Hermes Kelly Mini Review, is it worth it in 2023?

After owning the Hermes Kelly Mini bag for a few months now, I thought it would be the perfect time to write a review and discuss if it’s really worth the hype. In my opinion, yes, I think the Hermes Kelly Mini bag is worth the price because of it’s a timeless design, the high quality leather, the craftsmanship and attention to detail is unparalleled, and finally the cross-body strap make it easy to wear on the go.

Hermes Kelly Mini Styled

Why the Hermes Kelly Mini is worth it

Close-up of a special order Hermes Kelly Mini aka as Hermes Kelly 20

I absolutely adore my Hermes Kelly Mini bag, which is also known as the Kelly 20. I can definitely see why it's extremely sought after and difficult to get your hands on. There are 3 main reasons why it’s worth the high price tag.

The first reason, why it’s worth the price, is due to the high quality craftsmanship. Hermes's artisans have done an incredible job creating a truly remarkable handbag, similar to a fine piece of art…beautiful. This beautiful mini bag is created by hand, by one person. Given the shape, the size, and the stellier stitching of this bag it is extremely hard to make, which is why artisans have to spend 2–5 years learning techniques before they can ever work on Hermes bags.

The second main reason is the bag is timeless and an investment worthy. It was released in 1930 and continues to grow in popularity year over year. No doubt in my mind, this bag will continue to be sought after for years to come. 

One of my favorite features about this mini bag is it has an attachable strap, allowing you to wear it cross-body and hands free. For me, I use the strap during the day, and then remove it during the evening for my night bag. As someone who is petite, 4’11 to be exact, it fits my frame perfectly as a cross-body bag!

Price

Pink Hermes Kelly Mini
angelbelle

As of 2023, in Epsom Leather with Sellier stitching, the retail price is $8,250 in the US and €6,700 in France.

The price depends on the leather you choose, exotic leathers are more expensive.

Remember, if you purchase this bag in France, you qualify for the Luxury Tax Refund of 12%

Size

20cm x 12cm x 6cm (8″ x 4.8″ x 2.5″)

What fits inside

What fits inside a Hermes Kelly Mini
hermescentral

Given how small this bag is, it can’t fit much, but it can hold essentials only! Things that fit inside: a credit cardholder or small wallet, a lipstick and your car keys.

It can barely fit my iPhone, however, I don’t want to stretch the leather so I don’t actually carry my iPhone in my bag.

Where to buy?

You can buy the Hermes Kelly Mini bag in store. This bag is not available for sale on the Hermes website. Read tips and insider secrets on how to buy a Hermes Bag in Store.

If you are looking to purchase a Vintage Hermes bag, then I definitely recommend you check out Fashionphile and WGACA as they both have great authentic vintage options.

What Color should you buy?

I highly recommend sticking to a neutral color. A neutral color makes it easier to style and in my opinion you’ll probably wear it more frequently. If you purchase a light color, be aware color transfer from your clothes can occur. 

gold hermes kelly mini bag
frau_mone

Is it a good investment?

Yes, the Hermes Kelly Mini bag is a great alternative investment. If you purchase the bag at retail price, you could resell it on the vintage handbag market for at least 2 times what you’ve paid for it. With that being said, make sure you take care of your bag and the box. 

For example: In Epsom Leather it’s retail price is $8,250 and on average the resale price of the bag is $30,000!

Final Thoughts

Orange Hermes Kelly 20 styled
© ginza.xiaoma

Overall, if you are considering purchasing a Hermes Kelly, it can fit all your essentials, you can wear it both day and night, plus it’s a great investment piece. This is one small designer bag, I highly recommend. Would love to hear your thoughts on this bag in the comments! 

Sincerely Petite in Paris,

Diane 

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