The Hermès Constance is a structured flap bag defined by its oversized H-buckle closure and long strap, designed to be worn crossbody or on the shoulder rather than carried by hand. It comes primarily in two sizes, the Constance 18 and the Constance 24, and it suits women who want a recognisable Hermès silhouette that frees up both hands, something the Birkin and Kelly, both handheld or arm-carried by design, do not offer in the same way.
In our sourcing work, the Constance is often the bag clients ask for once they already own a Birkin or Kelly and want a second style that reads differently day to day. Clients across the GCC and Africa regularly ask us to compare it against the Kelly, since both are structured and formal, but the Constance's fixed shoulder strap and flatter profile make it the more practical choice for travel, evening events, or anyone who simply prefers not to carry a bag by handle.
What makes the Constance different from other Hermès bags?
The defining feature is the H-buckle: a large, turn-lock clasp shaped like the house's signature letter, sitting on the front flap. It is both the closure mechanism and the visual anchor of the bag, available in palladium (silver-tone), gold-tone, brushed, or lacquered finishes depending on the era and edition. Unlike the Birkin's strap-and-turnlock system or the Kelly's belted closure, the Constance opens with a simple quarter-turn of the buckle.
Structurally, the Constance is flatter and more rectangular than either bag, with a single long strap (not a top handle) that sits close to the body. It was introduced by Hermès in 1959 and named, according to house history, after the daughter of an Hermès executive. It has remained in steady, if lower-volume, production since, making it rarer in resale circulation than the Birkin or Kelly.
Constance 18 vs Constance 24: which size to choose?
The Constance 18 is the compact size, roughly 18cm wide, built for evening use or as a going-out bag that holds a phone, cards, and a lipstick. It sits closer to jewellery than to a working bag and tends to suit women who want a refined, occasion-led piece rather than daily carry.
The Constance 24 is the more versatile everyday size, wide and deep enough for a slim wallet, sunglasses case, and small pouch, while still keeping the flat, structured profile that defines the style. Hermès has also produced a Constance 26 in some seasons and leathers, which runs slightly larger again, though it appears far less often in circulation than the 18 and 24.
| Feature | Constance 18 | Constance 24 |
|---|---|---|
| Best use | Evening, occasion wear | Daily carry, travel, work |
| Capacity | Phone, cards, lipstick | Wallet, sunglasses, small pouch |
| Wrist/shoulder feel | Sits high, close to the body | Sits at hip, more relaxed drape |
| Typical buyer | Wants a compact statement piece | Wants one bag that does everything |
How is the Constance worn: shoulder or crossbody?
The strap length on a Constance is generally adjustable within a limited range, and most women wear it in one of two ways: shoulder-draped for a relaxed, off-duty look, or crossbody for travel and practicality. The flat, structured body means it does not shift or bulge against the torso the way a slouchier bag would, which is part of why it photographs so cleanly in either position.
Some seasons and special editions include the Constance Elan or Constance-to-Go variants, which alter the strap and buckle mechanism slightly, but the core silhouette (flap, buckle, long strap) remains consistent across the family.
Which leathers and colours suit the Constance best?
Because the H-buckle and flap dominate the front of the bag, leather choice changes the character of a Constance more than it does on a Birkin. Box calf, a smooth, structured leather from Hermès's archive, gives the flap a crisp, almost architectural edge and is prized on vintage Constance bags. Togo leather, grained and slightly slouchier, softens the silhouette and hides fine scratches well for daily use. Epsom, a stiffer embossed leather, holds its shape firmly and suits the 18 particularly well as an evening piece.
Exotic skins, including alligator and lizard, appear on the Constance more often than on some other Hermès styles precisely because the flat front panel showcases scale patterns clearly without the curvature of a Birkin's body. On colour, neutral tones such as Etoupe, Gold, and black remain the most requested for versatility, while seasonal shades like Bleu Nuit or Rouge Casaque tend to be sought after specifically because Hermès does not guarantee they will return in future collections.
Who does the Constance suit best?
The Constance suits women who prioritise a hands-free bag with a strong, architectural silhouette over the softer, rounder shapes of the Birkin or Evelyne. Its flat profile and fixed strap make it a natural fit for professional settings, travel days, and evenings where a handheld bag would be impractical. It also tends to appeal to clients building a considered Hermès collection who want a piece that reads distinctly from a Birkin or Kelly rather than a third variation on the same theme.
What drives the price of a Hermès Constance?
As with all Hermès leather goods, condition, leather type, hardware finish, and colour rarity are the main factors behind what a Constance commands on the resale market. A Constance 24 in Togo with palladium hardware in a neutral shade sits at a different point than an 18 in exotic alligator with gold hardware in a discontinued seasonal colour. Because the Constance moves through fewer hands than the Birkin or Kelly, well-kept examples in sought-after leathers and colours can be harder to source, which affects availability more than it affects any single fixed figure. Rather than quote a number, we would rather walk you through what a specific bag is likely to involve once we know the size, leather, hardware, and condition you are after.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Constance a good first Hermès bag?
It can be, particularly for someone who prefers a shoulder or crossbody carry over a handheld bag, though many clients come to the Constance after already owning a Birkin or Kelly.
Does the Constance come in a mini size?
Hermès has produced smaller and micro variations in certain seasons, but the 18 and 24 remain the two sizes most consistently available and most requested by our clients.
Is the H-buckle functional or just decorative?
It is fully functional: a quarter-turn releases the flap, and the buckle itself is the primary closure mechanism, not a cosmetic addition over a separate clasp.
How do I tell if a Constance's leather is Togo, Epsom, or box calf?
Togo has a pebbled, textured grain and slight give; Epsom has a finer, more uniform embossed pattern and a stiffer hand; box calf is smooth and glossy with no visible grain. If you are unsure, we can help identify the leather as part of authentication before you commit.
Why is the Constance harder to find than the Birkin?
Hermès produces it in smaller volumes each season, and because it tends to be kept longer by owners who value its practicality, fewer examples reach the resale market at any given time.
If you are deciding between the Constance 18 and 24, or want to understand how leather and colour choices affect a specific bag's rarity, our guide to Hermès leathers is a useful companion piece. For clients based in the UAE or further afield, our Hermès sourcing service in Dubai can walk you through current availability privately. Enquire with us to discuss what you are looking for and we will begin sourcing on your behalf.
