photo courtesy @isabells.style
Exciting news – or is it? The much anticipated Hermès Special Order colors for 2025 have been revealed. However, for those eagerly awaiting a fresh lineup of hues, the lineup may come as a surprise – nearly all colors from last year have returned, with very few changes.
photo courtesy @pretty_purses
That said, there are still plenty of ways to craft a truly unique Hermès Special Order (SO) bag. Below, we break down the available colors, offer creative ideas to make your bag stand out, and provide a step-by-step guide to ensure you’re fully prepared for your bespoke Hermès experience.
photo courtesy @petitie_favorite
Before you begin, we highly recommend reviewing our Guide to Hermès Special Orders in 2024 to familiarize yourself with the process.
Read also: Guide to Hermès Special Orders in 2024
Step-by-Step Guide
Courtesy Red App
This Guide is designed to assist in the decision-making process and help avoid surprises during your Special Order appointment. Often, a client has a vision of their dream bag, only to discover that their preferred color, leather, or size isn’t available for selection. By reviewing the information below, you can confidently approach your appointment, ensuring your choices align with what is truly possible.
photo courtesy The Red App
Twice a year, in the Spring and Fall, select Hermès boutiques invite a limited number of clients to create a personalized bag. Clients can customize their bag’s color, leather, stitching, and hardware within certain guidelines. The end result is a truly one-of-a-kind, exclusive Hermès piece tailored to your unique vision.
photo courtesy The Red App
The Birkin and Kelly remain the most popular choices for Special Orders. However, other sought-after non-quota bags like the Kelly Pochette, Constance, and Lindy, are also available for customization. Some clients seize the opportunity to secure the most elusive pieces, such as the Mini Kelly or Kelly Pochette, while others choose their perfect everyday companion, whether it’s the Birkin in the size 25 or 30, or the Kelly 25 or 28.
photo courtesy The Red App
Designing a Special Order Hermès bag is an exciting yet overwhelming process, especially knowing your creation won’t arrive for months – or even a year or more. With so many elements to consider, the key is to take it step by step, building your vision one choice at a time. From selecting the perfect leather to finalizing the finishing touches, each decision plays a role in crafting a truly unique piece.
photo courtesy The Red App
Step One: Choosing the Style & Size
photo courtesy The Red App
The first step in creating your Hermès Special Order bag is selecting the style and size. This choice determines which leathers will be available for that style and size bag. Most clients opt for a quota bag, but there are also non-quota styles and men’s bags that can be customized.
Notably, in 2025, Birkin Sellier sizes 25 and 30 have been taken off the Special Order list.
photo courtesy The Red App
Quota Bags
| Bag Style | Available Sizes |
| Mini Kelly Sellier II | 20 |
| Mini Kelly Pochette (1st Gen) | One size |
| Kelly Sellier | 25, 28, 32, 35 |
| Kelly Retourne | 25, 28, 32, 35, 40 |
| Birkin Retourne | 25, 30, 35, 40 |
photo courtesy The Red App
Non-Quota Bags
| Bag Style | Available Sizes |
| Constance | 1-24 |
| 24/24 | 29, 35 |
| Bolide 1923 | Mini, 25, 30 |
| Jige Élan | 29 |
| Lindy | Mini, 26, 30 |
| Picotin Lock | 18, 22, 26 |
| Roulis | Mini, 23 |
Men’s Bags
| Bag Style | Available Sizes |
| Kelly Dépêches II Pochette | 25 |
| Kelly Dépêches II Porte-Documents | 36 |
| Sac á Dépêches Messenger | 21, 25 |
| Haut Á Courroies (HAC) | 40 |
| Hac Á Dos | PM, GM |
photo courtesy @emc_paris
Step Two: Selecting Your Leather
photo courtesy The Red App
Choosing the right leather is one of the most important steps in creating your Special Order bag. With a wide range of leathers available, your decision will influence not only the look and feel of your bag but also its durability and long-term wear. Whether you prefer a classic leather like Togo, or something more exotic like Alligator, there’s a choice of leather to suit every style and taste.
A key update for 2025 – Ostrich leather is no longer available for Special Orders.
Read also: An Insider’s Guide to Hermès Leathers
photo courtesy The Red App
- Clemence
- Togo
- Swift
- Epsom
- Chevre (Mysore Goatskin)
- Matte Crocodile (VVIP)
- Shiny (Polished) Crocodile (VVIP)
- Shiny (Polished) Alligator (VVIP)
photo courtesy The Red App
Step Three: Choose Your Leather Based on Style and Size
photo courtesy @happyzboys
Now that you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s time to determine which leathers are available for the specific style and size of the bag you’ve selected. Keep in mind that not all leathers are offered across every size or style, so some variations may apply depending on your choice. It’s essential to check which leather options align with the bag you’ve envisioned to avoid any surprises later.
photo courtesy The Red App
Quota Bags
| Bag Style | Available Leathers |
| Mini Kelly II | Matte/Polished Crocodile, Chèvre Mysore, Epsom |
| Kelly Pochette | Swift |
| Kelly Sellier 25 & 28 | Polished Crocodile, Chèvre Mysore, Epsom |
| Kelly Sellier 32 & 35 | Polished Crocodile, Epsom |
| Kelly Retourne 25 & 35 | Matte Crocodile, Swift, Togo |
| Kelly Retourne 28 & 32 | Matte Crocodile, Clemence, Swift, Togo |
| Kelly Retourne 40 | Togo |
| Birkin 25 | Matte/Polished Crocodile, Chèvre Mysore, Togo |
| Birkin 30 | Matte/Polished Crocodile, Chèvre Mysore, Epsom |
| Birkin 35 | Matte Crocodile, Epsom, Togo |
| Birkin 40 | Togo |
photo courtesy The Red App
Non-Quota Bags
| Bag Style | Available Leathers |
| 24/24, 29 & 35 | Swift, Togo |
| Bolide 1923, Mini | Matte Crocodile, Chèvre Mysore |
| Bolide 1923, 25 & 30 | Epsom |
| Lindy Mini, 26, & 30 | Swift |
| Picotin Lock, 18, 22 & 26 | Clemence |
| Roulis Mini | Polished Crocodile, Matte Crocodile, Swift |
| Roulis 23 | Polished Crocodile, Matte Crocodile, Clemence |
| Jige Elan 29 | Swift |
photo courtesy The Red App
Men’s Bags
| Bag Style | Available Leathers |
| Kelly Dépêches II Pochette 25 | Matte Crocodile, Epsom, Togo |
| Kelly Dépêches II Porte-Documents 36 | Matte Crocodile, Epsom, Togo |
| Haut Á Courroies (HAC) 40 | Togo |
| Hac Á Dos (PM, GM) | Barenia Faubourg, Togo |
| Sac á Dépêches Messenger, 21 & 29 | Matte Crocodile, Barenia Faubourg, Togo |
Image courtesy @birkinclub4boys
Step Four: Choose Your Color
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
With the style, size, and leather selected, it’s now time to explore the available colors for each leather type. Take your time to review the list of colors below, noting the specific options available for each leather.
Read also: New Hermès Colors 2025
photo courtesy The Red App
The colors and corresponding Hermès code available in 2025 are as follows:
Matte Alligator/Crocodile
| Color | Code |
| Vanille | Y1 |
| Gold | 37 |
| Noir | 89 |
| Bleu Saphir | 73 |
| Vert Rousseau | V0 |
| Rouge Sellier | OG |
| Vert D’Eau | 6U |
| Bleu Zellige | I7 |
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
Polished Alligator/Crocodile
| Color | Code |
| Noir | 89 |
| Graphite | 88 |
| Bordeaux | 57 |
| Havane | 41 |
| Vert Rousseau | V0 |
| Vert Jade | O6 |
| Bleu Electrique | 7T |
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
Clemence Leather
| Color | Code |
| Nata | 89 |
| Etoupe | 18 |
| Gold | 37 |
| Beton | 8L |
| Noir | 89 |
| Bleu de Prusse | 7F |
| Vert Cypress | 6O |
| Macassar | 35 |
| Rouge H | 55 |
| Bleu Jean | D2 |
| Gris Meyer | QL |
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
Togo Leather
| Color | Code |
| Craie | 10 |
| Gris Perle | 80 |
| Gris Etain | 8F |
| Naturel Sable | 21 |
| Biscuit | 4B |
| Noir | 89 |
| Vert Rousseau | V0 |
| Bleu Nuit | 2Z |
| Rouge Sellier | QG |
| Bleu Saphir | 73 |
| Gris Meyer | QL |
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
Swift Leather
| Color | Code |
| Beton | 8L |
| Biscuit | 4B |
| Gold | 37 |
| Beige de Weimer | DQ |
| Noir | 89 |
| Vert Rousseau | V0 |
| Caban | 3Y |
| Ébène | 46 |
| Bleu Zellige | I7 |
| Gris Meyer | QL |
| Vert Criquet | 3I |
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
Epsom Leather
| Color | Code |
| Craie | 10 |
| Biscuit | 4B |
| Gold | 37 |
| Noir | 89 |
| Bleu Saphir | 73 |
| Vert Cypress | 6O |
| Rouge Sellier | QG |
| Bleu du Nord | P3 |
| Gris Meyer | QL |
| Vert Jade | O6 |
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
Chèvre Leather
| Color | Code |
| Nata | I2 |
| Etoupe | 18 |
| Kraft | 2H |
| Brique | 34 |
| Caramel | 28 |
| Noir | 89 |
| Rouge H | 55 |
| Deep Bleu | S4 |
| Navy | 7U |
| Bleu France | 71 |
| Vert Criquet | 3I |
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
Linings (Interior of Bag)
| Color | Code |
| Gris Perle | 8Q |
| Noir | 89 |
| Gold | 37 |
| Nata | I2 |
| Framboise | 9Q |
| Orange Poppy | 8V |
| Bordeaux | 57 |
| Lime | 9R |
| Bleu Saphir | 73 |
| Bleu Indigo | 76 |
photo courtesy @thehermesclub
Step Five: Making the Most of the 2025 Color Selection
photo courtesy @theclassicist_
The 2025 color list may feel limited, with a noticeable absence of brights or pastel hues. However, while some may find the selection restrictive, others appreciate the emphasis on neutral and darker tones. If you’re envisioning a bi-color bag with complementary shades, this is where creativity becomes key.
To help you design a standout Special Order bag, we’ve gathered inspiration from our community, showcasing successful combinations that work beautifully within this year’s color palette.
photo courtesy @wjenga
When designing your Hermès Special Order, you have three primary layout options:
- Line: A single color for both the exterior and interior, and it must have contrasting stitching.
- Bi-Color or Multico: Two different colors are chosen for the exterior – typically one color for the front and back panels, and a second color for the sangles, handles, side panels, and shoulder strap. The interior matches the first exterior color. Stitching can be tone-on-tone or contrasting.
- Verso: One color for the entire exterior, with a contrasting interior chosen from the Linings color list. Stitching can be either tone-on-tone or contrasting.
Many clients opt for the Line or Bi-Color styles to create a highly distinctive Special Order bag, instantly recognizable as a Special Order even without eyeing the coveted Horseshoe stamp under the flap. Others prefer a more understated look and choose Verso for a subtle, personalized touch.
photo courtesy The Red App
HSS version Line
Noir/white stitching
photo courtesy @worldofcasaharris
Version multi-co
Vert Cricquet, Graphite, contrast stitching, permabrass hardware
photo courtesy The Red App
Version verso
Noir Matte Alligator/Lime, black stitching, permabrass hardware
Step Six: Choosing the Stitching: Tone on Tone or Contrasting
photo courtesy The Red App
When it comes to stitching, there are a variety of options to either match or contrast with the leather color of your bag. You can opt for tone-on-tone stitching, which blends seamlessly with the leather, or go for contrasting stitching to create a bold, standout effect. Your SA will be happy to assist you in making the right choice based on the leather and overall look you desire.
Using the iPad during your Special Order appointment allows you to see a true-to-life rendering of how your bag will look once all elements have been chosen. It’s an invaluable tool to help you visualize your creation before making your final selections.
photo courtesy The Red App
Step Seven: Choosing the Hardware
photo courtesy The Red App
There are six hardware options available for Special Order bags. All hardware finishes are offered across the board, with one exception – Mini Kellys are not eligible for brushed gold or brushed palladium hardware.
While permabrass hardware was once exclusive to à la carte creations, that changed in 2024 when Hermès introduced it to certain regular offer bags. For example, it was notably seen on Gris Misty Kelly Sellier bags over the past year.
The available hardware options for Special Orders are:
- Gold
- Brushed Gold
- Palladium
- Brushed Palladium
- Rose Gold
- Permabrass
photo courtesy The Red App
Step Eight: Choosing the Length of a Kelly Shoulder Strap
All Kelly à la carte bags that come with a shoulder strap can be customized with your choice of strap length. Hermès offers four different lengths, allowing you to tailor the fit and styling to your personal preference – whether you prefer a classic shoulder carry or a more casual crossbody look.
The available strap lengths are:
- 70 cm
- 85 cm
- 105 cm
- 120 cm
photo courtesy The Red App
Step Nine: Embossing
photo courtesy The Red App
All Hermès bags, including à la carte bags, can be embossed with a symbol and/or initials. This can be done during the bag’s creation by the artisan or later by the After Care department once the bag has arrived at the boutique.
Embossing can be done on various parts of the bag – the outside or inside flap, the sangles, the clochette, the strap or any other area you prefer.
Popular symbols include the shooting star, heart, horse, or fancy H. Embossing adds an additional personalized touch, making your bag even more unique.
photo courtesy The Red App
Final Thoughts
photo courtesy @petitie_favorite
While the 2025 Hermès Special Order color palette may initially seem limited, there are countless ways to make your bag truly one-of-a-kind. Thoughtful choices in layout, stitching, embossing, and even hardware can transform your design into a unique expression of style. Whether you opt for a bold bi-color combination, a sleek monochrome look, or subtle Verso contrast, your bespoke Hermès creation will be a cherished piece for years to come.
photo courtesy @mrs_pink_hermes
Enjoy the process, trust your instincts, and most importantly – have fun designing your dream bag!
Read related articles:
An Insider’s Guide to Hermès Leathers
Hermès Introduces 6 New Handbags for Fall-Winter 2025
Hermès Reveal: A Special Birkin Makes its Way to the City of Big Shoulders
Guide to Hermès Special Orders in 2024
Dear PurseBop: All Your Hermès Special Order Questions Answered – Part 1
Dear PurseBop: More of Your Special Order Questions Answered: Part 2
Updated: March 23rd, 2025
Comments
2 Responses to “Step-By-Step Guide to Hermès Special Orders in 2025”
Hello! I saw a photo of the 2025 colorama that included fauvre Barenia (not Barenia Faubourg) as a heritage leather option – do you have any further information to confirm this and for which bag styles it is available?
I’m sorry, I was mistaken. The photo I saw did include Barenia Faubourg, not classic Barenia.