Despite being lesser known in the Hermès line-up than the Birkin and Kelly bags, the Constance bag has a legion of fans who covet its versatile design, convenient crossbody strap, and range of colours and finishes.
First launched in the 1960s, the Constance bag was released between the Kelly and Birkin collections and marks a move towards more convenient bags that can be used out and about. It was created by in-house Hermès designer Catherine Chaillet, who named the bag after her fifth-born child, whom she also named Constance.
But while the longer strap and the large H clasp on the front of the bag are hallmark traits throughout the Constance range, the colour of the bag and its material finish vary between releases and collections.
Exploring the Most Popular Colours From the Constance Range
As has become standard across the Hermès collection, the Constance bag is available in a diverse range of colours—influenced by market trends, demand, and, of course, collaborations and designers who introduce unique materials and colours.
The Crocodile Constance is an example of a bag that combines a unique skin and texture with a plethora of colours. This particular finish joins a roster of alternative Hermès bags that are made from crocodile and alligator skins, commanding a specific place on the market.
Other commonly used materials include the standard box leather, which creates a stiffer and more rigid structure, and the Epsom leather, which is softer but considerably more durable.
All of these fabrics and finishes lend themselves to different colour palettes and compliment different hardware looks, from palladium to gold.
Among the most popular Constance colours to have been released by Hermès, it’s interesting to note the spread of both neutral tones and much brighter and bolder colours. Blues, reds, and yellows are all joined on the market by camel, beige, blacks, and greys – with many resellers stating that neutrals sell better on the secondary market, owing to their versatility and diversity.
As has become the norm across the Hermès range, the brand’s orange shade commands its status and is one of the most in-demand offerings on the market. And we mustn’t overlook the role that limited edition designs play, bringing fusions of colour and unique patterns to the material structures.
Why the Constance Bag is So Coveted
One of the things that elevates the release and demand of every Hermès bag is the vast disparity between supply and demand. While the demand for authentic Hermès bags is vast, the supply is incredibly limited, thereby pushing countless buyers over to the second-hand and preloved marketplace to buy resold goods.
Celebrity endorsement is another angle that Hermès plays heavily in across all its bag ranges. The convenience and versatility of the Constance range mean that it has been pictured in the arms of countless celebrities, day and night.
Jackie Kennedy famously loved the Constance bag, which has recently been pictured over the shoulder of model Emily Ratajkowski.
But what is it about the bag itself that makes it so popular?
In comparison and contrast with the Birkin and Kelly designs, the Constance is much simpler. Slung over the shoulder of the wearer, it adds a splash of elegance to any look, with the compact body of the bag enhanced by the large H-shaped metallic clasp. Because the Constance is arguably the most practical of Hermès’ three staple designs, it has picked up a great deal of market demand with its sleek and subtle finish.
Buying a Constance Bag
Choosing the Right Colour and Material
With all that in mind, which Constance bag should you add to your must-buy list? The diversity of available colours means that buyers can opt for their preferred shades and tones, matching their Constance bag with other accessories in their wardrobe. The Constance bag may be smaller in size, but its long strap and crossbody design make it a versatile addition to your look – suitable for use through day and night, with the large ‘H’ clasp adding a touch of elegance to all Constance bags.
Where to Find Your Perfect Constance
To find your perfect Constance, the best advice we can share is to:
- Visit your local boutique reseller to browse their in-house collection.
- Explore online luxury resale platforms for rare and discontinued colours.
- Understand the material and colour variations before making a purchase.
This is the best way to discover new colours, experience the different textures, and really understand what makes the Constance bag so popular.
