Hermes Mini Faceoff: Birkin 25 versus Kelly 25

Part I: Official Size Comparison: Birkin 25 vs. Birkin 30
Part II: Official Size Comparison: Kelly 25 vs. Kelly 28
Part III: Official Style Comparison: Kelly Sellier vs. Kelly Retourne

This is the fourth part of a five-part series on Birkin and Kelly sizes and styles

By @e14bz

Let’s recap: As a newbie navigating my way through unknown, uncharted, winding roads of the elusive and complex world of Hermès, I have made many bag size mistakes. After considerable hits and misses, I am finally at a point where I feel like I know what works for me in terms of bag styles and sizes. And I thought I would share my experience with people who are starting their H journey. I am in no way an expert, but here are some snippets from my humble experience that I hope you find useful.

Today, we’re going to compare the Birkin 25 (25 cm x 20 cm x 13 cm) vs. Kelly 25 (25 cm x 19 cm x 9 cm) (here a retourne).

@el4bz

@el4bz

Pros of the Birkin 25

All your possessions inside a B25 are easily accessible because it’s essentially a tote
Suitable for more of a causal look, but can still be used for formal events
It’s a mini bag with a twist because it can still fit tons inside
A Birkin in general epitomizes something special and iconic
I’m sure most of us are familiar with the saying, “It’s not a bag, it’s a Birkin!”

Cons of the Birkin 25

The handle drop of a B25 can be very frustrating (if you are wearing bracelets or a thick coat, getting in and out can be quite a struggle)
Difficult to carry during winters when when wearing layers of clothing
The dimensions may make it look like a ‘toy’ bag to some. A tote is generally a bigger bag, so a B25 does not fit the mold of a true tote in that sense
Trying to balance a B25 while running errands or shopping for things can be a nightmare. It’s hard to juggle holding multiple things when carrying a B25
Hard to use as a travel bag when you are traveling with kids
Because there is no (easily used) closure, the bag is not as secure while traveling or shopping

@el4bz

@el4bz

Pros of the Kelly 25

The shoulder strap is a blessing, so the bag can be carried multiple ways
Unlike the handle drop of a B25 which is narrow and small, that of a K25 is perfect. One can easily slide their arms inside the handles, even when wearing chunky coats or bracelets
Winter or summer (or for that matter any season), this bag is ideal to carry
Can easily go crossbody for anyone preferring a hands-free look
Can be a perfect travel or shopping bag with its shoulder strap
You can carry multiple things at the same time while carrying a K25
The secure closing on the K25 makes it ideal to use anywhere with peace of mind
The Kelly bag in general epitomizes elegance, timelessness and grace
Can be used for both casual and formal occasions
Even though it is a mini bag, the dimensions of the bag are such that it doesn’t give the appearance of being a super small bag aesthetically (even though a B25 is technically bigger than a K25!)

Cons of the Kelly 25

The opening and closing of a Kelly can be cumbersome for some, unlike the B25 which generally stays open
It’s smaller than a B25 in size, so in practice fits less
The slouchy look of a Kelly retourne may not be an ideal look for everyone (though you could always go for a K25 Sellier)

@elbz’s Final Choice

The K25 wins by a landslide for me. And it’s no wonder—you can tell just by looking at the balance of the pros and cons! Even though I am always torn between my love for Birkins and Kellys, if I had to pick between a B25 and a K25, I would choose the K25 in a heartbeat. The shoulder strap for me is a game changer. It allows me to go anywhere and do anything without worrying about how I am going to be holding it.

Tell us: is it the Birkin 25 or Kelly 25 that’s stolen your heart? Has this article made you rethink things?

Read related articles:

Official Size Comparison: Birkin 25 vs. Birkin 30
Official Size Comparison: Kelly 25 vs. Kelly 28
Official Size Comparison: Kelly Sellier vs. Kelly Retourne