Hermès Birkin 35cm Turquoise Ghillies Tadelakt/Togo PHW

Hermès Style & Size

The Birkin 35 is the original and most classic size of the iconic Birkin bag - celebrated for its blend of luxury, function, and timeless design. Introduced in the 1980s for actress and style icon Jane Birkin, the 35cm version was created to be roomy enough for everyday essentials, making it the ultimate chic carryall for modern life. For practical work or travel bag, it will carry a laptop and almost everything else although it gets heavy when full and is too large for an evening bag. For those who are able to use it casually, it makes a brilliant gym bag or baby bag.

Hermès Construction

Created by Hermès jeweller Pierre Hardy in 2011, the Ghillies style is based on a traditional style of shoe from Scotland called the “ghillie brogue,” whose perforations allow the leather to dry out after the shoe has been worn outdoors. Hardy added the curved perforated trims to both Birkins and Kellies, either in the same colour as the body of the bag, or in a contrasting colour. The Ghillies detailing was available on limited edition bags only and went out of production in around 2015.

Hermès Material

A smooth leather with no visible grain which gives it an almost polished, glossy appearance. It has a higher shine than many Hermès leathers but this does mean it is more prone to scratches and marks.

One of Hermès’ most recognisable leathers, Togo is a supple, pebbled leather and features a distinctive vertical grain that is slightly raised to the touch. Although lightweight it holds its shape well and has the advantage of being resistant to scratches and can even withstand a little light rain.

Hardware

Hermès Palladium hardware is made of solid brass, giving weight and durability, and then plated in precious metal. Palladium belongs to the platinum group of metals and has a brighter and whiter look than silver. More precious than gold, palladium is hard wearing and scratch-resistant.