What is Your Opinion of the Tri-colored Hermès Mini Kelly and Does It Have a Higher Resale Value?

Question:

Hi I would like to hear your opinions on the three color tone on a Mini Kelly. (eg. Blue brume/Vert Jade/Gold on handle).

Are light colored bags more likely to turn yellow or have discolorations over time? And does 3 color bags have a higher resale value? Thank you for the time and hope to hear your valuable views on this topic.

Dear Curious About Tri-Colored Hermès Bags:

The past few years Hermès has surprised us with some new and exciting tricolored Kellys. The bags tend to have interesting color combinations that complement each other well. These bags are rare and often even more difficult to obtain than a single-colored leather Kelly. The tricolored combinations are usually seen on the mini Kelly, Kelly 25, and Kelly 28. Although these bags are not special order bags, and do not have a horseshoe stamp, they are rare and special.

Hermès no longer allows 3 different colors to be used on a special order bag. Creating these tricolored Kellys may be Hermès’ way to show how three colors can be used to create a special, rare, and beautiful Kelly.

With respect to the mini Kelly, it is a personal preference whether the tricolor combination is something you prefer. Some believe it is more versatile and complements many outfits easily. Others find it has too many colors for such a small bag. Because the colors change only for the sangles, top handle and shoulder strap, the three colors usually complement each other and add a touch of whimsy to the bag. Hermès is very good at putting unexpected colors together and making it look amazing.

On the other hand, although beautiful, some find the addition of multiple colors on a Kelly of any size make it more difficult to match the bag to an outfit. It may be easier to match it to a monochromatic look than a multi-colored outfit. Nevertheless, the mini Kelly is a statement piece. The three colors transform the bag even more into a real show stopper. Depending on your wardrobe, it may likely complement many of the outfits in your closet.

We have not seen reports that light colored bags turn yellow over time with the exception of Bleu Brume in epsom leather. Hermès recently discovered that some Bleu Brume epsom bags were turning yellow at the stitching. They recalled the bags and stopped producing that color in epsom leather. We are not aware of any other colors that have had this issue.

With respect to the resale value of tricolored bags, it is very difficult to predict. Like all bags, many factors influence the value on the resale market. Those factors include the popularity of the particular bag, the color and leather combination, the availability or scarcity of the bag in the marketplace, the economic climate at the time, the condition, age, and size of the bag. The resale value of bags change often so it is difficult to predict. Although larger bags are making a comeback, smaller bags still seem to command a higher price on the resale market, particularly mini Kellys. Often tricolored mini Kellys are priced slightly higher on the resale market as well.

As with all things Hermès, we recommend to buy what you love, and use and enjoy your bags. All Hermès bags seem to be getting harder and harder to obtain so cherish what you have. If we were offered a tricolored mini Kelly from the Hermès boutique, we would not hesitate to accept that offer.