A Retrospective of the Hermes Kelly Sport
Explore the history and revival potential of the Hermès Kelly Sport, a versatile crossbody and shoulder bag produced from 1986 to 2001 in exotic leathers.

The world of Hermes is a whirlwind, constantly evolving, yet sometimes, it circles back to celebrate the classics. Among these classics is the Kelly Sport, a design that had its glory from 1986 to 2001 but had since been shelved. Now, however, it's beginning to captivate a new generation of Hermes enthusiasts.
A Glimpse Into the Past
The Hermes Kelly Sport, predating the popular So Kelly, boasts similarities with its successor, particularly in design elements. It was released in three distinct sizes, each with its unique charm: the compact PM at 20cm, the versatile MM at 24cm, and the ludicrously capacious GM at 29cm. Hermes aficionados appreciate the myriad of options provided both in terms of sizes and the choice between Sellier and Retourne constructions.
Given the variety of materials Hermes championed in the late 80's and throughout the 90's, the Kelly Sport manifested in diverse versions. Whether it's the buttery soft Gulliver, Clemence, Togo, Veau Grain Lisse, Porc, Ostrich, or luxurious Matte Nilo Crocodile, the Retourne Kelly Sports offered an option for every taste. In contrast, the Sellier Kelly Sports unveiled equally mesmerizing variants with materials like Box, Ardennes, Courchevel, Gulliver, Toile, Crinoline, Shiny Crocodile and Alligator, Lizard, and Ostrich.
The Future of Kelly Sport
The question on every collector's mind is whether Hermes will breathe new life into the Kelly Sport. Although two decades have lapsed since its production, the contemporary Hermes admirers might find its revival both invigorating and exhilarating, paying homage to a blend of timeless elegance and innovation.
With a rich history, the Kelly Sport stands as a testament to Hermes's commitment to quality, versatility, and style. Whether or not it sees a revival, its legacy remains etched in the annals of Hermes.
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