From Mini to Maxi: Expert Tips on Picking the Right Hermès Bag Size

You’re ready to purchase your next luxury handbag, and you’ve decided on a “Holy Grail” Hermès bag. An excellent choice! When selecting a Hermès bag, size really matters. There are so many options, from the dainty Mini Kelly to the ultra-roomy Birkin 40, it may be tempting to base your decision on popularity alone. Did you know that the Baby Birkin (Birkin 25) has been the most popular size for years? However, what works for other collectors may not work for you.

A bag that doesn’t suit your needs will remain in your closet. That’s why understanding Hermès bag sizes is so important. This Hermès bag size guide walks you through everything you need to know to make a confident, stylish choice for the size of your Birkin, Kelly, or Constance bag. From proportions, dimensions, and practical storage to the occasions when you’ll wear each one, we’ll help you choose the perfect Hermès bag size for you.

Overview of Hermès Bag Sizes

Before focusing on the different Hermès dimensions, it’s helpful to understand how Hermès labels its bags. Unlike the naming convention of most designer houses, Hermès’ sizes are part of each bag’s name. For example, a Birkin 30 measures 30 centimeters at its broadest point, and a Birkin 35 measures 35 centimeters across. 

A five-centimeter size difference might not sound like much — just about two and a half inches — but it makes a significant impact on the bag’s visual scale and how much it holds. Choosing the right Hermès bag size is as much about function as style.

What Size Works for You? Consider Your Lifestyle and Style

First, consider how you’ll actually use your new handbag. A bag’s beauty is just half the equation — the right Hermès size should complement your lifestyle and your wardrobe.

Function first.

For a polished everyday bag, start with what your daily life involves. Heading into the office or meeting clients? A medium Hermès size like a Birkin 30 or Kelly 28 has room for your phone, wallet, a small makeup pouch, and even a tablet without feeling oversized. If you travel frequently or have more items to carry, a large Hermès bag, like a Birkin 40 or a Garden Party Tote, might be a better fit. 

Special occasions call for smaller bags.

For evening events, dinner dates, or weekend brunches, mini Hermès bags such as the Mini Kelly, Kelly Pochette, or Birkin 25 are considered the most dressy. These bags offer just enough room for the essentials — phone, keys, lipstick, and cardholder — and make a striking statement.

Your frame matters, too.

While anyone can certainly wear any bag they love, scale does make a visual difference. Petite women often find that a smaller bag, such as a Kelly 25 or Constance 18, suits their frame beautifully. Taller clients, however, may prefer the proportional balance afforded by the larger Kelly 28 or Constance 24.

Of course, your personal style also impacts your choice of Hermès bag sizes. Minimalists may fall in love with micro bags in their elegant restraint, while professionals and power dressers often favor medium or large bags that blend beauty with purpose.

Understanding your needs and personal style is fundamental to choosing the best Hermès bag size for you.

Comparing Hermès Sizes by Bag Style

Let’s take a closer look at the Hermès sizes and dimensions across the Birkin, Kelly, and Constance.

Birkin Sizes

The Birkin is beloved for its softly structured shape and enduring style, but changing the size by a few centimeters can dramatically change how you’ll use the bag.

• Birkin 25: Measuring 10 x 7.5 x 4.75 inches, the smallest Birkin fits your smartphone, keys, cardholder, and lipstick. 

• Birkin 30: Measuring 11 x 9.5 x 4 inches, this popular, all-around choice holds your essentials, as well as a full-sized wallet, sunglasses, and an iPad mini.

• Birkin 35: Measuring 13.75 x 11 x 7 inches, this Hermès size can also carry a small makeup pouch, a scarf, and an 11-inch tablet.

• Birkin 40: Measuring 15.75 x 12.75 x 8 inches, this bag shines for travel or business, fitting a 13-inch laptop, folders, and other large items.

So, what’s the best Birkin size? It depends!

Kelly Sizes

The highly structured Kelly bag features a detachable shoulder strap for greater versatility. When choosing the right size for your needs, consider how it functions as a handbag and a shoulder bag. 

• Kelly 20: Measuring 7.5 x 4.5 x 2.2 inches, the Mini Kelly holds just a small phone, cardholder, and lipstick.

• Kelly 25: Measuring 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.5 inches, this bag can also hold a makeup pouch, a full-sized wallet, and keys.

• Kelly 28: Measuring 11.25 x 8.25 x 4.75 inches, the Kelly 28 can also carry a water bottle and sunglasses. 

• Kelly 32: Measuring 12.75 x 9 x 4.75 inches, the Kelly 32 will comfortably hold a tablet or a 13-inch laptop.

• Kelly 35: Measuring 14 x 10 x 5.5 inches, the largest Kelly bag can accommodate a 15-inch laptop and folders along with the rest of your essentials.

Constance Sizes

An elegant shoulder bag featuring a slim profile, flap closure, and the iconic “H” clasp, the Constance bag is prized by those who favor hands-free convenience without sacrificing the elevated style.

• Constance 18: Measuring 7.25 x 6.25 x 2.25 inches, the smaller Constance holds your smartphone, card holder, keys, and lipstick.

• Constance 24: Measuring 9.5 x 7 x 3 inches, this bag accommodates your sunglasses, makeup pouch, and full-sized wallet, too. 

Whether you’re choosing a Birkin, Kelly, or Constance, understanding Hermès bag sizes and your own needs and aesthetic will help you select the perfect bag for you.

Finding the right Hermès bag size is about more than dimensions. It’s about finding the bag that best fits your lifestyle. Whether you prefer a compact statement or a spacious, everyday bag, the right size Hermès bag is one you will reach for again and again.