A lesser talked about Hermès handbag, but a style staple nonetheless, the Herbag was first launched on the market back in the 1980s, before being discontinued and then relaunched again in 2009.
As such, there are two different markets around the Hermès Herbag – those who loved the original, and those who are very much here for the comeback. Regardless of which camp you fall into though, the Herbag is renowned for being a more accessible Hermès investment and a bag that is not only more affordable compared to others but also more versatile in its design and use.
Let’s take a closer look at why…
Why Is the Herbag a Great Hermès Bag?
The Herbag boasts some of the hallmarks of the Hermès Kelly bag in terms of its shape and structure, yet boasts a design that is often referred to as the two-in-one. Two different materials are used in the design and creation of this bag, optimising its functionality while also giving it that sleek and clean look that is so popular among buyers.
Other reasons why this bag is such a good option for first-time buyers include the plethora of different colours and finishes that are available to choose from, the personalisation available to customers (more on this in the next section), and of course the fact that the Herbag remains an integral part of a historically prominent brand.
Hermès is not just a style staple, it’s also one of the leading luxury brands in the world. To own an authentic Hermès bag is a symbol of status and prestige, with the outward design and structure of the Hermès bag giving it a silhouette that is reputable and recognisable.
Key Features of the Herbag
Moving on from the selling points of this bag as both a fashion accessory and an investment, it’s well worth focussing on some of the key features of this particular collection.
The Herbag is synonymous with everyday luxury, insofar as it combines the trapezoid shape with a flexible and relaxed structure. However, by far the most exciting and innovative thing about the Herbag is the fact that the leather top and clasp of the bag can actually be detached from the canvas body and attached to a different bag. Buyers can therefore invest in different replacement canvas bags and mix and match the luxury leather fastenings and hardware amongst those different bags – increasing the long-term investment value and personalisation of the bag.
This makes the Herbag one of the most interactive bags on the entire luxury market and gives Hermès a truly unique selling point for its more affordable range.
Aside from this leading feature, other notable components and elements of the Herbag design include the selection of sizes and the extra pockets that are mainly found across the modern pieces that form part of the re-released collection.
Herbag Sizes
When seeking your very own starting bag in the luxury sector, size matters. You want to find a handbag that speaks to your lifestyle and to the kind of accessory that you will not only enjoy owning but also enjoy using.
Hermès buyers are often split between those who love using their bags and those who buy them for investment purposes – but when shopping for your own break into the market, we believe you should find a piece that works for you and your style.
The smallest Herbag is the Herbag Zip 31, with the next everyday bag being the Zip 39 (the best size if you carry around a laptop and other accessories). From there, we have the Herbag Cabin bag, and the Weekend bag for extended getaways.
The names, sizes, and primary uses of these bags more than hint at their practical design. The use of canvas isn’t just versatile from a design standpoint – it’s also heavily versatile from a user perspective. Canvas is durable, and while the leather across the top of the bag still requires extensive care and is prone to scratches, for the most part this is more of an everyday bag that can be proactively used.
Price Point and Accessibility
Moving on then to price point and to the accessibility of the Herbag range, for a first-time buyer this is considered a stepping stone into the Kelly and even the Birkin market. It’s an opportunity to own and look after an authentic and genuine Hermès bag while you sit on the waitlist for other models and sit at the lower end of the market in terms of retail value and cost.
Having said that, the demand for Hermès bags means that you can’t always find the exact model that you want to take home. The retail stores do not stock many of each collection – with Hermès propping much of its demand on the lack of supply and the high demand among consumers.
Add to that the design brief that closely mimics that of the Kelly bag in particular, and you will find that the rising demand for these bags will make different models even harder to get hold of, not least once you add the limited stock of exclusive bags with unique materials and finishes.
Suffice to say, the Herbag is a good place from which to start your collection of Hermès handbags – but first, you need to find a reputable stockist with access to a range of different pieces to choose from. Always take care when browsing second-hand and preloved goods that they are authentic and come with all the right certification – and check the condition before parting with your money.