The pre-owned Kelly bag embodies the timeless elegance of Hermès. This trapeze shape closed by a flap and turn-lock, born in the 1930s as the "sac à courroies", owes its legend to Grace Kelly who immortalised it in 1956. Carried by hand or on the shoulder, it crosses the decades without ageing. At Francine Joaillerie in Saint-Tropez, every second-hand Kelly is appraised: leather, saddlery, stitching, hardware, blind stamp and finishing, with a certificate of authenticity.
Like the Birkin, the Kelly is hard to obtain in boutiques. Pre-owned offers immediate access to the size, leather and colour you want, with the security of professional authentication.
| Criterion | Options | Our advice |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 25, 28, 32 cm (and Mini Kelly) | The 28 is the signature format; 25 and Mini for evening, 32 for everyday |
| Finish | Sellier (outside stitching) or Retourné (supple) | Sellier structures and asserts, Retourné softens the silhouette |
| Leather | Epsom, Togo, Box, goatskin, exotics | Epsom holds the Sellier structure perfectly; Box signs classic chic |
| Colour | Étoupe, black, gold, or colours | Neutrals are the most versatile and the most sought-after on resale |
Authenticity and condition are the two keys to a successful purchase. Our experts check every Kelly in the finest detail and only offer certified, guaranteed pieces, often with their original box and accessories.
The Kelly Sellier has its stitching on the outside, giving a rigid, structured look. The Kelly Retourné has its stitching inside, for a softer, more relaxed silhouette.
Regular saddle stitching, dense crisp hardware, precise turn-lock, blind stamp, flawless finishing. See our guide on how to spot a fake Hermès bag.
Yes, purchase and consignment after appraisal at our Saint-Tropez boutique.
Also worth exploring: our pre-owned Birkin bags, all our luxury handbags and our Hermès creations.
