The Complete Guide to the Hermès Herbag
Discover the Hermès Herbag, from its origins and materials to sizes, pricing, and collector appeal. A complete guide to one of Hermès’ most versatile handbags.
Brief Introduction to Hermès Bags
Founded in 1837 as a Parisian harness workshop, Hermès has built its reputation on uncompromising craftsmanship, functional elegance, and materials engineered to endure decades of use. While icons such as the Birkin and Kelly dominate headlines and auction records, Hermès’ quieter classics often offer some of the clearest insight into the Maison’s design philosophy.
The Hermès Herbag is one such example. Understated, practical, and deeply rooted in Hermès’ equestrian heritage, the Herbag occupies a unique position within the brand’s handbag ecosystem. Often described as a more casual counterpart to the Kelly, the Herbag blends structure with versatility, making it one of the most approachable and functional Hermès bags on the market today.
Key Takeaways: Hermès Herbag at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Introduced | 1980s (reintroduced as Herbag Zip in 2009) |
| Design DNA | Inspired by Hermès travel and equestrian bags |
| Materials | Officier canvas body, Vache Hunter leather flap |
| Signature Features | Detachable top, clou de selle closure, interchangeable canvas |
| Sizes | Zip 31, Zip 39, Cabine 50, Zip 52, Backpack |
| Retail Price (2026) | $3,525 (Zip 31) ; ~$4,550 (Zip 39) |
| Secondary Market Range | ~$3,900–$4,100 for store-fresh examples |
| Collector Appeal | Appreciated for heritage design, versatility, and understated entry into Hermès ownership |
The Origins of the Hermès Herbag
The Herbag first appeared in the 1980s as a practical canvas-and-leather bag designed for everyday use. Unlike Hermès’ fully leather handbags, the Herbag emphasized lightness, durability, and adaptability. Its design references earlier Hermès travel bags and the iconic Haut à Courroies, reinforcing the brand’s long-standing connection to mobility and equestrian culture.
After being discontinued in the mid-2000s, the Herbag returned in 2009 as the Herbag Zip. This updated version refined the original concept with subtle but important functional improvements, ensuring the bag remained relevant for contemporary lifestyles while preserving its original spirit.
What Makes the Hermès Herbag Distinct
At first glance, the Hermès Herbag’s resemblance to the Kelly is unmistakable. Both share a structured trapezoidal silhouette, a top flap secured with the clou de selle turn-lock, and a clean, architectural profile. Where the Herbag distinguishes itself is in construction and purpose.
The body of the Herbag is crafted from Officier canvas, a tightly woven cotton canvas originally developed for durability and ease of use. This is paired with a Vache Hunter leather flap and handle structure, a stiff and resilient leather that develops a subtle patina over time. Together, these materials create a bag that is significantly lighter than all-leather Hermès handbags, making it especially appealing for daily wear and travel.
The Herbag Zip introduced an external zip pocket beneath the flap, a rear slip pocket for easy-access essentials, and a removable interior pouch. Collapsible handles and a detachable shoulder strap further enhance the bag’s versatility.
A True Two-in-One Design
One of the most distinctive features of the Hermès Herbag is its modular construction. The leather top structure can be detached from the canvas body, allowing owners to interchange canvas shells. This design transforms a single Herbag into multiple looks, depending on the canvas selected.
Hermès has released the Herbag in a wide range of solid canvas colors, as well as limited-edition designs that appeal to collectors seeking something more playful. Notable examples include graphic motifs and themed releases such as Pegase Pop and H Vibration variations. This adaptability is rare within the Hermès lineup and adds a layer of personalization that few other models offer.
Hermès Herbag Sizes and Formats
The Herbag family includes several sizes tailored to different lifestyles. The Herbag Zip 31 and Zip 39 are the most commonly encountered and are well suited to everyday use. Their proportions allow for daily essentials while maintaining a polished silhouette.
For travel, the Herbag Cabine 50 and Zip 52 offer generous capacity and lightweight construction, making them ideal carry-on companions. Hermès has also introduced a Herbag backpack version, appealing to collectors seeking a more relaxed, hands-free option that still carries the Maison’s signature refinement.
Across all formats, the Herbag retains its defining characteristics: canvas body, leather top, and understated hardware.
Hermès Herbag Pricing and Market Performance
At Hermès boutiques, the Herbag is positioned as one of the brand’s most accessible handbags. As of 2026, current retail pricing is approximately $3,525 for the Herbag Zip 31 and $4,550 for the Zip 39, though availability can vary by boutique and region.
On the secondary market, store-fresh Herbags typically command a modest premium over retail, often ranging between $3,900 and $4,100 for the 31 and 39 sizes. Unlike Birkin or Kelly bags, the Herbag is not driven by speculative demand, which contributes to its reputation as a practical entry point into Hermès ownership rather than a status-focused acquisition.
The Hermès Herbag stands as one of the Maison’s most practical and quietly sophisticated designs. Rooted in Hermès’ equestrian heritage and refined through modern functionality, it offers an alternative perspective on luxury that prioritizes craftsmanship, adaptability, and everyday elegance. For collectors seeking a versatile Hermès bag with enduring appeal, the Herbag remains a compelling choice.
Hermès Herbag FAQs
What is the difference between the Hermès Herbag and the Kelly?
While the Hermès Herbag and Kelly share a similar trapezoidal shape and clou de selle closure, they differ significantly in construction and purpose. The Kelly is crafted entirely from leather and positioned as a formal handbag, while the Herbag combines Officier canvas with a Vache Hunter leather top, making it lighter, more relaxed, and better suited for daily wear and travel.
Is the Hermès Herbag discontinued?
No. The original Herbag was discontinued in the mid-2000s, but it returned in 2009 as the Herbag Zip. The Herbag Zip remains part of Hermès’ broader handbag offering, though availability may vary by boutique and season.
How much does a Hermès Herbag cost?
As of 2026, at Hermès boutiques the Herbag Zip 31 in Officier canvas retails for approximately $3,525, while the Herbag Zip 39 is priced around $4,550. On the secondary market, store-fresh examples typically trade at a modest premium over retail, generally ranging from $3,900 to $4,100 depending on size and condition.
Why is the Hermès Herbag considered a two-in-one bag?
The Herbag’s leather top structure can be detached from the canvas body, allowing owners to interchange different canvas shells. This modular construction enables multiple looks from a single bag, a feature that is uncommon within the Hermès handbag lineup.
Is the Hermès Herbag a good entry-level Hermès bag?
Yes. The Hermès Herbag is widely regarded as one of the most accessible entry points into Hermès handbags. Its lower price point relative to fully leather models, combined with its versatility and craftsmanship, makes it appealing to first-time Hermès collectors.
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