01Hermès 1984
Birkin
Two handles, a generous body, and a flap secured by straps. A practical idea that became a collecting universe of its own.
Explore the guideSugar Field Guide / Bags
It’s all in
the details.
The shapes you recognize.
The distinctions worth knowing.
Six bag families, starting with the Hermès Birkin and Kelly. A closer look at their history, proportions, materials, and construction.
Explore the bagsShape. Stitch. Material.
A vocabulary for looking closer.
The collection
Six places to begin.
Choose a silhouette.
Get to know its particulars.
01
02Hermès 1930s
Kelly
One handle, a trapezoid body, and a precise strap closure. The first distinction to learn is Sellier versus Retourne.
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03Hermès 1967
Constance
A compact shoulder bag built around an H clasp and a sliding strap. The third perspective in the Hermès trio.
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04Chanel House classic
Classic 11.12
Quilting, chain, and an interlocking CC closure. A useful starting point for understanding Chanel’s classic handbag vocabulary.
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05Dior 1990s
Lady Dior
A sculpted top-handle silhouette, Cannage stitching, and letter charms. Recognizable through texture as much as shape.
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06Louis Vuitton 2013
Capucines
A single handle, leather-wrapped initials, and a flap worn two ways. A modern addition to a guide of established forms.
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Start here
Birkin or Kelly?
Look at the construction.
Two handles or one is only the beginning. Size, leather, and edge construction change how a bag looks and carries. Our first two guides explain the distinctions and keep the references close.