could hold all her essentials—including a baby bottle—while keeping everything organized.

Hearing this, the Hermès CEO immediately promised to create the perfect bag for her. The result was a bag with a flat, sturdy base for stability, combining elegance with a casual, effortless charm. Today, the Birkin is known as one of the world's most coveted and hardest-to-acquire handbags.

What Do the Hermès Kelly and Birkin Have in Common?

Both the Kelly and Birkin bags share signature Hermès design elements, including a front flap secured with straps and a turn-lock closure. They also feature iconic Hermès details such as the cadenas (lock) and clochette (key holder), adding both function and elegance.

While the two bags differ in their intended use and size variations, they are among Hermès’ most recognizable and sought-after handbags. Famously, they are also both available in the rare Himalayan variation.

Which Is More Popular: Hermès Kelly or Birkin?

Overall, the Birkin tends to be more well-known and in higher demand due to its spacious design and iconic status. However, as the Birkin becomes increasingly challenging to obtain and its retail price continues to rise, the Kelly has also been gaining popularity.

While the Birkin is often more recognizable by name, the Kelly’s structured shape makes it a versatile choice for both professional and casual settings, adding to its appeal. Their immense popularity has also led to a surge in imitations, including high-quality “super fakes” that closely mimic the originals, making authentication more crucial than ever.

Top 3 Most Popular Hermès Kelly Models

Here are three of the most sought-after Kelly models:

1. Kelly 25

Estimated Retail Price: $9,040 USD〜$9,730 USD
Dimensions: 25cm x 19cm x 9.5cm

The Kelly 25 is a compact, cute handbag that exudes femininity. Its small size makes it ideal as a secondary bag, often carried alongside a larger tote. It only fits the essentials, such as a mini wallet, key case, and a few makeup items.

With a detachable strap, the Kelly 25 seamlessly transitions from a stylish everyday bag to a chic evening handbag. It comes in both Sellier (exterior stitching) and Retourné (interior stitching) styles, offering a balance of structure and flexibility—neither too rigid nor too soft.

One of the most popular materials for this model is Togo leather, which is known for its smooth texture and versatility. Over time, Togo develops a richer character, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a timeless investment piece.

2. Kelly 28

Estimated Retail Price: $9,730 USD〜$10,300 USD
Dimensions: 28cm x 21cm x 11cm

The Kelly 28 is the most popular size due to its exceptional versatility. It can accommodate an A5 notebook, making it practical for daily use while maintaining an elegant silhouette.

Striking the perfect balance—not too small or too large—the Kelly 28 is ideal for formal occasions and sophisticated everyday wear. Its proportions also complement a wide range of heights, making it especially popular among younger women.

For the Kelly 28, classic gold remains the most popular color, while sophisticated shades like étoupe, black, and beige are also highly sought after. Popular leather choices include Togo, Taurillon Clemence, and Veau Epsom. Clemence is a softer alternative to Togo, allowing for durability and shape retention.
Kelly 28 bags in Togo leather are commonly found on the resale market, offering a chance to buy one even if it's unavailable at retail. Depending on the condition and production year, their resale value can remain high.

3. Kelly 32

Estimated Retail Price: $10,400~13,700 USD
Dimensions: 32cm x 23cm x 12cm

The Kelly 32 is one of Hermès’ most iconic and beloved handbags—it is the very one Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco used. With its elegant proportions and versatile size, it strikes an ideal balance between functionality and refinement.

Spacious enough to fit everyday essentials—like a 500ml water bottle—yet compact enough to remain polished, the Kelly 32 is ideal for both daily use and formal occasions. Unlike the Birkin, which has no 32 size, this model offers a unique middle ground that appeals to a wide range of users.

Timeless and sophisticated, the Kelly 32 is often crafted in classic leathers like Togo, Taurillon Clemence, and Epsom and is available in a range of colors, from bold hues to subtle neutrals.

Top 3 Most Popular Hermès Birkin Models

Here are three of the most sought-after Birkin models:

1. Birkin 25

Estimated Retail Price: $10,000 USD〜$44,500 USD
Dimensions: 25cm x 20cm x 13cm

The Birkin 25 is the most compact size in the Birkin range. Its 25cm width and spacious depth allow it to accommodate a long wallet easily. Other essential items, such as a smartphone and a handkerchief, fit perfectly, making it ideal for quick outings.

Its small size adds subtle sophistication, making it a versatile accessory to complement any outfit. A vibrant Birkin 25 can add a pop of color to a neutral look, taking your fashion game to the next level.
Due to its smaller handles, it’s not as easy to carry over the shoulder or arm, but for petite individuals, the Birkin 25 creates a balanced and flattering silhouette.

Whether you want to create a sleek, refined look, add a bold accessory to your outfit, or enhance your proportions, the Birkin 25 is a perfect choice.

2. Birkin 30

Estimated Retail Price: $11,200 USD〜$61,300 USD
Dimensions: 30cm x 22cm x 16cm

Slightly larger than the Birkin 25, the Birkin 30 has a well-proportioned design, with enough room for essentials like a planner, smartphone, and tablet. The handles are spacious enough for easy arm carrying, making it a practical choice.

The Birkin 30 is ideal for everyday use, effortlessly complementing both formal and casual outfits. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for first-time Birkin buyers or anyone looking for a classic size.
However, the bag may appear large when paired with more formal attire, such as dresses or sleek outfits. Therefore, it's recommended that you choose a size that best suits your fashion preferences and lifestyle.

3. Birkin 40

Estimated Retail Price: $13,600 USD
Dimensions: 40cm x 30cm x 21cm

The Birkin 40 is a popular choice for both men and women. Its generous size provides a balanced and stylish look, making it equally suited for men.

With plenty of storage space, the Birkin 40 works well as a travel bag. It easily fits essentials, a cosmetics pouch, and even a water bottle. When paired with a sleek, streamlined outfit, the bag stands out as the focal point of the look.

Its durable structure makes it a versatile option for any occasion, and its neutral colors—such as Gris Asphalt—are particularly popular. The vintage-inspired canvas material also enjoys strong appeal among men.

Birkin vs. Kelly: Which Bag Is Right for You?

When choosing between the Hermès Kelly and Birkin bags, it all comes down to personal preference and how you envision the bag fitting into your lifestyle. With its easy access and spacious interior, the Birkin is often the first choice for those looking for a practical, everyday bag. It’s especially popular for those who appreciate a more relaxed, iconic design. 

On the other hand, the Kelly’s structured form and elegant design make it a top choice for those who prefer a more polished, sophisticated look. With its optional shoulder strap, the Kelly is also ideal for those who need a versatile, hands-free option—the Retourné style allows for a relaxed look. In contrast, the Sellier style adds a formal and refined aesthetic to any outfit. 

For those who love the structure of the Kelly but prefer the accessibility of the Birkin, the Sellier Birkin—combining both styles—might be the perfect match. With both bags offering distinct advantages, many collectors find a place for both in their wardrobes.

Personal Style and Fashion Preferences

Your style plays a significant role when choosing between the Birkin and Kelly bags. The Birkin's relaxed, iconic design suits those who prefer a chic and laid-back vibe, while the Kelly’s more structured silhouette appeals to those seeking a sophisticated and refined look. The Birkin is often seen as the go-to for casual, everyday elegance, whereas the Kelly is favored for more formal, refined occasions.

Versatility: Formal vs. Casual

Both the Birkin and Kelly bags offer versatility but cater to different fashion sensibilities. The Birkin’s more casual and understated design works seamlessly across a wide range of settings, from casual outings to business meetings. Its spacious interior is ideal for daily use, travel, and even work. Meanwhile, with its structured, refined aesthetic, the Kelly is perfect for more formal settings and elegant evening events. The Kelly's detachable shoulder strap adds practicality, making it easier to transition from a handheld bag to a crossbody for more extended wear. Both bags come in various colors, sizes, and materials, allowing for personalization that complements different outfits and occasions.

Investment Value

The Birkin and Kelly bags are not just fashionable choices—they’re considered investment pieces. Due to their limited availability and high demand, both bags often appreciate over time. Factors like rarity, color, and material can significantly influence their resale price, with limited-edition releases or exotic materials commanding premium prices. 

While both bags perform well in the resale market, market trends and availability can lead to fluctuations. For instance, if there’s a higher supply of gold Birkins than Kellys, the latter might fetch a higher price. Ultimately, both bags are solid investments, but the choice depends on market conditions and personal preferences.

Conclusion: Birkin vs. Kelly

• The Kelly bag is crafted with an emphasis on elegance and beauty.
• Among Kelly models, the Kelly 25 is the most popular one.
• The Birkin bag prioritizes functionality and practicality.
• Among Birkin models, the Birkin 25 is the most popular one.

In this article, we’ve explored the key differences between the Hermès Kelly and Birkin bags and the most popular models of each. Both bags are highly coveted and represent timeless luxury. By understanding the unique features of each, you can make a more informed decision on which bag aligns with your style and needs. Whether you prefer the casual, spacious Birkin or the elegant, structured Kelly, both bags are exceptional additions to any wardrobe.

As purchasing them at retail price can be challenging, the resale market provides an excellent alternative. Gallery Rare offers both the Kelly and Birkin bags. If you’re looking for a specific style, size, or color, our concierge team can help you source the perfect bag.

For purchasing a Kelly or Birkin, Gallery Rare is a top recommendation!
*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 April 2025. Prices on the sales site include customs duties and shipping fees. Actual exchange rates may vary.