In this article I will be sharing my review of a Hermès Kelly bag (replica version of the designer handbag, not authentic) with you.
Hermès bags are the creme de la creme of the handbag world in that they are one of the most sought after brands, and any serious handbag enthusiast has a good understanding of the brand’s history and prominence in the world of fashion. Similarly, Hermès replica bags are the creme de la creme of the replica world in that top quality replica versions of Hermès bags are also considered to be the jewel of any replica lovers’ collection.
Why did I want to buy a Hermès Kelly replica bag?
Here are some of the main features of the Hermès Kelly bag that really persuaded me to purchase a replica version of one:
1. It is a Crossbody
One thing I love about the Hermès Kelly handbag is that it is a crossbody bag and not overbearing in any sense. The bag is not only super chic but it is also super functional. I am a lover of crossbody bags (as already mentioned on this site in relation to other bags I have reviewed) so it is more or less predictable that I’d also easily fall in love with a bag that is arguably the ultimate crossbody purse.
2. Timeless Elegance
The Hermès Kelly bag has a classic and sophisticated design that has clearly stood the test of time when it comes to staying in vogue. Like other Hermès bags, the Kelly exudes an aura of timeless elegance and refinement. Additionally the bag can be worn for various occasions (e.g. both everyday events and formal events).
3. Craftsmanship and Quality
Hermès is renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each Kelly bag is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans using high-quality materials, such as fine leathers and precious metals. The result is a handbag that is built to last and ages beautifully with proper care. Top quality replica Hermès bags (i.e. super fakes) are also made with the same hand sewn method used by Hermès artisans.
4. Iconic Status
The Hermès Kelly bag has a rich history as it was first introduced in the 1930s and gained worldwide recognition when it became associated with actress and style icon Grace Kelly in the 1950s. Since then, it has become a symbol of luxury, sophistication, and refined taste.
5. Practicality
Despite being a super luxurious handbag, the Hermès Kelly is also designed in a way that makes it very practical when it comes to use. It features a structured silhouette, a spacious interior, and various compartments, allowing for organized storage of personal belongings. It often comes with a detachable shoulder strap (did I mention I love crossbody bags already?), offering versatility in carrying options.
6. Investment Value
The Hermès Kelly bag has shown a remarkable ability to retain or increase its value over time. Due to its limited availability and high demand, certain Hermès bags, including the Kelly, have been known to appreciate in value, making them potential investment pieces. Now this is all fine and dandy if you have $20,000 or more lying around and want to buy the real deal but I will argue that super fake Hermès bags are arguably even a better deal than the original in that you are saving thousands while getting virtually the same end product (in terms of function, looks, and style).
It’s clear that buying a Hermès Kelly bag offers many benefits (either authentic or replica). Now that you have a better sense as to why I decided to take the plunge and buy a Hermès Kelly replica handbag I will delve into the details of the actual bag I purchased and let you know whether I was ultimately disappointed or satisfied.
Is the bag a top quality Hermès Kelly replica?
As I’ve already noted above the bag that I purchased is a replica bag, meaning it is not an authentic version of the bag from an official Hermès store or a second hand reseller. Please also keep in mind while reading this review that this specific bag is not a super fake replica. Although some people may not be able to differentiate between this replica bag and an authentic Hermès Kelly I certainly can since I am an experienced designer fiend and self-dubbed replica expert.
What I mean when I say it is not a super fake Hermès handbag is that it is not a top quality replica bag that can be considered to be almost identical to authentic Hermès handbags. My goal as a replica shopper is to purchase super fake or as-close-to-real as possible replica bags.
Why am I sharing this review? Well I am sharing it for informational & learning purposes. In order to become good at spotting and shopping for replicas you need to see bad ones. Since buying this specific rep I have subsequently purchased many better quality and super fake Hermès bags. Reviews of those bags will also be shared on the blog. You can also read the Ultimate Guide to Shopping for Hermès Replicas.
Price of Hermès Kelly replica bag
The original Hermès Kelly bag in togo leather (28 cm) has an estimated retail price of $28,000 (US dollars) when buying the handbag second hand (based on authentic resale websites I visited online including 1stDibs).
How much did I pay for it as a replica? Well I got it for $750 + shipping.
That is a savings of about 98% off the retail price.
As I have already mentioned, I purchased this bag when I was a newbie to the replica world and as such it is not a super fake. I will go into the details about the bag’s flaws as a non-super fake bag in my discussion below.
Materials of Hermès Kelly replica bag
The material used to make this Hermès Kelly replica handbag is Black Togo leather. Togo leather is one of the most popular leather options when it comes to Hermès bags. Togo leather is a type of calf leather known for its durability, scratch resistance, and natural texture. In terms of its texture Togo leather has a pronounced, natural grain texture. The grain is slightly raised, giving the leather a pebbled appearance. At the same time Togo leather is relatively soft and supple, making it comfortable to touch and hold.
Now when it comes to Hermès replica bags, the best replica manufacturers will literally source leather from the same supplier as Hermès (from Europe itself). In this case, since I have seen many authentic Hermès bags and have experience with them, I can tell that the leather is not sourced from the original supplier as it has a slightly different feel. The look is very much on par with authentic Togo leather but there is that little something that is off and makes it less than.
Hardware of Hermès Kelly replica bag
The key pieces of hardware on a Hermès Kelly handbag include:
Turnlock Closure:
The most prominent hardware feature on the Hermès Kelly bag (whether authentic or replica) is the turnlock closure. It is a signature element of the bag and should be crafted from precious metals such as palladium, gold, or rose gold. The turnlock closure secures the bag’s flap in place, keeping the contents protected.
Lock and Keys:
The turnlock closure on the Hermès Kelly bag is accompanied by a lock and two matching keys. The lock is attached to a leather clochette, which hangs from one of the straps. The keys are used to unlock and secure the lock, adding an additional layer of security to the bag.
Strap Attachments:
The Hermès Kelly bag features metal attachments, known as strap attachments or strap anchors, on each side of the bag. These attachments are used to attach and secure the shoulder strap or the optional crossbody strap. Depending on how you like to carry your bag you can either keep the strap on or remove it.
Feet:
The bottom of the Hermès Kelly bag is often equipped with metal feet. These protective feet help to keep the bag elevated when placed on surfaces, protecting the leather from direct contact and potential damage.
Hardware Accents:
Various other hardware accents can be found on the Hermès Kelly bag, such as metal rings, buckles, and grommets. These accents serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, adding to the bag’s design and providing attachment points for straps and handles.
In terms of the replica Kelly that i purchased all the pieces of the hardware are present but the quality is subpar as: (1) the hardware feels light and does not have the heavier feel of authentic Hermès hardware, (2) the hardware is not made from palladium (super fake Hermès bags make their hardware from real palladium, gold, or rose gold just like authentic Hermès bags), (3) the engraving on the hardware (for the Hermès logo) is not done properly. As a result the hardware on this bag is one giveaway that the bag is not a good replica and can be called out as a fake.
Construction of Hermès Kelly replica bag
The shape of an authentic Hermès Kelly bag (or a super fake Kelly) should have certain characteristics that define its iconic silhouette. Here’s a description of the ideal shape of a Hermes Kelly bag:
Structured Silhouette:
A Hermès Kelly bag is known for its structured shape including clean, well-defined lines. Authentic Hermès Kelly bags (or a high quality replica Kelly) should maintain its shape even when empty. The bag should not appear slouchy or excessively saggy.
Trapezoidal Profile:
When viewed from the front, a HermèsKelly bag should have a distinctive trapezoidal shape. This means that the top of the bag, where the flap and handles are located, should be wider than the bottom. The sides of the bag should taper slightly towards the base.
Symmetry:
A Hermès Kelly bag should be symmetrical, with all sides and corners evenly balanced. The left and right sides of the bag should be mirror images of each other. The flap of the bag should align perfectly with the body of the bag when it is closed.
Corners that are Rounded:
The corners of a Hermès Kelly bag should be softly rounded, rather than sharp or angular.
Proportionate:
Although the proportions of a Hermès Kelly bag will depend on its size and style it can be generally said that the bag’s height should be approximately twice its width. This gives it a balanced and proportionate look.
When it comes to the Hermès Kelly I am reviewing I can spot some asymmetry in terms of the bag’s look and this gives it away to me as a fake. More specifically, both sides of the bag are not ‘mirrors’ of each other and seem slightly imbalanced. This is a clear sign that the bag is not a top quality Hermès replica.
Color comparison of Hermès Kelly replica bag
In terms of the color on the bag I can’t complain. I chose the color black purposefully as I knew it is a neutral color that is hard to go wrong with. One tip I often share to those who are new to shopping for replicas is that you should always pick a color that is neutral if you want to dodge any color mismatch ‘bullets’.
Although at the same time I can say that I am aware, in the case of Hermès replicas specifically, that certain manufacturers buy leather from the exact same supplier as the authentic Hermès workshops meaning that you can get an exact color match. However you have to make sure that the factory you are looking to shop with is in fact selling super fake or top quality Hermès replicas.
Serial number on Hermès Kelly replica bag
The serial number on a Hermès Kelly bag is typically located on the inner side of the bag (typically on a leather tab or patch). In most Hermès Kelly bags, you can actually find the serial number stamped on the backside of the strap attachment, which is usually located near the top of the bag’s interior.
This replica Hermès Kelly did not come with a serial number. Although I am not a rep shopper that needs a serial number as validation of proof of the quality of the bag (I’ve purchased plenty of bags without a serial number that look perfect otherwise) I will comment that advanced replica manufacturers are able to create custom serial numbers on super fake Hermès bags (in other words top quality Hermès replica handbags). In the case of Hermès, I would suggest that a replica manufacturer’s ability to add and customize a serial number (alongside other features including leather sourced from Europe, a hand constructed bag etc.) is a positive signal about the quality of their work.
Conclusion
Generally when shopping for replica bags it is important to realize that each bag you buy will either be a “lesson” or a “win”. A “win” is when the bag turns out to be almost identical to the original or authentic handbag and you give yourself a pat on the shoulder for a shopping expedition well completed. On the other hand the bag may turn out to be a “lesson” in that you learn (up, close, and personal) about what a less than perfect replica handbag looks like and use the lessons learned to improve your rep shopping prowess in the future.
This specific purchase turned out to be (not surprisingly) a “lesson” for me personally. I did not sulk however when I received the bag and realized the quality was subpar. Instead I used it to study Hermès bags with more detail, and as a result deepened my knowledge of Hermès handbags as a whole. I then used this knowledge to refine my shopping skills when it came to filtering out good/bad Hermès replicas.
Interested in seeing what a better quality Hermès replica looks like? Click here to read the Ultimate Guide to Hermès Replicas.
