To own an Hermès handbag is to own a piece of undeniable luxury. With over 180 years of history behind the brand, and a story to back each of the brand’s most successful collections and luxury pieces, Hermès has become so much more than just another name on a label.
It has become a movement, a symbol of status, and a sign of prestige for those lucky enough to own an authentic Hermès.
While Hermès sits at the top of the luxury bag market, where it is arguably best known, it also spans other markets, including clothing, home accessories, fragrances, and other accessories. Hermès is, in short, a lifestyle – one that very few are able to truly embrace, owing to both the exceptional demand and the limited supply of every item that gets released.
But for those who are in a position to own their own slice of Hermès, where should their collection start?
When we talk about entry-level Hermès bags and products, we refer to the price of the bag and its availability.
It is not accurate to say that entry-level Hermès bags are cheap or easy to buy. Neither statement is true of anything from the Hermès brand – rather, all authentic Hermès bags are high in both price and value and are met with long waitlists and buyer requests. But an entry-level Hermès does fall at the lower end of the scale in terms of price – and will often not hold quite the same prestige or sought-after status as the likes of the Birkin or Kelly.
There are several Hermès bags that fall under this entry-level label – but in this blog, we’re focussing on the Evelyne bag and the Garden Party bag. With both boasting unique attributes, blending function with style, by the end of this blog we hope you’ll feel confident about which of these bags is the best fit for you.
Let’s start with the Evelyne.
The Hermès Evelyne bag is famously inspired by Hermès’ history in the equestrian market. It mimics the shape and structure of a saddle bag, with a crossbody shoulder strap and a large interior for carrying equestrian accessories and items.
The perforated ‘H’ that can be seen on the front of the Evelyne bag was designed to aerate the inside of this bag, which might hold equestrian equipment and grooming tools, while the adjustable strap and external pocket ensure that the bag is portable, easy to carry while remaining hands-free, and has plenty of space for storage.
As is standard across most bags in the Hermès collection, the Evelyne is crafted from premium leather. However, when you inspect the interior of the bag, you will notice that this is not lined with fabric but rather left with a raw, unfinished underside-leather look. This adds to the practical design that is present in every feature and element of this bag – making it a stylish but useful accessory for buyers who are keen to own a bag that heralds Hermès’ history as well as its brand prestige.
The Hermès Garden Party bag is another bag that spills into the functional accessories category – but in an entirely different way compared with the Evelyne.
Crafted from full leather or with a canvas body and leather details, the Garden Party is a tote bag – with its shape inspired by the shape of the Hermès Kelly, but with a more relaxed silhouette and structure.
A clasp over the top of the bag allows the wearer to keep their items safely stored inside, while the vast interior space is perfectly versatile for everyday needs. Because this bag can be carried by hand or on the shoulder, depending on the size, it boasts two different straps/handles – with the four main sizes available in this bag ranging from the Garden Party Mini to a larger Garden Party 49 tote bag.
The beauty of this bag, like the Evelyne, is that Hermès has not shied away from the use of colour – with single palettes and bold contrasts available, pairing different shades, tones, colours, and textures with ease.
These are two bags that are not only entry-level in price and availability, but they are also built with function and practical use in mind. While the Evelyne bag has small details that hark back to its original purpose, bringing the buyer or wearer back to Hermès’ history as an equestrian accessories designer, the Garden Party bag is one of those versatile pieces that can be used anywhere, by anyone.
Despite their wholly practical designs, however, these are bags that are created by a brand synonymous with luxury. The luxury that props up the Hermès brand is evident in the materials, refined finishes, and of course the price tag – not to mention the coveted status that surrounds each and every new release.
And all that excludes Hermès’ unrivalled approach to its customers’ desires and preferences. If you look at the seasonal releases shared by Hermès, trends are always balanced with timeless shades and aesthetics. Meanwhile, some of the more detailed and bespoke features also change regularly across each model, whether it’s hardware, the use of innovative materials, or optional extras.
Whether you’re looking for something portable like the Evelyne, or a larger and more versatile tote bag like the Garden Party, Hermès is proof that even the most iconic of brands are committed to developing entry-level ranges that are accessible to a wider audience.
And you can try out both designs and collections for yourself, seeing how they look and feel in person, by visiting our resale boutique store in London. Book an appointment to meet a member of our team, and discover your new favourite bag.
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