For Hermès, less is truly more. The brand's legendary Kelly bag made its debut in the 1930s, soaring in popularity after Grace Kelly carried it in the 1950s. As its smaller counterpart, the Mini Kelly 20 followed in 1957 with a medium-length shoulder strap. The iconic round top-handle style arrived in 1980.
By 1990, Hermès introduced the Mini Kelly 20 in a Retourne construction; production of the Mini Kelly ended in 2009. The Sellier-cut Mini Kelly 20 II followed with a more compact handle and narrower silhouette. While Mini Kelly bags have omitted locks and keys, shoulder straps remain intact. By 2000, the brand added double-loop hardware.
The Mini Kelly 20 is available in Chèvre Mysore and Epsom. A favorite for handbag interiors, Hermès occasionally uses the long-lasting Chèvre Mysore goatskin for its smaller bags. Costlier than calfskin leather, its natural character and fine grain ensure a luxurious finish. An embossed calfskin, Epsom is both lightweight and scratch-resistant.
Limited-edition Mini Kellys are also available in exotic skins, including Niloticus Crocodile, Ostrich, and Alligator. Rendered in both seasonal and permanent shades, Hermès also offers a variety of hues for its Mini Kelly bags. Special-order and tri-color releases, featuring personalized color combinations, are highly sought after by collectors.
Hermès Kelly 25 Chai and Mini Kelly 20 Ecorce
While the Mini Kelly 20 doesn't include a lock or hanging clochette, it features the iconic turn-lock closure. The base metal of the Hermès Kelly is brass, which is then expertly plated with precious metals, such as gold or palladium. Exclusive hardware styles include rose gold, permabrass, electrum, and gold finishes. Overall, Hermès selects hardware to complement and enhance each style.
The Mini Kelly 20 interior is fully lined with leather, and it features an interior slip pocket. It fits a smartphone, car keys, wallet, and lipstick. With a shortened trapezoid silhouette measuring 7.5 in x 5 in x 2.25 in, the Mini Kelly 20 conveys elegance and practicality with precise edges and a curved top handle. Designed to be carried by the top handle and doesn't fit on the arm or wrist. Still, the detachable matching shoulder strap offers a hands-free, cross-body carrying option.
Designed in regular leather, the Mini Kelly retails for about $8,000 in boutiques. Since in-store availability is scarce, demand in the resale market is booming. The Mini Kelly has evolved into a "holy grail" piece, with resale styles in immaculate condition starting at approximately $27,000.
Hermès Mini Kelly 20 Rouge De Coeur Epsom Gold Hardware
Hermès Mini Kelly 20 Ecorce Epsom Gold Hardware
Hermès Mini Kelly 20 Bleu Electrique Epsom Gold Hardware
Hermès Mini Kelly Etoupe and Kelly 25 Etoupe Epsom Gold Hardware
Rare and refined, Hermès Mini Kelly bags truly stand out for their exquisite craftsmanship and coveted status as a dream bag. It's the perfect addition to your collection, offering a timeless, in-demand style as well as a worthwhile investment. Explore our curated selection of authentic Hermes pieces.