Hermès’ timeless handbags are crafted from the best materials by expert artisans. It is no wonder, then, that the Maison’s unparalleled leather goods are a fixture in the closets of style icons across the globe. Hermès’ most popular bags include the Birkin, the Kelly, and the Constance; however, Hermès offers a greater variety of handbags than most clients realize. While Hermès does glamour well, the Maison is equally as talented at designing handbags of a more relaxed nature. Read on to learn about everyday handbags that are casual without sacrificing the quality and elegance of Hermès.
Evelyne: An equestrian necessity turned modern accessory
The Hermès Evelyne was created in 1978 by Evelyne Bertrand, Head of Hermes Riding Department. She created it as a carry-all for horse groomer tools and perforated “H” on one side so brushes and sponges could dry. The ventilated side of the Evelyne was meant to be worn against the equestrian’s body; however, now that the bag is considered a luxury good, the perforations are worn facing outwards. This Hermès bag is highly functional and sporty. The Evelyne comes in four generations or styles: Generation I, Generation II, Generation III, and the Evelyne Sellier. Generation I does not have an adjustable strap or an exterior pocket. Generation II also lacks the adjustable strap, but has an exterior pocket. Generation III has both an adjustable strap and an exterior pocket, making it the most functional Evelyne. The Sellier is the Evelyne reimagined: the perforations have been removed and replaced with a diamond-shape “H” printed on the front of the bag. The Generation III and the Sellier are the only two models still being produced. This Hermès bag comes in four sizes: 16 cm (formerly TPM), 29 cm (formerly PM), 33 cm (formerly GM), and 40 cm (formerly TGM). The functionality of this Hermès bag makes it well suited for travel or for use as a casual day bag.
Jypsiere: An elegant handbag to keep your hands free
Introduced in the Fall / Winter 2008 collection, this handbag was designed by none other than the celebrated Hermès’ Creative Director Jean Paul Gaultier. The Jypsière is a bag created for busy, modern life. It can be worn on your shoulder or as a crossbody. A mix of hunting bag and Birkin, JPG infused a sporty design with timeless elegance. This messenger bag features a frontal flap closure secured with a lock and a thick, adjustable shoulder strap. The interior is divided into several compartments, allowing the wearer to keep their necessities organized with ease. Sizes include 28 cm, 31 cm, 34 cm, and 37 cm. Materials for the Jypsière include classic Swift or Clemence calfskin and palladium-plated hardware. This Hermès bag was designed for the sophisticate seeking a more functional alternative to a larger handbag.
Sac Berline: A sporty handbag for those who live life at full speed
The Sac Berline premiered in the Hermès Fall / Winter 2011 collection. This sporty bag was inspired by automobile design, reflected in the quilting of the leather patch found on the front of the bag. This style was inspired by the leather seats of sports cars. The Sac Berline’s central leather accent comes in smooth or perforated calfskin. The Sac Berline also features the Kelly’s signature turn lock, which secures a front flap, and a curved silhouette. In 2013, Hermès added a mini size, creating an alternative to the original 29 cm handbag. The Sac Berline’s removable strap allows it to be worn as a crossbody, a shoulder bag, or a clutch. The Mini Sac Berline features a longer strap than the original. The Hermès bag opens to a large central pocket and a smaller zipper compartment in the back. The handbag is commonly found in Evercolor or Swift calfskin complemented by palladium-plated hardware. Those interested in purchasing a Sac Berline have a variety of colors to choose from including dual color-ways that offer contrasting piping or stitching.
Halzan: A discreet and portable wardrobe staple
This Hermès bag was first introduced in the Maison’s Fall / Winter 2014 collection. The Hermès Halzan is one of Hermès’ most versatile bags thanks to the multitude of ways it can be worn. The handbag’s front buckle can tuck away the top handle straps, transforming the Halzan from a hand-held bag to a shoulder bag or a crossbody. When worn this way, the handles resemble stirrups. This feature and the bag’s name itself – Halzan is a horse’s coat color – reference the Maison’s equestrian heritage. The Halzan can also have its strap removed entirely, which transforms the bag into a clutch. The Halzan is available in 25 cm and 31 cm as well as a mini size for a trendier feel. This Hermès bag is usually crafted from Swift or Clemence leather in colors such as Capucine, Orange, Jaune Poussin, and Rouge Casaque. The lack of branding on the Halzan makes it the perfect accessory for those seeking a more discreet designer bag.
24/24: A relaxed interpretation of old classics
The 24/24’s relaxed silhouette and inconspicuous design makes this bag Hermès’ answer to a more casual Birkin or Kelly. It was first introduced in 2018. Like the two more famous bags, the 24/24 has a front flap secured with a turn lock and a top handle. The 24/24 also comes with a detachable strap that clips onto two hooks on the back of the handbag, allowing the bag to be worn on the shoulder. Those looking to add this more understated Hermès bag to their collection have a variety of leathers and hardwares to choose from. The 24/24 can be found in Togo, Swift, Clemence, and Sombrero calfskin as well as gold-plated, palladium-plated hardwares. The 24/24 is offered in dual-toned styles that can also feature exotic skin accents. This Hermès bag is available in a 29 cm size and a 35 cm size.
