If you’re a fashion enthusiast, chances are you’ve heard of the infamous Kelly bag by Hermes. This iconic bag has been a symbol of luxury and status for decades, gracing the arms of celebrities and fashion icons alike.
But with its lofty price tag, many wonder just how much a Kelly in Hermes really costs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the price range of this coveted accessory.
The History of the Kelly Bag
Before we dive into the cost, let’s first explore the history behind this iconic purse. The Kelly bag was first introduced in 1935 under the name “Sac à dépêches,” which translates to “dispatch bag.” It wasn’t until 1956 when actress Grace Kelly was photographed carrying the bag that it became known as the “Kelly” and gained widespread popularity.
Today, the Kelly bag is one of Hermes’ most coveted designs and is available in a variety of colors, materials, and sizes. But with its high price point, it’s not an accessory that’s accessible to everyone.
The Cost of a Kelly Bag
So just how much can you expect to pay for a Kelly in Hermes? Well, that depends on a few factors including size, material, and hardware.
On average, a basic leather Kelly bag will start around $10,000 USD. However, if you opt for exotic materials such as crocodile or alligator skin or add special hardware like diamonds or gold plating, the cost can quickly skyrocket.
In fact, some limited edition versions of the Kelly have sold for over $100,000 USD! The most expensive Kelly ever sold was made from rare Himalayan crocodile skin and featured white gold hardware encrusted with over 200 diamonds. This one-of-a-kind piece sold for an astounding $432,000 USD at auction.
Factors That Affect Price
As mentioned, several factors can affect the price of a Kelly bag. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Material: The type of leather or exotic material used can significantly impact the cost. Exotic skins like crocodile and alligator are much rarer and therefore more expensive.
- Hardware: Special hardware like diamond-encrusted lockets or gold plating can add thousands of dollars to the price tag.
- Size: The larger the bag, the more material is required, which can increase the cost.
- Color: Certain colors or limited edition designs may be more sought after, which can drive up the price.
Is a Kelly Bag Worth the Investment?
For many fashion enthusiasts, owning a Kelly bag is a dream come true. However, with its high price tag, it’s important to consider whether it’s worth the investment.
On one hand, Hermes bags are known for their quality craftsmanship and timeless design. A well-maintained Kelly bag can last for decades and even appreciate in value over time.
On the other hand, some argue that spending tens of thousands of dollars on a purse is simply not justifiable. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and financial priorities.
The Bottom Line
So how much is a Kelly in Hermes? The answer varies depending on several factors but generally ranges from $10,000 to over $100,000 USD. Whether or not it’s worth the investment is up to you.
One thing is for sure – owning a Kelly bag is not just about owning an expensive accessory but also about owning a piece of fashion history and luxury craftsmanship that has stood the test of time.