What Length Shoulder Strap Should I Order for a Hermès Mini Kelly Special Order to Wear it Crossbody?

Dear PurseBop:

What is the best shoulder strap length on a mini Kelly to wear it crossbody comfortably?

Dear Shoulder Strap Length:

The mini Kelly is a great bag to wear crossbody because it is small and can sit comfortably next to the body. Wearing it crossbody keeps this valuable and coveted bag secure and close to you at all times.

The standard leather mini Kelly (non Special Order) comes with a 93cm shoulder strap. When worn crossbody it appears to hit at the waist for most average sized people. Many find this too short and uncomfortable. Others find it acceptable and comfortable despite being a tad short.

When ordering a Mini Kelly through the Special Order (SO) process (also referred to as a la carte), there is more than one strap length to choose from. The lengths available for all Kellys are 70cm, 85cm, 105cm, and 120cm.

The 105cm length is the most common size ordered for a Special Order mini Kelly. This length sits comfortably crossbody at the hip on the average body type. It can also be worn comfortably as a shoulder strap at this length so it is more versatile.

For comparison purposes, the shoulder strap on a Kelly 25 and Kelly 28 is 85cm and is not meant to be worn crossbody. This is a comfortable length for most people when worn on the shoulder.

If the strap is too long there is an option at Hermès to have the strap shortened by the aftercare team, either in your home store or by Paris. The aftercare department will shorten the shoulder strap for any Kelly bag up to 10cm. This is helpful if you are taller and order the 120cm length but find it is a little long or if the other lengths are too long for your height.

Good luck and happy shopping.