hermes kelly 1990 | second hand Hermes kelly bags

The Hermes Kelly, a symbol of timeless sophistication and understated luxury, continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. While contemporary versions hold immense appeal, the allure of vintage Kelly bags, particularly those crafted in the 1990s, is experiencing a significant surge in popularity. A Hermes Kelly 1990, in its own right, represents a pivotal era, embodying the classic design principles while carrying the unique character of its age. This article delves into the enduring appeal of the Hermes Kelly 1990, explores its remarkable appreciation in value, and navigates the landscape of acquiring a pre-loved treasure.

The Enduring Allure of the Hermes Kelly

Before examining the specifics of the Hermes Kelly 1990, it’s crucial to understand the bag's historical significance and enduring design principles. The story began in the 1930s when Robert Dumas, Émile Hermès’ son-in-law, designed the "Sac à Courroies pour dames" (Ladies’ Bag with Straps). This trapezoidal-shaped leather bag, initially intended for equestrian pursuits, featured a top handle, two triangular gussets, a flap closure, and a swivel clasp.

The bag's fate took a glamorous turn in 1956 when Grace Kelly, the Princess of Monaco, famously used it to shield her pregnancy from the paparazzi. The image, splashed across magazine covers worldwide, catapulted the bag to instant fame. Hermes officially renamed it the "Kelly" in 1977, solidifying its status as a symbol of elegance, status, and timeless style.

The Kelly's appeal lies in its impeccable craftsmanship, the quality of materials, and its understated yet undeniably luxurious design. Each bag is meticulously handcrafted by a single artisan in Hermes' workshops, requiring hours, sometimes even days, of painstaking work. The meticulous attention to detail, the precise stitching, and the selection of the finest leathers contribute to the bag's longevity and its ability to withstand the test of time.

The Hermes Kelly 1990: A Vintage Treasure

A Hermes Kelly 1990 represents a specific moment in the bag's history. It carries the hallmark craftsmanship of the era, often featuring subtle nuances that distinguish it from more recent productions. While the core design remains consistent, a Kelly from the 1990s might exhibit slight variations in the leather grain, the hardware finish, or the stitching details. These subtle differences contribute to the bag's unique character and appeal to collectors seeking a piece of Hermes history.

The leather used in Kelly bags from the 1990s, sourced from the finest tanneries, is known for its durability and its ability to develop a beautiful patina over time. This patina, a soft sheen that forms on the leather's surface with use, adds to the bag's character and tells a story of its journey.

Furthermore, a Kelly 1990 often carries a sense of history and provenance. It might have been owned by someone who appreciated its beauty and craftsmanship, adding to its narrative and making it a truly special piece. Owning a Hermes Kelly 1990 is not just about owning a handbag; it's about owning a piece of fashion history.

The Kelly Bag: A Variety of Models

The Kelly Bag comes in more than ten sizes, the most common being the 25cm, 28cm, 32cm, and 35cm. Each size offers a different aesthetic and level of practicality, catering to varying needs and preferences.

* Kelly 25: The smallest and arguably the most coveted size, the Kelly 25 is perfect for evening events or for those who prefer a minimalist approach to carrying essentials. Its compact size makes it incredibly chic and easy to handle.

* Kelly 28: Slightly larger than the 25, the Kelly 28 offers a bit more room for everyday essentials while still maintaining a refined and elegant silhouette.

* Kelly 32: Considered a classic and versatile size, the Kelly 32 is ideal for everyday use. It provides ample space for essentials without being too bulky.

* Kelly 35: The largest of the commonly available sizes, the Kelly 35 is perfect for those who need to carry more items or prefer a more substantial bag. It's often favored for travel or professional use.

Beyond size, the Kelly also comes in two distinct styles: the Sellier and the Retourne.

* Sellier: This style is characterized by its rigid construction and sharp edges. The stitching is visible on the exterior, giving it a more structured and formal appearance.hermes kelly 1990

* Retourne: This style is more relaxed and slouchy. The bag is turned inside out during the manufacturing process, resulting in softer edges and a less structured feel.

The choice between Sellier and Retourne is a matter of personal preference, with each style offering a unique aesthetic appeal.

The Remarkable Appreciation in Value: An Investment Piece

One of the most compelling reasons to consider a Hermes Kelly 1990 is its remarkable appreciation in value. In recent years, the second-hand Hermes Kelly market has experienced a significant boom, with prices steadily climbing. According to industry reports, the average price of a second-hand Hermes Kelly has increased by approximately 240% in the past 10 years. This impressive growth makes the Kelly bag not just a fashion statement, but also a tangible investment.