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Hermès Constance bag in black leather

Hermes Constance: History, Style & More

As one of Hermès’ iconic bags, the Constance is loved by fashion enthusiasts and collectors for its signature “H” buckle, exquisite craftsmanship, and elegant design.

However, getting your hands on one isn’t easy, especially when it comes to popular colors and materials, which can be nearly impossible to find.

So, is there an easier way to own a Constance? Keep reading!

 

The Story Behind the Hermes Constance

The Hermes Constance was launched in 1959 and created by designer Catherine Chaillet.

Chaillet was pregnant with her 5th child when she designed the bag. She then named it after her newborn daughter Constance and interestingly the bag left the Hermès warehouse the same day Constance was born.

Like the Kelly, the Constance owes some of its fame to a celebrity, Jacqueline Kennedy. The former First Lady was often seen carrying the Constance.

The Constance is elegant and practical. With its simple lines and compact size it’s a classic that never goes out of fashion. Despite being over 60 years old the basic design of the bag has remained almost the same with only a few minor updates.

Along with the Birkin and the Kelly, the Constance is part of Hermès’ “Holy Trinity” of handbags. While it may not be as famous as the other two it’s just as coveted and hard to get.

 

Hermes Constance Design

The Hermès Constance is a slightly rectangular flap bag with a signature spring-loaded “H” buckle closure. The adjustable shoulder strap can be worn long for a cross-body look or doubled up for a chic shoulder bag style.

Inside, you’ll find two slip pockets, and larger versions also have a zippered pocket.

The Constance comes in two variations: the single gusset (one compartment) and the double gusset (two compartments). The double gusset gives you more space to keep everything neat and tidy!

In addition to the classic Constance, Hermès also offers the Constance Elan and Constance Cartable. The Elan is a longer, slimmer version, while the Cartable is wider and taller.

 

Why We Love the Hermes Constance Bag

A Classic with a History – The Constance has been around for decades with hardly any changes. It’s timeless.

Perfect Craftsmanship – Each Constance is made by one artisan and takes 14 hours to finish. The craftsmanship and precision are unparalleled. It’s Hermès after all.

Materials & Colors – The Constance comes in many materials (leather, crocodile, ostrich) and colors so there’s one for everyone.

Exclusivity – Since it’s less common than the Birkin or Kelly, having a Constance feels more special.

 

Materials of the Constance Bag

The Constance was originally made in Box Calf leather or Porosus Crocodile with gold hardware. Over time Hermès has added many more materials, hardware and sizes to the bag.

1. Box leather

Box leather is the most popular. It’s a more structured, stiff leather that holds its shape beautifully, making the Constance look sharp and elegant. However, it does require a bit of care because it can scratch easily.

2. Epsom leather

If you’re looking for leather that’s more resistant to everyday wear and tear, Epsom leather is a great choice. It’s durable, lightweight, and has a slightly textured finish, which helps hide scratches better than some other leathers.

3. Evercolor leather

Evercolor leather is another popular option, known for its buttery soft texture and impressive resilience. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re after a bag that feels luxurious but is still durable enough for daily use.

For special editions, the Constance is made from exotic materials like crocodile, alligator, and ostrich. There are even suede and canvas versions.

1. Crocodile

Features: This leather has a smooth, glossy surface with well-defined scale patterns. It naturally reflects light, enhancing its luxurious appearance.

Pros: Extremely elegant and prestigious, crocodile leather develops an even richer sheen over time, making it more stunning with age.

2. Alligator

Features: Has smaller, more uniform scales. It is softer than crocodiles and has a more intense shine.

Pros: Known for its ultra-luxurious feel, alligator leather is one of Hermès’ most collectible and highly valued exotic materials. Its refined texture makes it a top choice for exclusive bags.

3. Ostrich

Features: Recognizable by its unique dotted texture from natural follicle marks, ostrich leather is soft, flexible, and has a slightly matte finish with a subtle sheen.

Pros: Lightweight yet durable, ostrich leather is scratch-resistant and water-resistant. It also absorbs dye exceptionally well, resulting in rich, deep colors with beautiful dimensions.

4. Lizard

Features: Characterized by small, uniform scales, lizard leather has an elegant, refined appearance with a smooth, glossy surface.

Pros: One of Hermès’ rarest and most exclusive leathers, the lizard is commonly used for smaller Constance sizes, giving them a delicate yet sophisticated look.

In terms of hardware, most Constance bags come with palladium or gold plated finishes but some limited editions have rose gold, enamel or even diamond encrusted closures. The interior is typically lined with soft lambskin.

Hermès Constance Sizes & Styles

The Hermès Constance 18 was the original size when the bag was first launched. Since it first came out, the Hermès Constance has gone through some changes and now comes in a variety of sizes.

Over time, some sizes like the 23, 25, and 29 have been discontinued. The most popular sizes today are the Micro 14, the Mini 18 (also called the Mini Constance), and the 24.

The Constance 18 (Constance 19) is the ultimate classic and is still the most popular size among collectors.

The Micro Constance 14 is the smallest size but it’s so rare to find, either in boutiques or on the secondary market.

Hermès Style
Constance 14 / Constance Micro
Constance 18 /Constance Mini
Constance 24
Dimensions (centimeters)
14 cm x 11 cm x 3 cm
18 cm x 14.5 cm x 4 cm
24 cm x 15 cm x 5 cm
Dimensions (inches)
5.5” x 4.3” x 1.2”
7.1” x 5.7” x 1.6”
9.4” x 5.9” x 2”

Which Constance Size is Right for You? Capacity and Occasions

  • Constance 14 (Micro Constance)

Perfect for just a few essentials like cards, keys, and lipstick. It’s so small that even your phone won’t fit inside.

Best for: Fancy events, parties, or any occasion where you want to add a little sparkle to your outfit.

  • Constance 18 (Mini Constance)

This is the most popular size, with enough space for your iPhone, compact powder, keys, and wallet.

Best for: Daily use, but also works well for more formal outfits. You can wear it on your shoulder or across your body.

  • Constance 24

Bigger in size, it can comfortably hold everyday essentials like a phone, keys, a small wallet, lip balm, and even a small pair of sunglasses. 

Best for: Both business and casual wear. It’s perfect for work and can easily transition into daily outings or weekend wear.

Different sizes of the Hermès Constance bag: 14, 18, and 24
Hermes Constance 14 vs 18 vs 24

 

Besides the different sizes, Hermès has also come up with some stylish variations of the Constance bag.

You’ve got the Constance Wallet To Go, which combines the classic Constance design with the practicality of a wallet.

Then there’s the Constance Elan 24, which is a more elongated version of the regular Constance 24, offering sleek, modern lines for a more fashion-forward look.

Also in the mix is the Constance Cartable 29, a larger version perfect for those who need more space.

And for a slimmer take, there’s the Constance 1-24, which features a single gusset instead of two.

Constance bag Hermes collection including Mini, Sim, New Elan, To Go and Old Elan models

 

Hermès Constance Colors

Just like with other Hermès bags, collectors typically gravitate toward Constance bags in timeless, neutral colors. There’s also a strong demand for the latest trendy colors from Hermès.

The classic Hermès neutral colors are some of the best options when it comes to investing in a Constance bag. These colors are not only super easy to match with anything, but they also hold strong demand and keep a good resale value.

Noir – Black is the ultimate classic color that never goes out of style, and when paired with gold hardware, it looks extra luxurious.

Gold – A vintage, elegant warm brown that works perfectly with both gold and silver hardware.

Etoupe – A sophisticated gray with a touch of warm brown, making it a popular and classy choice on the resale market.

Nata – A softer, warmer white than Craie, Nata gives off a gentle, elegant vibe.

Craie – A pure, clean white that creates a minimalist, luxurious feel, perfect for a fresh, high-end look.

For those who love to stay on top of trends and want to own limited-edition colors, Hermès also offers some stunning fashion-forward shades:

Capucine – A vibrant mix of orange and red, this color is full of energy and perfect for the spring and summer seasons.

Bleu Atoll – A fresh, unique turquoise blue that feels like the crystal-clear waters and skies of a tropical island, giving off serious vacation vibes.

Rouge Piment – A deep, bold red with hints of orange, offering a perfect balance of fiery passion and elegance. It’s a color full of personality and character.

Hermes Constance bags in multiple colors with H logo details

 

Constance Limited Editions and Special Releases

The Hermès Constance also comes out in new limited edition versions almost every season, giving collectors something special to look forward to.

One of the latest is the Constance Sac Miroir Clouté, made from Black Box leather with silver studs on the front, it’s bold and edgy.

Then there’s the Constance Marble Silk from 2021, which uses a marbling technique called “suminagashi” (floating ink). This technique, which originated in Japan in the 12th century, creates beautiful, deconstructed patterns with shimmering colors on silk.

The Constance Au Bout du Monde, also known as the “Endless Road,” is another Limited Edition from 2019. This bag is inspired by the “Au Bout du Monde” scarf designed by Antoine Carbonne. The landscape motif from the scarf is beautifully translated onto the Constance, using luxurious materials like alligator, lizard, and other fine leathers.

Constance Hermès in Box Calf with studded detailsConstance bag in Rose Mexico Swift leatherHermès Constance in the unique Au Bout Du Monde design
Constance Sac Miroir CloutéConstance Marble SilkConstance Au Bout du Monde

 

Hermes Constance Price Guide

In 2024, if you buy a leather Constance 18 from the boutique, it will cost you $8,950 for the Epsom leather and $10,400 for Chevre leather. 

If you’re looking at a pre-loved Constance 18 on the resale market, prices range from $15,000 to $20,000 depending on the color. Chevre leather usually goes for around $15,000.

Resale prices for the Constance 18 are a bit lower than other Hermès bags because this style isn’t as popular. But if it’s a limited edition, you will see a higher price tag, often more than the boutique price.

 

Is Hermes Constance Hard to Buy?

Since Constance is a quota bag, getting one requires more than just the budget—it also takes patience and a bit of luck. The challenge is just as high as trying to get a Birkin or Kelly!

Why is the Hermès Constance So Hard to Buy?

Strict Quota System

As one of Hermès’ three iconic bags, the Constance is hard to find directly in stores. Typically, you need a strong purchase history to be eligible to buy one. For non-VIP customers, the required spending can be quite significant.

High Demand and Premium in the Secondary Market

Since it’s difficult to get in-store, many buyers turn to the secondary market, where Constance bags are often priced much higher than their original retail price. Popular colors or rare leather versions can be marked up by more than double.

Popular Colors and Materials Are Even Harder to Get

Basic colors and current-season trendy shades are often pre-ordered by VIP clients as soon as they hit stores, making it nearly impossible for regular customers to get their hands on them. Additionally, rare materials like crocodile and lizard leather are extremely scarce.

Hermès’ Deliberate Limited Supply Strategy

Part of Hermès’ brand strategy is “scarcity.” They tightly control the supply of Constance bags to create high premiums and strong collector value. So, even if you meet the purchasing requirements, getting your desired version isn’t guaranteed.

 

Buy Your Hermes Constance at Perfecthbags

If you’re facing the high cost and scarcity of the Hermès Constance, Perfecthbags gives you an easier, more practical option.

No Need for High Spending, Get Your Desired Constance Right Away

At Hermès boutiques, purchasing a Constance often requires spending tens of thousands of dollars, and even then, you still cannot get the color or material you want.

At Perfecthbags, you can choose your perfect style directly, without spending extra or waiting—own your dream bag with ease!

Affordable Prices

Compared to the high premiums in the secondary market, Perfecthbags offers a much more reasonable price, so you can enjoy the luxury of Hermès without spending tens of thousands of dollars.

Customizable Constance Just for You

Popular colors and rare materials are often hard to find at Hermès boutiques, but with Perfecthbags, you can freely choose your preferred combinations without being limited by Hermès’ stock.

Perfecthbags offers customization services, allowing you to own a truly unique Constance.

Authentic Leather Sourcing

Perfecthbags sources the same premium leather as Hermès, ensuring that every bag matches the texture, sheen, grain, and feel of boutique-level quality.

Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans, with hardware, plating, stitching, and edge finishing meeting Hermès’ high standards.

Experienced Craftsmen

Our team of artisans is made up of skilled luxury craftsmen, including retired Hermès artisans who provide expert guidance.

This ensures that every stitch and detail meets the high standards of Hermès, guaranteeing top quality in every piece.

Masterful Craftsmanship

We commit to ensuring every Constance follows the “original standards”, striving for perfection in every detail.

Our craftsmanship matches Hermès in every way—from leather selection to hardware polishing and stitching techniques, we maintain the highest standards to ensure each bag is almost flawless.

We use the same materials and techniques as Hermès to deliver a luxurious experience that’s indistinguishable from the original.

Global Shipping, Fast Delivery

Free global shipping, luxury delivered to your doorstep.

Each bag is handcrafted by our skilled artisans, with a production time of approximately 15-35 days to ensure every detail is perfect.

Once done, we use secure and reliable international logistics to ship your Constance to you, so no matter where you are in the world, you can enjoy your bags easily.

Lifetime Care and Warranty

Perfecthbags offers lifetime maintenance and care service so your bag always stays in top condition for a lasting luxury experience.

Whether it’s daily care, cleaning, hardware repairs, or refurbishment, our professional team will provide top-quality service, and keep your Constance looking brand new.

 

Get Your Constance Now

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a Hermès Constance but don’t want to deal with the tricky “Hermès Game” or the crazy price hikes, Perfecthbags is your perfect solution!

🔥 Visit the Perfecthbags website now and discover our high-quality Constance collection!
🎨 Want a custom piece? Contact us for exclusive customization options!
📸 Still skeptical? Check out real buyer reviews and see the top-tier craftsmanship of Perfecthbags!

Don’t wait any longer—let the Hermès Constance become your personal style icon!

Check Out How Perfecthbags Makes an Hermes Constance:

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