The Return of the Kelly Danse

 

By Annabelle Hunt

The Hermès Kelly Danse is a small, versatile clutch bag designed to be worn crossbody, around the waist, or as a backpack. Its recent re-release by Hermès has generated great excitement. The growing desirability of this adaptable little piece is a perfect example of strategic product marketing, something very few luxury brands are able to execute with such finesse.

Here’s what happened: Hermès originally released the Kelly Danse more than a decade ago, in limited quantities, at a time when its compact size and casual style were not especially in vogue. Just as people began to appreciate its potential, the bag was quietly discontinued. That scarcity sparked a cult following, quietly boosting the brand’s prestige.

Fast forward to autumn 2019. With the fashion world embracing small, hands-free bags, Hermès reintroduced the Kelly Danse. The move was met with instant demand, and Hermès maintained its reputation for timeless design, insisting this was not a trend-driven release. The result was a coveted piece with an already enthusiastic audience. Even better, the Kelly Danse has drawn in a younger customer who follows seasonal trends, marking a fresh chapter in Hermès’ typically conservative retail space.

Welcome back, Kelly Danse.

 

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Spotlight: The Gris Perle Hermès Kelly Danse

We’ve just received the gorgeous Gris Perle version of the Kelly Danse. It’s a wonderful example of how neutral tones are making a comeback this season.

 

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The History of the Kelly Danse

The original Kelly Danse debuted in 2007 in soft Swift leather and was discontinued in 2013. It was essentially a relaxed version of the Kelly Pochette, featuring softer leather, no top handle, and a long strap. It never reached the iconic status of the Pochette and was aimed at a younger, more casual clientele.

We love the name. It may be the only Hermès bag whose name suggests a practical function. After all, what other high-fashion handbag can you dance in?

 

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Our Experience at Lilac Blue

Between 2009 and 2012, we sold just a few Kelly Danse bags. They were a bit too casual for the typical Hermès buyer at the time. The Kelly Pochette and Kelly Cut were far more popular, especially among the Hermès cognoscenti.

Ironically, interest picked up just after Hermès stopped making the bag. Our Kuwaiti clients—many of whom were among the first serious Hermès collectors—began asking for the Danse. Their daughters loved the crossbody style and appreciated its chic practicality.

In 2014, we had a rare Blue Jean Kelly Danse. Unfortunately, it was stolen during a break-in that also involved four other Kelly and Birkin bags. Although we tracked most of them down across London, the Kelly Danse had already been sold within a day.

 

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Kelly Danse II: A Modern Reboot

The second generation Kelly Danse was released in July 2019 with the same 17 x 22 x 7 cm dimensions. However, it now features a longer, adjustable strap that allows it to be worn as a backpack or waist bag. The original Swift leather has largely been replaced with the more durable Evercolor, which holds up better over time.

So far, we’ve only seen the new versions in elegant neutral shades like Gris Perle and Etoupe. After several years of bold and bright colour palettes, these understated tones feel refreshingly classic.

Retail price in Europe is around €4,900 and approximately $7,000 in the US, if you’re lucky enough to be offered one. On the resale market, the price is currently around £12,000 in the UK, though this may vary with availability and demand.

At Lilac Blue London, we currently have pre-loved Kelly Danse bags from 2008 to 2012 in excellent condition in Black, Rose Dragee, and Jaune d’Or. New arrivals are coming in now.

 

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Editorial Perspective

Was the Kelly Danse and its revival really part of a 12-year product strategy? Did Hermès truly anticipate that the tiny bag trend would explode in 2018?

Almost certainly not. The original launch in 2008 was arguably mistimed. Yet Hermès has remained at the top of the luxury handbag market during a decade of tremendous growth, investment, and global demand. That a discontinued design from 2008 is now one of the most desirable bags in the market is perhaps more good fortune than long-term planning. But Hermès has made the most of it, better than any other luxury brand.

The past six months, covering summer and autumn 2019, have brought a new frenzy to the handbag world. The last time we saw this level of excitement and resale inflation was in 2012. The catalyst? The Mini Kelly II. Today, requests for this tiny 20cm bag pour in from around the world. Prices are now double the retail cost, with Black Mini Kellys reaching £14,000. (Be cautious of sellers offering them for less than £11,000, feel free to contact us for guidance.)

The timing is remarkable. Just as Mini Kelly production slows, the Kelly Danse appears. Is this intentional? Maybe not. But it is undeniably well-played.

 

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Looking Ahead

If you love the Kelly Danse and the Mini Kelly, you may want to consider one of the original Mini Kellys. 

And if you want to stand out with a rare piece, consider our vintage Hermès yellow Lizard Mini Kelly from 1986. Though delicate and worn, it is a true collector’s item and expected to appreciate significantly in value.

Special thanks to PurseBlog for their consistently outstanding research and reporting.