Are you dreaming of strolling around town with a luxurious Hermès bag in your hand? Well, now you can make that dream a reality with the Hermès Garden Party – the ultimate tote from Hermès. Launched in 1964, the Garden Party has become one of the most sought-after handbags from Hermès, aside from their iconic Birkin, Kelly, and Constance styles. Praised for its exquisite craftsmanship, understated elegance, and relatively affordable price range, the Garden Party is a top choice among first-time Hermès buyers and those who desire a practical everyday handbag. So, let’s dive into the details of this stylish tote.
The Chic Design of the Hermes Garden Party Tote
One of the key features that make the Hermès Garden Party tote so appealing is its simplicity. Unlike other designer bags, the Garden Party doesn’t flaunt obvious logos. The only way to recognize its Hermès origins is by closely examining the engraving on the Clou de Selle snap closure. This discreet branding is one of the standout elements of the Garden Party, giving it an air of sophistication. Additionally, the snap closure allows the bag to expand beyond its dimensions, accommodating larger items when necessary.
The “Clou de Selle” snap fasteners also connect the sides of the Garden Party Tote, giving it a structured appearance when closed. However, unfastening the snaps creates additional interior space, which is incredibly practical when you need to carry more.
Image Credit: Fashionphile
Let’s take a closer look at the interior of the handbag. The Hermès Garden Party features one spacious, open-style compartment. In the leather versions, you’ll even find a zippered interior pocket. While it may not boast a luxurious leather lining like other Hermès bags, the canvas-lined interior of the Garden Party offers its own advantages. It significantly reduces the weight of the bag, adding to its practicality and affordability. After all, if the Garden Party came with a leather interior, it would certainly come with a heftier price tag!
The minimalist and understated design of the Hermès Garden Party allows you to personalize it to your taste. Whether you choose to accessorize it with a Hermès bag charm or a stylish twilly scarf, even the simplest addition can completely transform its look.
Designed with functionality and practicality in mind, the Hermès Garden Party tote can be carried by hand, on the crook of your arm, or over the shoulder (for larger sizes). The only minor drawback is that it lacks protective feet on the bottom, which could help prevent wear and tear. However, this shouldn’t deter you from enjoying this exquisite bag.
Why Choose the Hermes Garden Party Tote?
Now you might be wondering, why should you invest in a Hermès Garden Party tote when there are plenty of cheaper alternatives available? While it’s a valid point, consider this: can any other brand match Hermès’ craftsmanship? Each Hermès handbag is meticulously crafted by a single artisan from start to finish, a rarity in the fashion industry. This level of dedication and attention to detail is what makes Hermès bags so highly coveted. They are made to withstand the test of time.
Image Credit: @vogueconnoisseur
Here are a few more reasons to consider the Hermès Garden Party Tote:
- It is relatively affordable compared to other Hermès handbags (see prices below).
- The bag can easily be dressed up or down, making it suitable for various occasions.
- Its expandable interior offers versatility and flexibility.
- The functional design ensures that it truly serves your everyday needs.
Ins and Outs of Hermes Garden Party Materials
The Hermès Garden Party comes in two different styles: full leather or canvas with leather trim. The most commonly used leather for the Garden Party Tote is called Negonda. Developed exclusively for the Garden Party line, Negonda leather features large grains and a matte finish. Not only does it look beautiful, but it is also durable and water-resistant, making it perfect for a tote bag.
Other leather options for the Garden Party include Epsom and Country leathers. Epsom leather, known for its pressed cross-hatch grain and semi-matte appearance, has been a popular choice for Kelly and Constance bags. It is completely scratch and water-resistant, making it one of the most durable leathers in Hermès’ lineup.
On the other hand, Country leather is a relatively new addition to Hermès’ repertoire. It is a processed female calf leather, well-known for its firmness, large grain, and durability. With its distinctive qualities, Country leather adds a unique touch to the Garden Party.
The canvas styles of the Hermès Garden Party feature a canvas body with contrasting leather handles and trimming. Hermès offers three different types of canvas for the Garden Party: officier, military, and twill. Whether you choose canvas or leather, the interior of the Garden Party tote comes with canvas lining.
Hermes Garden Party Tote Sizes
In addition to the different styles, the Hermès Garden Party tote is available in three sizes. Each size caters to different needs and occasions.
The smallest size, the Garden Party 30 (also known as Small), is perfect for your everyday essentials. It measures 30cm in length, 21cm in height, and 13cm in depth (11.8″ x 8.3″ x 5.1″) and can comfortably accommodate your smartphone, card case, agenda, sunglasses, and a small makeup bag.
The Garden Party 36 (also known as Medium) is ideal for running errands, work, or travel. With dimensions of 36cm in length, 26cm in height, and 17cm in depth (14.2″ x 10.2″ x 6.7″), it provides ample space for a laptop and other everyday essentials.
The Garden Party 49 (also known as Large) is designed for heavy-duty usage. Measuring 49cm in length, 36cm in height, and with a depth of 25cm (19.3″ x 14.2″ x 10″), it is most suitable for travel, serving as a stylish weekender bag.
Please note that Hermès used to produce other sizes of the Garden Party tote that are no longer available. However, there is always a possibility that Hermès may reintroduce these sizes in the future.
Image Credit: Fashionphile
Hermes Garden Party Tote Prices as of 2021
Are you considering adding the Hermès Garden Party bag to your collection? Here’s a breakdown of the latest prices:
Please note that these prices are for reference purposes only and may vary in boutiques. Furthermore, the price of the Hermès Garden Party varies depending on the material used. Canvas bags are generally more affordable, while full leather versions are significantly more expensive. For example, the Garden Party 30 in Negonda calfskin retails for $3,550 in the U.S., while the canvas version (twill h canvas with Negonda leather trim) is priced at $2,200. The price difference between the two is quite substantial at $1,350. Similarly, the price gap between the canvas and leather Garden Party 36 bags is over $1,000. The canvas version retails for $2,450, whereas the leather version will cost you $3,750. Lastly, the Garden Party 49 Voyage bag has a retail price of $4,375.
Final Thoughts on Hermes Garden Party
With a starting price of just over $2,000, the Hermès Garden Party is an excellent entry-level Hermès handbag. As a timeless tote bag, it is guaranteed to be a versatile companion for years to come. Even the leather versions of the Garden Party tote are reasonably priced, especially when compared to other Hermès styles. For instance, the Garden Party 36 offers a similar size to the Birkin 35 but at a fraction of the cost. In fact, the Negonda Calfskin Garden Party 36 is only a third of the price of a Birkin 35 in togo leather ($12,200). So, you get the same iconic Hermès craftsmanship without breaking the bank.
Please keep in mind that the prices mentioned in this article are for informational purposes only, and actual prices may vary in boutiques.
Now that you know all about the Hermès Garden Party tote, you can make an informed decision and add this chic and practical bag to your collection. Enjoy shopping and embrace the luxury of Hermès!
