Specialist Picks: Shop the Best Hermes Bags to Buy Now
Discover five must have Hermès bags from this month’s new arrivals, expertly curated by our specialists.
The legacy of Hermès handbags dates back to the early 20th century, rooted in the brand’s heritage as a Parisian saddlery workshop founded in 1837. The introduction of the first Hermès handbag, the Haut à Courroies (HAC), in the early 1900s marked the beginning of a new era in luxury accessories. Designed to carry equestrian gear, the HAC would later inspire the creation of the iconic Birkin and Kelly bags—both of which have become symbols of status and refinement. The Kelly, originally known as the Sac à Dépêches, gained international fame when actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly used it to shield her pregnancy from the paparazzi in the 1950s. The Birkin, designed in collaboration with actress Jane Birkin in the 1980s, revolutionized the world of luxury handbags with its impeccable craftsmanship and exclusivity. Today, Hermès handbags remain the ultimate expression of prestige, blending heritage with modern desirability in every meticulously crafted design.
This month, Hermès collectors and handbag enthusiasts have the opportunity to acquire some of the most exceptional pieces, from the delicate Picotin in Rose Sakura to the rare Micro Mini Bolide in Bleu Saphir lizard. Whether drawn to the timeless sophistication of the Mini Kelly 20, the playful charm of the Kelly Doll Picto, or the refined elegance of the Birkin 25 in Beton Matte Alligator, each bag exemplifies Hermès’ legacy of craftsmanship and innovation. Discover this month’s most sought-after Hermès bags, carefully curated by our specialists—perfect for seasoned collectors and those looking to add a striking and iconic piece to their collection.
Accessible Splurge: Hermès Picotin Rose Sakura, $5,100
The Hermès Picotin Rose Sakura is a delightful celebration of soft femininity and everyday elegance. Crafted from the house’s signature Clemence leather, this Picotin exudes a relaxed yet refined charm, with its unstructured silhouette and supple texture. The Rose Sakura hue,a beloved shade among Hermès collectors, is a delicate, powdery pink that adds a touch of warmth and sophistication to any ensemble. Fresh from the boutique in 2025, this pristine piece embodies the effortless luxury that makes the Picotin such a sought-after style.
Perfect for both seasoned Hermès aficionados and those looking to add a timeless piece to their wardrobe, the Picotin Rose Sakura seamlessly blends practicality with enduring appeal. Its open-top design and spacious interior make it a versatile companion for daily wear, while the understated elegance of its pastel hue ensures it remains a coveted choice among handbag enthusiasts. Whether you're expanding your collection or searching for the perfect soft-toned handbag, this Picotin is a must-have for those who appreciate the beauty of Hermès’ most cherished pink.
Vintage Find: Hermès Micro Mini Bolide Bleu Saphir Varanus Niloticus Lizard, $9,800
The Hermès Micro Mini Bolide in Bleu Saphir is a rare vintage treasure that embodies the brand’s legacy of craftsmanship and exclusivity. Crafted from Varanus Niloticus lizard, this exquisite piece dates back to the early 1990s, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. The deep Bleu Saphir hue enhances the natural beauty of the lizard’s fine, symmetrical scales, creating a mesmerizing interplay of texture and color. Its delicate size and structured silhouette give the bag an air of refined sophistication, making it a striking addition to any Hermès collection.
For those who appreciate rare, archival Hermès pieces, the Micro Mini Bolide is an extraordinary find. Its vintage charm is complemented by the enduring appeal of the Bolide design—one of the house’s most iconic and historically significant styles. Despite its petite proportions, this bag carries an undeniable presence, perfect for collectors and connoisseurs who admire both rarity and impeccable craftsmanship. Whether displayed as a prized collectible or carried as an elegant statement piece, the Bleu Saphir Micro Mini Bolide is a testament to Hermès’ timeless artistry.
Timeless Classic: Hermès Mini Kelly 20 Black Box, $30,600
The Hermès Mini Kelly 20 in Black Box leather is a masterpiece of heritage and elegance, blending timeless craftsmanship with one of the most coveted handbag silhouettes. Box leather, one of Hermès’ oldest and most distinguished materials, dates back to the 1890s and was named after the 19th-century English shoemaker Joseph Box. Known for its smooth, glossy finish and ability to develop a rich patina over time, Box leather enhances the structured lines of the Mini Kelly, giving it an air of refined sophistication. Paired with the sleek black hue, this bag is the epitome of understated luxury.
As one of the most sought-after sizes in the Kelly lineup, the Mini Kelly 20 is a favorite among collectors and fashion connoisseurs alike. Its compact yet striking design makes it perfect for both daytime elegance and evening glamour, offering versatility without compromising on style. The combination of classic black Box leather and the bag’s structured silhouette ensures it remains a timeless addition to any Hermès collection. Whether carried as a statement piece or treasured as a rare find, the Mini Kelly 20 in Black Box leather is an icon in its own right.
Dedicated Collector: Hermès Kelly Doll Picto Gris Misty Epsom, $61,200
The Hermès Kelly Doll Picto in Gris Misty, Black, Vert Fizz, and Alezan is a playful reinterpretation of one of the house’s most whimsical designs. Fresh from the 2024 collection, this charming bag blends heritage craftsmanship with a modern digital-inspired twist. The Kelly Doll, originally introduced in the late 1990s, is already a coveted collector’s item, and the Picto version elevates its appeal with a pixelated effect that gives the bag a contemporary, almost animated look. Crafted in durable Epsom leather, the mix of Gris Misty, Black, Vert Fizz, and Alezan creates a striking balance of neutral and vibrant tones, adding a bold yet sophisticated flair to the design.
Beloved for its cheerful expression and compact size, the Kelly Doll Picto is more than just a handbag—it’s a conversation piece. Whether displayed as an artful collectible or carried as a statement accessory, this rare creation showcases Hermès’ ability to blend humor with high fashion. The combination of impeccable craftsmanship and imaginative design makes this bag a standout addition for those who appreciate the playful side of luxury.
Grand Gesture: Hermès Birkin 25 Beton Matte Mississippiensis Alligator, $98,000
The Hermès Birkin 25 in Beton Matte Mississippiensis Alligator is the ultimate statement of refinement and exclusivity. Beton, one of Hermès’ most coveted neutral shades, is a striking off-white hue that exudes effortless sophistication. When rendered in luxurious matte alligator, the texture adds depth to the color, enhancing its understated elegance. Paired with gleaming gold hardware, this Birkin 25 achieves a perfect balance of modern minimalism and classic opulence, making it a truly timeless creation.
For those who appreciate rare and exquisite handbags, this Birkin 25 is the epitome of luxury. The combination of its structured silhouette, exceptional craftsmanship, and highly sought-after colorway ensures it remains a standout piece in any collection. Whether carried as a bold fashion statement or treasured as a prized Hermès rarity, the Beton Matte Alligator Birkin 25 is the perfect grand gesture—capturing the essence of sophistication in its purest form.
This month’s selection of Hermès bags showcases the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship, exclusivity, and timeless style. From the delicate femininity of the Picotin in Rose Sakura to the rare sophistication of the Micro Mini Bolide in Bleu Saphir lizard, each piece reflects the artistry and heritage that make Hermès a pinnacle of luxury. Whether you’re drawn to a whimsical design like the Kelly Doll Picto or the refined elegance of the Birkin 25 in Beton Matte Alligator, these exceptional handbags are destined to be cherished additions to any collection. Explore this expertly curated selection and find the perfect Hermès piece to elevate your wardrobe.
Advantages to Buying Hermès Bags on the Secondary Market
1. Access
Sotheby's is able to provide access to a curated selection of Hermès bags from its long established global network of sellers. Sotheby's is a leading global marketplace that offers pristine Birkin and Kelly bags in the most popular colors, materials and sizes along with rare Himalayan and Limited Edition Birkin bags. Our handbag specialists are always sourcing the more desirable Birkin and Kelly bags from collectors around the world. Sotheby's also sells incredible private collections that include one of a kind Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags.
2. Flexibility
Sotheby's provides multiple ways to purchase Birkin and Kelly bags including auction, online, and in person in New York, Hong Kong, Zurich, Paris and London. Sotheby's also offers a concierge service if you need assistance sourcing a specific Birkin or Kelly bag that isn't available at auction or online.
3. Value
While Hermès bags in pristine condition sell at a premium to retail, Sotheby's has bags for purchase at auction and marketplace in a range of the most desirable colors and materials. Secondary marketplaces like Sotheby's allow a buyer to purchase a store fresh pristine Birkin or Kelly bag with the original box and all plastic still on the hardware without waiting for a call from an Hermès sales associate. While it is possible to purchase a Birkin or Kelly Bag at an Hermès boutique, it is hard to predict how long it will take. Additionally if you don't have an existing relationship at the store, it is even harder to pick the exact bag including size, color and hardware. In many cases you may be offered a Birkin or Kelly that may not be your desired color or size. Buyers also come to Sotheby's since they want to purchase more than two Hermès bags in a year. While we encourage you to build a relationship with an Hermès Sales Associate, Sotheby's can save you time when purchasing a Birkin or Kelly.
4. Discovery
One of the best parts of a global luxury marketplace is discovering unique Hermès bags or rare limited edition Birkin and Kelly bags that are no longer available at Hermès. Sotheby's curated selection changes regularly and each auction has a unique selection of Birkin and Kelly bags. You are likely to discover something new to you from Hermès.
Buy and Sell Hermès Bags at Sotheby’s
Sotheby's always has a curated selection of the top Hermès bags available for immediate shipping. Sotheby's also sells Hermès bags at auction in New York, Paris, Zurich and Hong Kong. Expect to find rare and collectible Birkin and Kelly bags in every sale in addition to other popular Hermès bags in pristine condition in the newest colors and classic neutrals. Sotheby's handbag sales include rare and limited edition Hermès bags in exotic materials, custom color combinations and even diamond hardware.
Prices for Hermès bags range from $3,000 to $5,000 at the low end for the Herbag, Garden Party and Evelyne TPM. Prices for the most sought after Birkin and Kelly bags start at around $20,000 and can exceed $100,000 for the rarest and most desirable limited edition Birkin or Kelly bags.
- Explore upcoming handbag auctions in New York, London, Switzerland, Paris, and Hong Kong.
- Speak to a Salon Associate in New York, Zurich, London, Paris, or Hong Kong to schedule an appointment.
- Contact a Handbag Specialist about selling an Hermès bag or submit your item here for valuation.
Trust our worldwide network of leading handbag specialists from a globally renowned auction house established in 1744.
