Who Was the Hermes Kelly Made For?

The Hermes Kelly handbag is one of the most iconic and coveted fashion accessories in the world. But have you ever wondered who this elegant bag was made for?

The story of the Hermes Kelly dates back to the 1930s, when it was first introduced as a saddle bag. It wasn’t until 1956 that the bag was redesigned and renamed after Princess Grace Kelly, who popularized it after using it to shield her pregnancy from paparazzi.

The Birth of the Kelly Bag

The original design of the Hermes Kelly was based on a saddle bag that had been used by hunters in France for centuries. The bag was designed to be practical, with enough room to hold hunting equipment such as ropes, whips, and binoculars.

In 1892, Hermes created a smaller version of the saddle bag for equestrian use, which became known as the “Haut à Courroies.” This bag had a simple design with a flap closure and two straps that secured it to a horse’s saddle.

The Redesign

In 1954, Robert Dumas, who was then the head of Hermes, met Princess Grace Kelly while she was filming “To Catch a Thief” in Monaco. The two struck up a conversation about fashion and accessories, and Dumas decided to create a new version of the Hermes handbag with her in mind.

He redesigned the Haut à Courroies by adding a shoulder strap and reducing its size. The new design featured sturdy leather construction with an elongated flap that closed securely with two straps.

The Princess’s Love Affair with Her Bag

After her marriage to Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1956, Princess Grace Kelly became one of the most photographed women in the world. She carried her new Hermes handbag everywhere she went – to official engagements, movie premieres, and even while on vacation.

The bag soon became known as the “Kelly” in honor of the princess, and its popularity soared. It was seen as a symbol of sophistication and elegance, and it quickly became the must-have accessory for women around the world.

The Legacy of the Hermes Kelly

Today, the Hermes Kelly remains one of the most coveted fashion accessories in the world. It is still made by hand using traditional methods, with each bag taking several hours to create.

The Kelly has also become a status symbol, with some styles costing tens of thousands of dollars. Despite its high price tag, however, the Kelly remains a timeless classic that is still beloved by celebrities, fashionistas, and collectors alike.

Whether you are a fan of luxury fashion or simply appreciate classic design, there is no denying that the Hermes Kelly handbag is an enduring masterpiece that will continue to captivate generations to come.

  • The Takeaway: The Hermes Kelly handbag was originally designed as a practical saddle bag for hunters in France.
  • The Redesign: It was redesigned in 1956 by Robert Dumas in honor of Princess Grace Kelly.
  • The Popularity: The bag quickly became known as the “Kelly” and remains one of the most coveted fashion accessories in the world.

Sources:

  1. “The Fascinating History Behind Hermès’ Iconic ‘Kelly’ Bag”, Harper’s Bazaar
  2. “History Lesson: The Hermès Kelly Bag”, PurseBlog