Hermès Evelyne Bags

The Hermès Evelyne bag was designed in 1978 by Evelyne Bertrand, then head of the Hermès riding department, as a carryall for horse groomers. The perforations in the shape of the "H" were designed to allow airflow to dry the tools on the go and were considered the bag's back. For years, the stylish Evelyne bag was considered strictly utilitarian and was relegated to the Hermès equestrian supplies department.

Decades later, the extraordinary appeal of the Hermès Evelyne earned its inclusion in the leather goods department with the other Hermès luxury bags. Today, the Evelyne Hermès bag is cherished for its casual flair, and the characteristic “H” perforations are worn facing forward.

The Hermès Evelyne bag is shaped like a saddlebag, while the adjustable shoulder strap of sturdy canvas and leather echoes a horse's girth strap. The detachable strap allows for comfortable crossbody wear. 

The Evelyne comes in four sizes: TPM (Très Petit Modèle) or Evelyne 16, PM (Petit Modèle) or Evelyne 29, GM (Grand Modèle) or Evelyne 33 and TGM (Très Grand Modèle) or Evelyne 40. (In 2016, Hermès introduced a new version – the Evelyne Sellier – of Vache Hunter with a sleek, embossed logo rather than the perforated holes that comes in 29cm and 33cm.) 

Every version of the Hermès Evelyne is hand-cut, sewn, and polished. The Evelyne bags are crafted of durable leather that resists scratches and tarnishing. Sewn without lining, the bag's interior is the raw, suede back of the leather it is made from.

Hermès Evelyne Bags for Sale

Hermès has a genius for elevating the utilitarian to luxury, and the Hermès Evelyne is a prime example. The spare, minimalist lines and chic simplicity make the bag ideal for any casual day on the go. Its durability, lightweight, and open interior make it a highly practical choice. Yet, it is simultaneously quite elegant. Handcrafted from the same sumptuous leather as the Birkin and Kelly in classic and seasonal colors, Hermès Evelyne elevates any ensemble, even adding a dash of glamour to a jeans-and-tee-shirt day.

Experience iconic luxury with Hermès Evelyne handbags. 

Hermès Evelyne Bags FAQs

Has the Hermès Evelyne evolved since it was introduced?

The shape of the Evelyne remains the same as originally introduced. The original Evelyne, now known as the Evelyne I, had a non-removable, non-adjustable thin leather shoulder strap, no side gussets, and no rear pocket. The Evelyne II added side gussets. The Evelyne III, which is the current style, has a removable, adjustable strap for wearing crossbody or on the shoulder, and a rear slit pocket. (The Evelyne TPM has a non-adjustable crossbody strap.)

Is the Hermès Evelyne an equestrian bag?

The bag was originally designed to be used by riders to carry their shoes, equipment, etc. The perforated holes enabled water and air to flow through the bag, an ingenious way to reduce odor and mildew. Given the purpose, the perforated “H” was meant to be worn against the body. The boutiques offered the Evelyne in the equestrian section. 

Around 2009, Hermès moved the Evelyne to the leather goods section and the bag became a more affordable option than the Birkins and Kellys. As a “fashion” bag, the signature perforated “H” was now intended to be turned around and shown to the world. The addition of a crossbody strap and a mini size increased demand for the bag among fashionistas worldwide.

Can you buy an Hermès Evelyne bag in the store?

Initially, the Evelyne was readily available in the stores, with no profile required. As the bag’s popularity increased, particularly following the introduction of the Evelyne TPM, Hermès moved the bags off the selling floor (making them by request only) and limited the number of Evelyne bags any one person could purchase. While it’s not as hard to buy as a Birkin bag, most boutiques have very few Evelyne Hermès bags in stock at one time. Your best bet is to browse the Madison Avenue Couture collection of authentic Hermès bags. You may just find your dream Hermès Evelyne bag for sale!