Hermès Birkin Size Guide: Find Your Perfect Bag & Style
Introduced in 1981, the Hermès Birkin has won the hearts of fashion enthusiasts worldwide with its refined design and exceptional quality. Today, the Birkin is available in a wide range of sizes and materials, offering buyers more variety than ever when searching for the perfect design.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Birkin—examining how its usability changes by size, the different occasions each is suited for, and highlighting popular materials and styling ideas.
What Is the Hermès Birkin?
The Birkin bag was officially released in 1984 by Hermès, the historic French luxury brand. Named after the beloved fashion icon, singer, and actress Jane Birkin, the bag is often regarded as a symbol of Hermès.
Jane herself shared the famous story behind the Birkin’s creation. On a flight to London, she happened to be seated next to Jean-Louis Dumas, then chairman of Hermès. After Jane dropped the contents of her bag, Dumas offered, “I’ll make you a bag with pockets.” From this chance meeting, the Birkin was born.
At the time, neither Jane nor Dumas could have imagined that the bag would go on to become one of the most iconic handbags in the world. Although Jane Birkin passed away in July 2023, her legacy endures through the legendary bag that carries her name.
The Craftsmanship Behind the Birkin
The Birkin is renowned as a handbag that embodies Hermès’s uncompromising commitment to craftsmanship. The leathers are carefully sourced from the most prestigious tanneries, with only the finest quality hides selected for production.
Each Birkin is handcrafted entirely by a single artisan, a practice that has become one of the bag’s defining characteristics. Because one craftsperson is responsible for every step of the process, subtle differences in stitching can be seen from bag to bag. This meticulous, hands-on approach makes mass production impossible.
As a result, the Birkin is produced in limited numbers, while demand exists worldwide—making it one of the most exclusive and highly valued handbags available today.
A Bag Not Everyone Can Own
The Birkin is not a handbag that just anyone can purchase. With a price tag of over $6,760 USD, it is undeniably selective in terms of cost. But even for those with the financial means, owning one is far from guaranteed.
In most Hermès boutiques, Birkins are rarely kept in stock that is visible to the public. Even when they are available, they are usually stored in the back and never displayed on the sales floor. Their existence is disclosed only to select clients—those who have made multiple purchases and established a trusted relationship with the brand.
In other words, the Birkin is reserved for recognized customers with proven purchase history. This exclusivity is what makes the bag truly special. For those who finally succeed in acquiring one, the Birkin becomes more than just a handbag—it is a treasure as precious as a jewel.
Hermès Birkin Size Guide: Comparing 25, 30, 35, and 40
The Hermès Birkin comes in several sizes, with the 25, 30, 35, and 40 being the most well-known. As the number increases, so does the size of the bag. Here, we’ll take a detailed look at each size and its unique characteristics.
1. Hermès Birkin Size 25
The Birkin 25 is a compact bag, measuring 25 cm across. Its full dimensions are 25cm (W) x 20cm (H) x 13cm (D), giving it a small, delicate appearance.
The hand holes are designed to be small, making it difficult to carry on the arm, so it is typically held by hand. Inside, it can fit only the essentials: a wallet, a smartphone, and a small pouch. If you want to carry a water bottle, a 500 ml bottle will only fit if the flap is left open, so a 350 ml bottle is recommended.
Because it is carried by hand, the Birkin 25 naturally adds an elegant touch to any outfit. Its refined size makes it ideal for small parties or special occasions. Pairing it with a stylish dress can emphasize its charmingly petite proportions.
The small size also makes it well-suited for petite individuals. Neutral shades, such as black or étoupe, add a sophisticated touch, while bold colors, like red or pink, can be used as a statement accent in your wardrobe.
2. Hermès Birkin Size 30
The Birkin 30 is particularly popular. Measuring 30cm (W) x 22cm (H) x 16cm (D), this size is versatile for everyday use. It complements the frame of petite women and can comfortably hold essentials like a wallet, smartphone, and tablet, making it an ideal first Birkin.
Unlike the Birkin 25, it can be carried on the arm, which is one of its main appeals. With enough room for daily essentials, it works equally well in business and casual settings. However, weighing around 900 grams, it can feel heavy if overpacked.
The Birkin 30 blends seamlessly with almost any outfit, adding elegance whether you’re wearing casual attire, such as T-shirts and jeans, or formal outfits, like dresses and suits. For Birkin enthusiasts, this is a must-have size.
3. Hermès Birkin Size 35
The Birkin 35 is well-suited for business. At 35cm (W) x 25cm (H) x 18cm (D), it is large enough to fit A4 documents, as well as a tablet and smartphone. If you’re looking for a work bag that combines functionality and elegance, this is an excellent choice.
Compared to the 25 and 30, which are particularly suited to smaller frames, the Birkin 35 makes a noticeably larger impression. It weighs over 1 kg, and when filled, the weight can be substantial, so consider what you carry if you’ll be holding it for extended periods.
Its larger size also accentuates the quality and sophistication of the Birkin. The premium leather and structured form become even more apparent, showcasing the bag’s signature elegance. This size is ideal for those who want a Birkin that suits both professional and personal settings.
4. Hermès Birkin Size 40
The Birkin 40 is the largest standard size, measuring 40cm (W) x 30 cm (H) x 20cm (D). To put it in perspective, the width of a Birkin 30 is roughly the same as the height of a Birkin 40.
Like the Birkin 35, it weighs over 1kg, and when packed, the weight can be substantial. However, it offers ample capacity, easily fitting a laptop, making it suitable as a travel bag. Men more commonly choose it due to its size and weight.
The Birkin 40 can also be seen on stylish women, as many female celebrities in Western countries favor larger bags. They tend to carry it casually rather than handling it delicately, demonstrating that this larger size is practical for everyday use. Its generous capacity allows it to accommodate almost anything, combining convenience with style.
What Is the Most Popular Birkin Size?
While the Birkin 35—closely modeled on the original 1984 bag made for Jane Birkin—was long considered the standard, its larger size has led to a decline in popularity in recent years as trends shifted toward smaller bags. Still, the Birkin 35 remains beloved, particularly in regions like the United States and Europe, where larger bags are often preferred.
The Birkin 30, introduced in 1996, has then become the most popular and versatile size in the Birkin lineup. Its compact yet practical dimensions make it ideal for carrying daily essentials, including a small laptop, which is why it has become a favorite among many buyers.
Meanwhile, the Birkin 25 took longer to gain traction but has steadily grown in demand, especially in Asia, where petite bags are favored. Today, it is the most sought-after bag in the Birkin lineup.
Size-Specific Birkin Outfits: Three Styling Ideas
The impression a Birkin makes can vary greatly depending on its size. Here are three styling examples to show how each size can be worn.
1. Birkin 25: A Pop of Color
This Birkin 25 in the vibrant green “Vert Yucca” brightens a simple navy-and-gray outfit. Its small size concentrates the fresh color, making it the perfect accent piece.
Smaller bags like the Birkin 25 can also function as accessories, and this styling demonstrates that advantage. Carrying it with the flap open adds a casual, effortless feel. Despite its compact size, the bag’s deep structure gives it a strong presence.
Carried by hand or on the arm, the Birkin 25 naturally exudes elegance. Petite women will find it easy to carry, and it works well for both everyday and special occasions, making it a versatile and practical choice.
2. Birkin 30: The Ideal Size
The Birkin 30 strikes the perfect balance—not too large, not too small—and looks flattering on most heights. Many consider the 30 to be the ideal first Birkin.
One limitation: at 30cm wide, it may not be ideal for formal evening parties at luxury hotels or restaurants, but it works perfectly for casual gatherings with friends.
This size is versatile across colors and materials, but for maximum usability in a variety of situations, classic colors like black or beige are recommended for optimal performance. Yellow-brown adds a cheerful note, while brighter tones can act as a stylish accent, similar to the Birkin 25.
While most Birkin leathers resist scratches well, ostrich leather is exceptionally durable, making it ideal for those who want a bag that can withstand frequent use.
3. Birkin 35: Perfect for Work and Everyday Use
The Birkin 35 accommodates A4 documents, making it a practical choice for business use. Paired with a suit, the bag elevates even simple outfits, adding sophistication and polish. For professional use, neutral colors like black or brown are ideal—even in understated shades, the Birkin’s elegance enhances the wearer’s presence.
If you're looking for a bag suitable for both work and leisure, the popular gold color is a great option. Its caramel-like warmth offers a unique charm, and when paired with gold hardware, it exudes both subtle luxury and elegance.
Since the Birkin 35 is slightly larger, it’s ideal for customization. Adding scarves or charms—such as the popular Rodeo—allows you to personalize your bag, creating a unique Birkin that reflects your style.
Three Popular Hermès Birkin Leathers and Their Features
Hermès Birkins are crafted from a wide variety of leathers, each reflecting the meticulous attention to detail of Hermès artisans. Here, we’ll highlight three of the most popular leathers and explain what makes them special.
1. Togo
Togo leather was introduced by Hermès in 1997. It comes from young bull calves and is officially known as Veau Crispé Togo. Among Hermès’s cowhides, Togo is one of the most popular choices.
Togo’s defining feature is its deeply and finely grained texture, which adds a touch of elegance and blends beautifully with any color. It is resistant to scratches and maintains its shape well, making it suitable for almost any occasion; its durability has earned it the reputation of being easy to use. The subtle, refined sheen is another hallmark of this material.
Togo is soft to the touch yet highly durable, which is why it is often used for small leather goods as well. The leather’s combination of elegance and sturdiness makes it a popular choice for a first Birkin; so if you own several Birkins, having one in Togo is highly recommended.
From a distance, Togo may appear to have long vertical lines, which are natural blood vessel markings. These are unique to Togo and are rarely seen in other leathers, making them a distinctive characteristic.
2. Swift
Swift leather, officially called Veau Swift, also comes from young bull calves. Hermès introduced Swift in 2006 as the successor to Veau Gulliver. While Gulliver was named after the famous story Gulliver’s Travels, Swift is named after the story’s author, Jonathan Swift.
Swift’s standout feature is its incredibly soft texture that seems to almost cling to the hand. While all Hermès leathers are impressively smooth, Swift is exceptionally so, often surprising those who touch it for the first time. Despite its softness, it strikes the perfect balance of elasticity and suppleness, reflecting Hermès’s signature elegance.
Swift leather also has excellent color vibrancy. Every hue appears rich and vivid, and bright colors in particular bring out the beauty of the leather. Over time, Swift develops a unique patina, making it a leather that grows more beautiful with age.
3. Epsom
Epsom leather, officially known as Veau Epsom, is derived from bullhide and was developed as a successor to the previously popular Courchevel leather. It is characterized by its finely stamped grain, which is even smaller than Togo’s, and its firm, structured nature that helps maintain the bag’s shape.
Compared to other leathers, Epsom is relatively lightweight, making it ideal for larger Birkins, such as the 35, where weight can be a concern. It is also durable and water-resistant, making it versatile for a wide range of situations. Because it retains its shape so well, Epsom is efficient for business use.
If you’re looking for a Birkin that is light, sturdy, and versatile enough to take anywhere, Epsom is an excellent choice. Soft colors appear bright and vibrant on this leather, making it perfect for pastel Birkins and giving the bag a gentle, airy tone.
Conclusion: Hermès Birkin Size Comparison
- The Birkin 30 suits most women and remains the most popular size in the lineup.
- For business use, the Birkin 35 is recommended because it can fit A4-sized documents.
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Popular leathers include Togo, Swift, and Epsom.
The most commonly used Birkin sizes are 25, 30, 35, and 40. Among these, the Birkin 30 is widely regarded as the most suitable for many women; so if you’re unsure which size to choose, the 30 is a safe and versatile option.
The larger sizes, such as the Birkin 35 and 40, offer more carrying capacity but are heavier; choosing a lighter leather can therefore help manage the weight. For business use, the Birkin 35 is ideal, as it can accommodate A4 documents.
The leather you choose also affects the bag’s character and style, making the process of selecting a material that reflects your personal taste one of the most enjoyable aspects of owning a Birkin.
*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.