What fashionista wouldn’t want a bucket full of Hermès? Probably none, but that doesn’t mean one has to wait (endlessly perhaps) for a Birkin or Kelly. Those ultimate holy grail bags are coveted by many, yet obtainable by few. Or at least fewer than desire them.
Fortunately, Hermès offers an ever-growing line of handbag options. Often inspired by the brand’s equestrian roots, these handbags provide style and artisan craftsmanship, packaged in timeless classic designs. And, as “non-quota” styles, they (theoretically anyway) are easier to obtain and can help build an Hermès profile.
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So whether you’re tired of Birkins and Kellys (haha, as if) and looking for variety or, more realistically, yearning to experience Hermès handbags, take a look at the Picotin Lock bag. Although introduced nearly 20 years ago, it has never faded from the brand offerings nor waned in popularity. However, and perhaps not coincidentally as the two decade anniversary approaches, interest in the Picotin Lock is growing.
As for the bucket reference above, that is a hint about the Picotin Lock: it is what is known as a bucket bag. This style has been around for ages. In fact, some point to the original drawstring handbags in the 1500s for men and women.
Other lore around this style involves Gaston Louis-Vuitton and the Noe bag. Allegedly, his Noe was designed to safely carry five bottles of champagne. Pop that cork, if it works!
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Nevertheless, the bucket bag remains popular in the modern era. Its feminine design adds a youthful flare to a style that transcends time, making it evergreen and above transient fashion trends.
Hermès’s luxurious take on this playful style is no exception. Introduced to the world in 2002, the Picotin Lock bag is both functional and stylish. Of course, the Hermès quality and branding is a draw as well.
Without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about one of the most revered bucket bags today.
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History
For starters, the Picotin – in name and shape – truly is inspired by Hermès’s equestrian roots. The name comes from an old French term that refers to the measure of oats that are fed to horses.
Perhaps not surprisingly, the bag’s shape resembles the bag of oats that is hung on the horses’ ears. Just look at the Picotin and you can imagine a horse eating right out of it! But, we don’t suggest you actually use it for that, lol.
Photo Credit: @conomi2_9
This simple, fun and functional bag has garnered quite a fanbase in the past two decades. It is regarded as one of Hermès’s most loved bags, and not without reason!
Why We Love It
Despite the Picotin Lock bag’s unique shape and style, it nevertheless still bears all of the quintessential Hermès markers. First and foremost, there’s the classic Hermès quality. The Picotin Lock eloquently exudes the impeccable craftsmanship for which the French fashion house is known. That includes an Hermès Paris stamp at the interior bottom.
Second, this bag is functional. Deceptively compact, in reality it is quite spacious. As a result, it comfortably houses your essentials and more.
Moreover, the relatively open top makes it easily accessible. We say relatively, because there is a strip of leather across the top to which you attach the lock and the leather slides to allow access.
Carry it by hand or in the crook of your arm. For more variation, and hands free use, you can attach your favorite strap. Depending upon its length, this transforms the Picotin Lock into a shoulder or cross-body bag.
Photo Credit: @thebirkinfairy
The light weight of the Picotin Lock Bag allows it to be carried comfortably through the day. This versatile bag can be styled in various ways, the most popular being to accessorize it with a fun Hermès twilly. Others add favorite charms, in particular a rodeo.
The comparatively lower (under 5k!!) price point of the bag, certainly adds to its appeal among handbag aficionados, who consider it a fabulous entry level bag. Use it and love it or even beef up your purchase history with this symbol of relaxed sophistication.
Key Features
- Two top handles
- Hermès Padlock
- Square-ish base
- Hermès Paris stamp
- Metal Purse feet or clou
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Material
The Picotin Lock Bag is most commonly found in Clemence and Epsom Leather, which render a smooth and grainy texture to the bag. Special versions exist with crocodile handles or braided leather, sometimes full croc, occasionally two tone, and also wool flannel bodies. Its unlined interior certainly adds to its casual appearance and light weight.
The Picotin also is made in canvas, including the Picotin Cargo. Like the Cargo Birkin, it sports exterior pockets.
Picotin hardware traditionally is in Palladium finish. However, in recent years, more and more models include the Gold finish.
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Sizes
This Hermès bucket bag comes in three sizes. Though all sizes are roomy and accommodate your daily essentials, the larger ones fit much more. The largest size also has an androgynous appeal making it popular among men as well (who often enhance it with an added shoulder strap and wear it as a cross body).
Here are the options:
| Size | Dimensions (L x H x W cm) |
| Picotin Lock 18 Bag | 18 x 19 x 13.5 cm |
| Picotin Lock 22 Bag | 22 x 21 x 17 cm |
| Picotin Lock 26 Bag | 26 x 26 x 22 cm |
Colors
The Picotin Lock bag comes in a variety of fun colors as well as most of the classic shades. Depending on the season, you may discover a statement-making Picotin in two contrasting yet complementary colors.
Photo Credit: @thebirkinfairy
Price
Perhaps the most attractive feature of the Picotin Lock is the price. It’s an absolute value for money buy! Of course, it’s still no drop in the bucket lol. However, for a Hermès bag, the price is on the lower end of the options.
These bags in the 18, 22, and 26cm sizes are all priced under 5k (for Clemence and Epsom leather). As a result, they are popular purchases among those looking to build a relationship with the brand.
| Size | Price (Euros) | Price (US) |
| Picotin Lock 18 Bag | €2,120 | $2,875 |
| Picotin Lock 22 Bag | €2,310 | $3,150 |
| Picotin Lock 26 Bag | €2,800 | $3,500 |
Special Picotin Models
Beyond the ‘basic’ Picotin models discussed above, there are some special editions available and/or in the works. Presumably difficult to find, they take the Picotin Lock handbag to a new level of exclusivity.
First, Hermès shrunk the bag! Given the brand’s success with mini versions of the Kelly, Bolide, and Evelyne, it’s not surprising to see a Micro Picotin lock. Measuring 14cm, this bag is barely bigger than the highly-coveted Mini Kelly.
Expect to pay more for this petite sac, at least in part because Hermès uses a special daisy-embossed leather. At $3200 it costs about $400 more than the original 18cm version.
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Image credit: @birkinwithme
Second, we suspect Hermès noticed that a shoulder strap works quite well on the Picotin Lock. As discussed above, some owners attach their own straps to make it work as either a shoulder or crossbody bag. Now, there are reports (supported by pictures) that Hermes is releasing a Picotin with its own strap.
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Instagram Eye Candy
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Are you a Picotin Lock fan? If so, we’d love to hear your favorite way to carry the bag. And, if anyone uses it to feed a horse, please send pix ASAP lol.
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Love, PurseBop
XO
Updated: July 24th, 2022
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