The Hermès Herbag has a canvas body, a leather flap, and a Clou de Selle closure. Its trapezoidal shape resembles the Kelly, but the canvas makes it lighter and more casual.
Hermès reintroduced the Herbag Zip in 2009 with a zippered back pocket and removable interior pouch. The Mini Herbag 20 joined the collection in 2024 for carrying a phone, cardholder, and keys. The Herbag is one of the non-quota Hermès bags you can buy directly online when in stock. Set up restock alerts if your preferred version is unavailable.
History & Heritage
The Herbag's story begins in the 1980s when Hermès sought to create a more practical, everyday version of their iconic Kelly bag. Sometimes called the "Kelly Country" or "two-in-one bag," it combined the Kelly's elegant trapezoidal silhouette with a durable canvas body and leather trim.
After an initial run, the original Herbag was discontinued by the early 2000s. However, recognizing its appeal, Hermès reintroduced an updated version in 2009: the Herbag Zip. This reimagined design added a zippered back pocket for quick access and a removable interior pouch for better organization.
Recent Evolution
The Herbag remains a seasonal staple, refreshed each year with limited-edition prints and motifs. In 2024, Hermès expanded the collection with the Mini Herbag Zip 20 — a compact crossbody designed for minimalist carry. This addition has made the Herbag line even more versatile, appealing to those seeking a smaller, more modern silhouette.
Design & Features
The Herbag has a trapezoidal canvas body, leather flap, and Clou de Selle closure. The canvas makes it lighter and more casual than a similarly sized leather Kelly.
Signature Design Elements
- Canvas Body
- The main body is woven Toile H canvas — durable, lightweight, and available in neutral colors or seasonal printed motifs. Weather-resistant but not waterproof.
- Leather Trim
- The flap, handle, and strap are crafted from Vache Hunter cowhide — a grained yet supple leather in seasonal colors like Noir, Gold, Etoupe, and Bleu Indigo.
- Clou de Selle Turnlock
- The signature Hermès closure that echoes the Kelly, providing secure yet easy access to the interior.
- Back Zip Pocket
- An external zippered pocket on the back for quick access to essentials like phone, keys, or passport.
- Removable Pouch
- A small zipped pouch inside for organizing smaller items — a practical addition to the 2009 Zip version.
- Hidden Metal Rod
- A concealed rod under the canvas maintains the bag's structure and allows the top handle or strap to be removed or flipped.
Two-in-One Versatility
One of the Herbag's unique features is its interchangeable canvas body. The canvas portion detaches from the leather top, allowing owners to swap between different colored bodies for versatility. While Hermès doesn't sell bodies separately at retail, many collectors own multiple Herbags to mix and match.
Materials & Hardware
A canvas body and leather trim keep the Herbag lighter than a similarly sized bag made entirely from leather. Canvas weaves and prints vary by version.
- Characteristics
- Durable woven cotton, weather-resistant, available in colors/prints
- Used For
- Main body of the bag
- Characteristics
- Grained cowhide, supple yet sturdy, develops patina
- Used For
- Flap, handle, strap
- Characteristics
- Smooth, fine-grained, softer feel
- Used For
- Premium editions' trim
- Characteristics
- Silver-tone plated metal, modern look
- Used For
- Turnlock, studs, rings
- Characteristics
- 24k gold-plated metal, classic look
- Used For
- Turnlock, studs, rings
Canvas types vary by season: standard Toile H (Berline), Officier (military canvas), and occasionally special prints. The hardware — saddle-inspired studs, H padlock, and Clou de Selle turnlock — echoes Hermès' equestrian heritage.
Sizes & Dimensions
The Herbag family includes the compact Zip 20, Zip 31 and 39, larger travel bags, and the horizontal Messenger 39. Cabine and Weekender names also appear on resale listings.
- Dimensions (cm)
- ~20.6 × 16.5 × 7.1
- Dimensions (in)
- 8.1 × 6.5 × 2.8
- Strap / Carry
- 40.9-inch strap length
- Best For
- Essentials, shoulder or crossbody
- Dimensions (cm)
- 31 × 25 × 11
- Dimensions (in)
- 12 × 10 × 4.5
- Strap / Carry
- Shoulder strap
- Best For
- Everyday carry
- Dimensions (cm)
- 39 × 30 × 15
- Dimensions (in)
- 15.4 × 11.8 × 5.9
- Strap / Carry
- Shoulder strap
- Best For
- Work, travel
- Dimensions (cm)
- ~50 × 40 × 20
- Dimensions (in)
- ~19.7 × 15.7 × 7.9
- Strap / Carry
- Varies
- Best For
- Large travel tote
- Dimensions (cm)
- ~52 × 41 × 22
- Dimensions (in)
- ~20.5 × 16.1 × 8.7
- Strap / Carry
- Varies
- Best For
- Weekend/overnight trips
Which Size Should You Choose?
- Mini 20: A compact choice for a phone, cardholder, keys, and lipstick, with shoulder or crossbody carry.
- 31: An everyday size with a handle and shoulder strap. Fits a wallet, phone, sunglasses, small tablet, and cosmetics pouch.
- 39: A larger option for work or travel, with room for a tablet, water bottle, and notebook. The standard Zip 39 is for hand or shoulder carry; choose the separate Messenger 39 for crossbody wear.
- 50/52: Travel totes for day trips or overnight. Can hold clothing, books, and files. Rarely used for daily carry.
Pricing Guide
2026 U.S. Retail Prices
Hermès sells the Herbag in boutiques and online without requiring prior purchases. The standard Zip 31 in Militaire canvas and Hunter cowhide was $3,525 in a U.S. listing seen October 6, 2026. Printed canvas and pocket versions cost more. Stock varies by size and color; restock alerts can help you find a version when it returns online.
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $3,200
- Material / Listing Date
- H Viking canvas, Hunter cowhide; September 29, 2026
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $3,525
- Material / Listing Date
- Militaire canvas, Hunter cowhide; October 6, 2026
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $3,900
- Material / Listing Date
- Militaire canvas, Hunter cowhide; September 1, 2026
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $4,425
- Material / Listing Date
- Militaire canvas, Hunter cowhide; May 26, 2026
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $4,475
- Material / Listing Date
- Printed H Plume canvas, Hunter cowhide; May 21, 2026
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $3,775
- Material / Listing Date
- Militaire canvas, Hunter cowhide; September 29, 2026
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $4,550
- Material / Listing Date
- H Viking canvas, Hunter cowhide; October 5, 2026
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $5,200
- Material / Listing Date
- Militaire canvas, Hunter cowhide; October 6, 2026
- U.S. Retail (USD)
- $6,650
- Material / Listing Date
- Printed H Plume canvas; October 6, 2026
Prices are from dated U.S. Hermès listings and exclude sales tax. The $6,650 cabine is the Circuit 24 printed version; it is not the price of the standard $5,200 cabine.
Resale Market Prices
On October 6, 2026, 124 live U.S. Herbag Zip 31 listings had a median asking price of $3,075, below the standard $3,525 retail price. The sample includes used and new bags, including printed versions. The table covers Fashionphile, Rebag, Madison Avenue Couture, and Ann’s Fabulous Finds listings last seen in September–October 2026. These are seller asks; completed sale prices may differ.
- Live Asking Range (USD)
- $3,235–$5,995
- Median Ask / Listings
- $5,520; 45 listings
- Live Asking Range (USD)
- $1,345–$6,250
- Median Ask / Listings
- $3,075; 124 listings
- Live Asking Range (USD)
- $1,480–$2,820
- Median Ask / Listings
- About $2,500; 6 listings
- Live Asking Range (USD)
- $2,125–$3,130
- Median Ask / Listings
- $2,860; 3 listings
What Fits Inside
The Herbag's capacity varies significantly by size. The main interior is a single compartment plus the removable zipped pouch. The external back pocket is handy for quick-access items.
20What Fits in the Mini Herbag 20
- • Smartphone
- • Slim wallet or card holder
- • Keys
- • Lipstick or compact
- • AirPods
- (Essentials only — very compact)
31What Fits in the Herbag 31
- • Full wallet
- • Smartphone
- • Sunglasses case
- • Small cosmetics pouch
- • 7" tablet or small notebook
- • Keys, lip balm, essentials
- (Good everyday capacity)
39What Fits in the Herbag 39
- • Everything in the 31, plus:
- • 9-10" tablet or e-reader
- • Water bottle
- • Light sweater or cardigan
- • A4 documents (nearly fits)
- • Larger organizer pouch
The back pocket on all sizes (except vintage pre-Zip) is large enough for a phone and keys or passport — perfect for quick access without opening the main flap.
Comfort & Carry Options
The canvas body keeps the Herbag lighter than a similarly sized leather bag. The Zip 20 offers shoulder or crossbody carry; the standard Zip 31 and 39 have handles and shoulder straps. For the horizontal crossbody version, see the Herbag Messenger 39 guide.
Carry Options by Size
- Mini 20
- Shoulder or crossbody wear, with a collapsible handle. Strap length: 40.9 inches.
- 31
- Top handle and shoulder strap; suited to hand or shoulder carry.
- 39
- Standard Zip 39: hand or shoulder carry. Messenger 39: hand, shoulder, or crossbody carry.
- 50/52
- Top handle + strap. Primarily carried by hand or shoulder as a travel tote.
The wide, flat strap distributes weight well on shoulder. The canvas body keeps overall weight moderate even when filled. Most owners find the Herbag comfortable for everyday use — lighter than a leather Birkin or Kelly of comparable size.
Care & Maintenance
The Herbag's canvas body is durable but requires different care than full-leather bags. Proper maintenance will keep it looking fresh for years.
Care Tips
- Canvas CareBrush off dry dirt gently. Avoid wet wipes or soap — these can spread stains rather than remove them. For tough stains, seek professional cleaning.
- Leather TrimWipe with a soft dry cloth. The Vache Hunter will develop natural patina over time. Protect from water and oils; condition sparingly.
- Water ExposureThe canvas is somewhat water-resistant but not waterproof. If wet, blot immediately and air dry. Heavy rain can soak the canvas and leave marks.
- StorageStore stuffed lightly to maintain shape. Keep in its dustbag away from direct sunlight. The internal rod helps it hold structure even empty.
- InteriorThe canvas/suede interior can absorb odors and dirt. Clean small spills immediately. Use pouches to protect the lining.
How the Herbag Compares
The Herbag is more casual than the leather Kelly and has a flap closure that the Evelyne lacks.
Herbag 20 vs Herbag 31
- Herbag 20 (Mini)
- 8.1 × 6.5 × 2.8 inches
- Herbag 31
- 31 × 25 × 11 cm (12 × 10 × 4.5 inches)
- Herbag 20 (Mini)
- Shoulder or crossbody
- Herbag 31
- Handle + shoulder strap
- Herbag 20 (Mini)
- Phone, card wallet, keys only
- Herbag 31
- Wallet, phone, tablet, cosmetics
- Herbag 20 (Mini)
- Carrying just small essentials
- Herbag 31
- Daily use, versatile carry
- Herbag 20 (Mini)
- Collapsible handle
- Herbag 31
- Top handle included
- Herbag 20 (Mini)
- 40.9-inch length
- Herbag 31
- Shoulder strap
Herbag vs Kelly
- Herbag
- Canvas body + leather trim
- Kelly
- 100% leather
- Herbag
- Clou de Selle turnlock
- Kelly
- Turnlock + double flap clasp
- Herbag
- Handle + strap (Mini: strap only)
- Kelly
- Handle + detachable strap
- Herbag
- Soft/structured (metal rod)
- Kelly
- Rigid, structured
- Herbag
- Casual/sporty
- Kelly
- Formal, classic
- Herbag
- Light (canvas)
- Kelly
- Heavy (thick leather)
- Herbag
- $3,200 Zip 20; $3,525 standard Zip 31 (Sept.–Oct. 2026)
- Kelly
- $13,700 Kelly 25 Togo Retourne or Epsom Sellier (reported Jan. 2026 boutique price)
- Herbag
- Online and boutiques; stock varies
- Kelly
- Boutique offer; not sold online
Herbag vs Evelyne
- Herbag
- Trapezoidal Kelly shape
- Evelyne
- Rounded saddlebag shape
- Herbag
- Canvas + leather
- Evelyne
- Full leather (Clemence)
- Herbag
- Flap with turnlock
- Evelyne
- Open top or simple flap
- Herbag
- Casual-smart
- Evelyne
- Very casual/sporty
- Herbag
- Kelly-like silhouette
- Evelyne
- Perforated "H" on front
- Herbag
- Canvas with zip pouch
- Evelyne
- Raw suede lining
- Herbag
- Those wanting Kelly look casually
- Evelyne
- Everyday utility, active lifestyle
Is the Herbag Right for You?
The Herbag is ideal if you...
- • Want a Hermès bag you can buy directly when in stock
- • Love the Kelly silhouette but prefer casual style
- • Need a lightweight, travel-friendly bag
- • Appreciate the canvas-leather aesthetic
- • Want versatile carry options (handle + strap)
- • Seek the Mini 20 for modern crossbody wear
- • Value interchangeable styling possibilities
The Herbag might not suit you if...
- • You want a full-leather luxury bag
- • You need the Kelly for formal occasions
- • Canvas maintenance concerns you
- • You need to recover the full retail price when reselling
- • You prefer the most iconic Hermès silhouettes
- • You need many interior pockets/organization
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Hermès Guides
Interested in other Hermès bags? Explore our guides to the Hermès Evelyne (a sporty crossbody alternative) or the iconic Hermès Kelly that inspired the Herbag's silhouette. If you're comparing fabric-leather combos, the Steeple 25 vs 28 guide covers another canvas-and-leather option — a tote with equestrian-inspired handles. If you want to buy one at retail, our guide to buying a Herbag online covers which versions restock and what they cost. Set up restock alerts to hear when a Herbag is back online.
Key Takeaways
- Canvas Kelly alternative: The Herbag offers the Kelly's iconic trapezoidal shape in accessible canvas-and-leather construction.
- Compact, everyday, and travel sizes: The Zip 20 carries small essentials; the 31 and 39 hold more, while cabine versions suit travel.
- U.S. retail $3,200–$6,650: September–October 2026 prices span the Zip 20 through the printed Circuit 24 cabine. Pocket and printed Zip 31 prices are from May 2026.
- Mini Herbag 20 (2024): Introduced in 2024, the compact Zip 20 has shoulder and crossbody carry options.
- Two-in-one design: Interchangeable canvas bodies let you swap looks with a single leather top.
- Practical features: Back zip pocket for quick access, removable interior pouch, and Kelly-style turnlock closure.
- Zip 31 resale asks below standard retail: On October 6, 2026, the median asking price across 124 live U.S. listings was $3,075, including used and new bags. A seller’s ask does not show the final sale price.