Hermes Mini Kelly - Everything you need to know

The Hermes Mini Kelly is one of the most coveted bags in the world. Let’s talk a little bit about what makes it so special, how much is a mini kelly Hermes, and why is it so hard to get? The Hermes Mini Kelly is highly popular and in great demand among fashion enthusiasts.

The thing with the Hermes Mini Kelly is that is it really fits nothing but a lip gloss - not even your phone. So what makes this bag so highly desirable? I myself love the mini Kelly, and I think it is because the fact that is it mini really speaks to the modern sentiment of having a bag for the sake of fashion and art, and not for practicality. This is the ultimate status symbol, to be carrying a bag that serve no practical purpose, at such a high cost, gives the perfect allure of mystique and even provokes speculation. It is also an elegant choice for a dinner date, adding a touch of sophistication to any occasion.

To really drive this point, let’s take a look back at when the Hermes mini Kelly was first introduced. Prior to 1957, the smallest Kelly was the Hermes Kelly 25, but in 1957 Hermes released the Hermes Kelly 20cm. Even though it was so small, it spoke to women and perhaps made them feel a certain level of freedom in the Hermes mini Kelly. The Hermes Kelly bag, designed by Robert Dumas, became iconic after being photographed with Grace Kelly.

Today, the Hermes Mini Kelly is arguably one of the most coveted Hermes handbags and amongst the bags fetching the highest resale value ever. Even more than a Birkin in some cases. It appeals greatly to collectors who are passionate about adding rare items to their collection.

The Hermes Mini Kelly 20 is a stunningly small Hermes classic handbag beautifully crafted in various leathers and colours. The gold hardware on some models adds a rich complement to the bag's design.

An Hermes mini Kelly only comes in the Sellier style. It’s design has all the Kelly model features minus just the clochette, because it is so mini! It has a single rolled leather top handle secured with hardware with gussets to attach an optional leather shoulder strap included. Brighter colors like green and pink often sell at lower prices compared to pastels or classic neutrals.

The traditional Kelly turn-lock secures the small flap. The interior is composed of soft leather and features one flat slip pocket.

So how do you acquire an Hermes Mini Kelly? This mini shoulder bag is the hardest to get from the Hermes boutique. It is in such high demand and on everyone’s wishlist, it is truly like winning the lottery if you get offered a mini Kelly. The legacy of the Hermès brand and the bag's value make it a highly sought-after item.

A lot of people end up turning to the second hand market to acquire an Hermes mini Kelly. Of course, you will be paying a premium, but the premium on these bags really matches the amount of pre-spend you would have to do directly in the boutique to be considered to be offered a mini Kelly. Part of the popularity behind the mini Kelly is the scarcity of it. Even on the resale market it is hard to find, Hermes really guards this bag like a precious jewel and hold it for their VIPs. So naturally, the resale market mimicks this and if there is a mini Kelly available, they offer it to their own circle of VIPs first. or of course if a client request to have a mini Kelly sourced, there is such a premium because everyone wants to gatekeep their mini Kelly’s. Many vintage Mini Kelly bags have been sold at record prices, reflecting their increasing value over the years.

An Hermes Mini Kelly is most coveted bag of any bag out there and instantly recognizable! The bag can be worn over the shoulder or carried by hand, showcasing its versatility. I would love to know if you are desperately seeking an Hermes mini Kelly and if so what colour or leather are you wanting it in!