Kelly is one of the most iconic handbags in the world and a symbol of luxury and elegance. But who is Kelly, and why is this bag named after her?
The Origins of the Kelly Bag
The story begins in the mid-20th century when Robert Dumas, the artistic director of Hermès, was traveling on a plane with Grace Kelly, an American actress who later became Princess Grace of Monaco. The story goes that Kelly was using her Hermès Sac à dépêches to shield herself from paparazzi when she accidentally spilled the contents of her bag. Dumas saw this and offered to create a larger bag for her that would be both practical and stylish.
The Design
The design for the new bag took inspiration from Hermès’ Sellier saddlebags, featuring a trapezoid shape with sharp edges and a sturdy handle. It was made from high-quality leather or exotic materials like crocodile skin and featured a turn-lock closure with a signature padlock. The interior of the bag was spacious enough to fit all of Kelly’s essentials.
The Popularity
After its creation, the bag quickly gained popularity among fashion-conscious women worldwide. It became associated with Grace Kelly’s elegance and sophistication, as she was often seen carrying it during public appearances. In 1977, Hermès officially renamed the Sac à dépêches to the “Kelly” in honor of Princess Grace.
The Different Styles and Sizes
Today, there are several different styles and sizes of the Kelly bag available at Hermès boutiques worldwide. The classic size is known as “Kelly 28,” but there are also smaller sizes like “Kelly 25” and larger sizes like “Kelly 40.” The bags come in various materials such as leather, crocodile skin, ostrich skin, lizard skin, and more.
The Significance
The Kelly bag is more than just a fashion accessory; it represents the craftsmanship and heritage of Hermès. Each bag is handcrafted by skilled artisans who spend hours cutting, stitching, and assembling each piece. The process can take up to 25 hours to complete, and only a handful of bags are produced each year.
The Legacy
The Kelly bag has become an iconic symbol of luxury and elegance, worn by celebrities, fashion icons, and socialites worldwide. It has also been featured in several movies and TV shows, cementing its status as a fashion icon.
In conclusion, the Kelly bag is named after Grace Kelly and has become an iconic symbol of luxury and elegance. Its timeless design and impeccable craftsmanship make it a coveted accessory for women worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of classic leather or exotic materials like crocodile skin, there’s no denying the allure of this iconic Hermès handbag.