Hermès extends its legacy – quite literally, with the Elan lineup. With East-West options for the Kelly, Constance, and Della Cavalleria, Hermès stays true to these styles while offering fresh perspectives that seamlessly blend heritage with modernity. As horizontal handbag silhouettes dominate the fashion scene, Hermès sets the standard, seamlessly blending heritage and modernity.
Let’s take a closer look at these icons and how Hermès has reimagined these coveted handbags.
Kelly Elan
Perhaps proof that true classics never die, the early-2000s Kelly Elan roared back into the handbag zeitgeist on the Hermès Spring-Summer 2023 runway. Originally released between 2000 and 2002 in highly limited numbers – primarily in Box calfskin and exotic leathers – the Kelly Elan quietly became a cult favorite among collector’s. Not surprisingly, the current iterations have fans new and old clamoring for this style.
Read also: Hermès Introduces Five New Bags for S/S 2023
Image courtesy: @worldofcasaharris
Recognized for its streamlined, elegant silhouette in the Sellier construction, the Kelly Elan reinterprets the classic Kelly with a chic shoulder strap, replacing the traditional top handle for a more modern, effortless appeal. Yet, it stays true to its heritage, preserving the iconic touret fastening and subtly trapezoidal shape –both hallmarks of the original Kelly. Measuring approximately 11 x 6 x 1.5 inches, the Kelly Elan is noticeably longer than the Kelly 25 and taller than the Kelly Pochette, giving it a distinct presence in any collection.
Image courtesy: @thesoutherndutchess
Designed for effortless wear, the Kelly Elan can be styled on the shoulder and sits neatly under the arm. The reissued version features thoughtful updates to enhance versatility – the original back shoulder strap has been removed, and replaced with a fully detachable shoulder strap. While the strap isn’t adjustable, press-stud fastenings inside the bag allow for easy removal, instantly transforming the Kelly Elan into an elegant clutch. This clever detail makes the bag a true two-in-one piece, perfect for both day and evening wear.
Read also: The Re-released Hermès Kelly Elan – The Bag that Every Collector Wants
Image courtesy: @worldofcasaharris
Image courtesy: @worldofcasaharris
The Kelly Elan is most commonly crafted in Epsom leather, known for its structured feel and durability. However, it is also available in a range of luxurious variations, including Box Calfskin, Chèvre Chamkila, Doblis Suede, and Shiny Porosus Crocodile. For those seeking the extraordinary, exotic options include the Kelly Elan Folie – a striking combination of Shiny Crocodile and delicate ostrich feathers. As of now, the Kelly Elan in Epsom leather retails for $10,600.
Read also: An Insider’s Guide to Hermès Leathers
Constance Elan
Along came the Constance Elan. Expanding the Constance lineup, the Hermès Constance Elan was first introduced in 2010. Though it quickly became popular, it was retired in 2017 after just seven years. But as the saying goes, what goes around comes back around, and the Constance Elan was reintroduced in the Spring-Summer 2024 collection.
Read also: Hermès Constance Elan: Comparing The New Released Version With the Original
Image courtesy: @shamswomoon
Staying true to the timeless appeal of the iconic 1959 Constance, the Constance Elan stretches the original silhouette into a sleek, elongated form. Secured with the signature ‘H’ clasp fastening, the bag measures approximately 9.8 x 5.9 x 1.9 inches. Unlike its predecessor, which featured two accordion-style compartments, the reissued Constance Elan has one main compartment, complemented by several slip pockets inside for easy organization. While noticeably smaller than earlier iterations, this reissued version offers a more compact and lightweight form.
In contrast to the Kelly Elan, the Constance Elan features a fixed shoulder strap attached with hardware loops – a signature feature of the original Constance. The strap is adjustable to two lengths, allowing it to be worn either long for shoulder or crossbody wear, or doubled up for an elegant, under-the-arm look.
Image courtesy: @lyamariella
Image courtesy: @shamswomoon
Most commonly offered in Epsom leather, the Constance Elan is also available in Swift, Box Calfskin, Evergreen, and luxurious exotic leathers like Alligator, Crocodile, and Ostrich.
Image courtesy: Red
Della Cavalleria Elan
Last but not least, we have the Della Cavalleria Elan, a contemporary addition to Hermès’ expansive handbag collection. The Della Cavalleria Elan reimagines the 2020 silhouette, elevating its minimalist box-bag shape into a sleek, elongated design.
Image courtesy: Hermès
Introduced in the Spring-Summer 2023 collection, the Elan offers refined proportions and a more spacious interior, while retaining the signature horse bit fastening and the familiar curved underside. Measuring 8.6 x 5.1 x 2.7 inches, it provides a roomier yet compact design. Practical details, like a back slip pocket and interior card pocket, ensure easy access to your essentials.
Read also: Is the Hermès Della Cavalleria Making Your Wishlist?
Like the original, the Della Cavalleria Elan comes with an adjustable shoulder strap for versatile wear. It can be styled on the shoulder or worn crossbody, offering a hands-free option.
Image courtesy: @_kiki_164
Crafted in Epsom and Tadelakt leathers, the Della Cavalleria Elan in Epsom currently retails for $7,650.
Image courtesy: @_kiki_164
What do you think of these elongated Elan silhouettes? Do you prefer the modern update or the classic version? We’d love to hear your thoughts on the Hermès Elan lineup.
Read related articles:
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The Re-released Hermès Kelly Elan – The Bag that Every Collector Wants
Hermès Constance Elan: Comparing The New Released Version With the Original
Is the Hermès Della Cavalleria Making Your Wishlist?
Meet the Kellys: The Ultimate Hermès Kelly Dictionary
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Updated: April 26th, 2025
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