The Kelly, formerly known as the Sac À Dépêches, is one of the most popular bags from Hermès. And while Hermès Birkin vs Kelly debate will never truly be settled, if you’ve decided to purchase a Kelly you might be considering the Sellier vs Retourne.
Ultimately, both the Kelly Sellier and the Kelly Retourne have their own advantages, which is why a preference for either is entirely personal. This guide will point out the differences between the bags, and give you an overview of what the bag offers.
The Key Differences: Hermès Kelly Sellier vs Retourne
Overall, the Hermès Kelly Sellier has a more structured look, while the Kelly Retourne is slightly more relaxed in appearance. These are the differences between the Kelly Sellier vs Kelly Retourne.
What Is A Kelly Sellier?
The Kelly Sellier pays tribute to the equestrian roots of Hermès. The house was once primarily renowned as an elite harness and saddle maker in France. The word ‘Sellier’ translates to ‘Saddler’ in French.
One of the key points of difference between Sellier vs Retourne, is that the Sellier features top-stitching along the seams. The Kelly Sellier bag also has resin-coated edges for sharp lines and a refined finish.
The Sellier is typically made from sturdier leathers such as the Epsom leather or the Box leather. This helps to maintain the trapezoidal silhouette of the Kelly.
What Is A Kelly Retourne?
A slightly more laid-back version of the Kelly, is the Kelly Retourne. The Retourne bag is initially created in the same fashion as a Sellier, but is reversed for a different look. The word ‘retourne’ means to turn over.
As opposed to the resin edges on the Sellier, the Kelly Retourne has leather piping along the sides. The leather used for the Retourne is more supple, such as the Togo or the Clemence.
Sellier vs Retourne: Which Is Better?
It depends on whether you prefer a more relaxed or a more structured silhouette. If you favor a more laid-back aesthetic, then the Kelly Retourne is right for you. However, if you prefer a more put-together pristine look, then the Kelly Sellier would be your choice.
If you are looking for a patent crocodile or alligator bag, this only exists in the Sellier style. The matte crocodile and alligator bags only come in the Retourne style.
Both styles are handcrafted by a single artisan in the Hermès atelier. Ultimately, the Hermès Kelly Retourne and the Kelly Sellier are equally timeless classics.
What Is The Price Difference Of The Hermès Sellier vs Retourne?
Due to the more structured nature of the Sellier, it is often more expensive than the Retourne. The attention to detail when it comes to the stitching on a Sellier requires more time. However, the price difference is almost negligible.
Are The Kelly Sellier And Retourne The Same Size?
Yes. However, due to the more rigid construction of the Sellier, the Retourne’s slouchy shape offers a little more room. Either way, neither bag should be overstuffed in order to keep the bag in shape.
About The Hermès Kelly
A Brief History Of The Kelly
Dating back to the 1930s, the Kelly is one of the oldest and best-loved designer handbags in history. The bag’s story began further back though, in the late 19th century. The Haut À Courroies bag is what the Kelly’s DNA was largely founded upon.
Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco, used the Kelly Bag to hide her baby bump from the paparazzi. The Kelly was originally called the Sac À Dépêches, until the bag was officially renamed in 1977 in honor of Grace Kelly.
Anatomy Of The Hermès Kelly
Aside from being the bag of choice for Grace Kelly to hide her pregnancy from the paparazzi, the Kelly bag is a favorite for good reason.
Details
- Gold-plated or palladium-plated hardware
- A padlock and two keys
- Four leather-coated studs on the bottom
- A single rounded top handle
- An optional, removable shoulder strap
- Touret closure
- Top flap
Where To Buy An Hermès Kelly?
With a wide range of Hermès accessories, including the Kelly Sellier and Retourne version, myGemma is your go-to for sourcing a Kelly bag. myGemma offers a wide range of expertly authenticated Hermès Kelly bags, in various sizes and colors.
There are many benefits to buying from myGemma, especially if it’s a Birkin or a Kelly that you’re trying to source. It is notoriously difficult to buy a Birkin or Kelly from an Hermès store, and it is a long waiting game. With myGemma, you can skip the queue and save yourself the hassle.
For your next Hermès Kelly purchase, head over to myGemma or download the app for early access.
How To Sell An Hermès Kelly Online?
If you want to sell your Hermès Kelly online quickly and for the right price, then look no further than myGemma. The selling process is simple: fill out the online form, receive your offer and get paid. The entire selling process can take as little as 24 hours.
Kelly bags can make a great investment piece, so when it’s time to sell there’s no quicker way than to sell to myGemma. Not only will you get the right price for your bag, but you will also be helping to contribute to a circular economy. It’s the right choice for your wallet and for the planet.
