Hermès Kelly Danse (Original) Bleu Brighton Shiny Niloticus Crocodile Palladium Hardware

Hermès Kelly Danse (Original) Bleu Brighton Shiny Niloticus Crocodile Palladium Hardware

The Hermès Kelly Danse is one of Jean-Paul Gaultier's most successful reinterpretations of the Kelly silhouette. Released originally in the mid-2000s, this design removes the rigid top handle of the classic Kelly, transforming the bag into a streamlined, multi-functional pochette. This rare Stamp K (2007) example is crafted from **Shiny Niloticus Crocodile** (*Crocodylus niloticus*) in **Bleu Brighton**—a vivid, electric blue that captures the exuberance of the Gaultier era.

The genius of the Kelly Danse lies in its strap system. It features an exceptionally long, adjustable strap that threads through the rear hardware, allowing the bag to be worn in four distinct ways: as a **belt bag** (its original runway purpose), a **shoulder bag**, a **backpack**, or—with the strap removed—as a sophisticated **evening clutch**. The "Lisse" (shiny) finish of the exotic skin elevates this casual shape into a formal statement piece, accented by cool **Palladium Hardware**.

• Condition: 1 – Pristine (Plastic on Hardware)
• Stamp: 2007, Square K
• Model: Kelly Danse (First Generation)
• Color: Bleu Brighton
• Material: Shiny Niloticus Crocodile
• Hardware: Palladium
• Dimensions: 22 × 17 × 7 cm | 8.5" W x 6.5" H x 2.5" D

JaneFinds Collector’s Insight:
While the Kelly Danse was re-issued in 2019 (as the Kelly Danse II), original Gaultier-era examples in exotic skins are exceedingly rare. The "First Generation" Danse is prized for its specific proportions and the historical context of its release. Finding one in Niloticus Crocodile—specifically in a "Pop" color like Bleu Brighton—in pristine, unused condition is a significant discovery for the archival collector.

JaneFinds Market Insight:
The Kelly Danse has seen a massive resurgence in value following its re-release, which validated the design's timelessness. However, exotic versions are produced in vanishingly small numbers compared to Swift or Evercolor leathers. An exotic Danse operates in a sweet spot of the market: it is more casual and wearable than a Kelly Cut, but far rarer than a Mini Kelly.

👜 JaneFinds Condition Guide
📅 Hermès Date Stamp Reference
⛓️ Accessory Chains
📐 Hermès Size Guide