Togo, Chevre, Clemence, Epsom, Swift - all these signature Hermès leathers look too familiar to your eye, and you feel like you have completed your collection of classic Hermès handbags? Now, it is time to move on to the highest of the Hermès leather goods league then. Let's guide you into the exotic leather world of Hermès, where the craftsmanship and exclusivity are at their peak.
What Is Exotic Leather?
The term "exotic leather" is quite blurry and scatters anywhere from frog and chicken skin to elephant and snakeskin. Basically, any skin that is not cowhide can be categorized as exotic leather, and we would be lying if we said that we have never seen a purse made out of a frog. However, when it comes to the French leather goods house Hermès, the term "exotic skin" comes to have a much clearer definition, which, we must admit, brings us much more satisfaction. When Hermès brings out exotic skin, we talk about the highest caliber leather, like crocodile, alligator, ostrich, and lizard skins.
What are the different types of exotic leathers used by Hermès?
Hermès utilizes a variety of exotic leathers in their products, including alligator, crocodile, ostrich, and buffalo. Each type of leather brings its own unique qualities and textures, contributing to the brand's commitment to quality and luxury.
These bags are frequently challenging to obtain directly from the Hermès boutique, with no assurance that you will receive the precise model or color you desire. Luxury resellers provide quick access to a carefully chosen assortment of authentic premium bags, including vintage or discontinued models that even the Hermès house might no longer carry. Since reputable resellers are highly knowledgeable specialists in luxury, you can avoid the stress of playing roulette by attempting to shop from the Hermès store. You can purchase your bags from luxury resellers, knowing they offer a curation of authentic, most sought-after Hermès bags in fantastic condition. Pre-loved bags are also more environmentally friendly because they reduce the need for fresh manufacture while giving these upscale goods a second chance at life.
Crocodile leather: The majesty
In the market, there are three different types of Crocodile leather: the Niloticus, which you most likely know from the renowned queen Birkin Crocodile Himalaya; the Porosus, which is the most expensive; and the Moreletii, used very rarely.
Why are the crocodile leather bags so desirable and valuable? Crafting crocodile leather, the most esteemed of Hermès exotic leathers, is extremely difficult and requires impeccable professionality. Unless you are a VIP, you won’t be able to put your hands on any of them in the Hermès boutique. While it might be easier to obtain smaller accessory items in crocodile skin, such as Hermès pocket books, a bag is reserved for the most precious of high-caliber clientele.
These bags come in different sizes, such as 25, 30, 35, and 40, with prices ranging from $ 25,000 to over $ 300,000.
You may wonder who is lucky to carry such a bag. Victoria Beckham, of course, Jennifer Lopez, Irina Shayk, Kris Jenner, and many more.
Alligator leather: The exotic twin
Similar to crocodile leather but less expensive. The alligator skin is really delicate, and it usually comes in smaller bags, 20 and 25 cm. An example that cannot be left unmentioned is the Birkin 20 Faubourg. While this dream handbag has all Hermès signature accessories, such as clochette, lock, and key, the attention is focused on the unique exterior design. Imitating the Hermes flagship store in Paris, this treasure bag comes with miniature windows and tiny awnings, which can hardly leave anyone impartial.
You do not want to go unnoticed during the day? - A matte alligator Hermes Birkin with gold hardware is just what you need. (Note: Avoid hand lotions, sanitizers, and spray tens to protect your Birkin handles. Alligator skin in neutral tones stains easily, and the handle usually shows the first signs of wear. Carefully maintaining the interior of the handbag for the sake of investment value, Birkin owners often forget that as little as skin oils can make the handle change in color.)
Feeling more glamorous, bold, and glossy during the night? - Don’t forget to grab your shiny version of the alligator Birkin. Whether gold, palladium, or rose gold, matching your jewelry to the color of your Birkin's hardware is next-level chic.
The price range is 18.000$ - 180.000 $.
Lizard leather: A tiny treasure
Perfect for smaller bags. If you want to invest in a lizard bag, you should consider choosing the Ombré Birkin 25 with palladium hardware and tonal stitching. This bag is not only widely famous but is highly valuable on the resale market, once reaching 120.000$ in resale.
Spotting an Hermès Kelly in lizard is also quite a rare luck. The lizard skin compliments the minimalistic design of the bag, with its tonal stitching perfectly blending around the flap and its turnlock clusure.
Prepare yourself to be amazed by the play of colors and different shades as the ombrè pattern smoothly transitions from the handbag's handle and flap to its center.
Ostrich leather: Never-ending elegance
It has a fascinating texture that is both subtle and elegant due to its distinctive quill follicular pattern; the ostrich skin gives chic ‘polka dots’ vibes. This exotic leather is highly desirable due to its impressive durability: if treated with care, the ostrich skin can last for decades. This practical characteristic makes ostrich an ideal choice for everyday bags, such as Constance. Thanks to its practical shoulder strap, Constance is beloved by many fashion enthusiasts with a more casual chic appeal. However, when an extra pinch of luxe is needed, the ostrich skin elevates an already beloved Constance.
Ostrich skin has the same effect on Hermès Kelly, turning this elegant yet quite conservative model with a shoulder strap into a glamorous and so-ever fun handbag.
As for those who are less concerned with practicality and additional accessories, such as a shoulder strap, ostrich Birkin is the extravagant bag you didn't know you needed. It comes in various sizes (25, 30, 35) and colors; one of our favorites is the ostrich Birkin 25 in Fuchsia, carried by a nostalgic superstar, Lindsay Lohan: a bag that screams femininity and glamor.
Exotic bags: A lifetime investment
Investing in an Hermès exotic bag can be the result of a sophisticated and highly niche personal style, but it’s not only that. This investment can also be defined as a strategic and savvy financial move. Let us explain why:
● High desirability due to its exclusivity and rarity
● Never goes out of style
● Endless durability and excellent quality
● High resale value
These are just some of the main reasons you should consider investing in the exotic leather Hermès bags. However, such highly valuable items come with the sort of formalities that a Chevre Birkin owner might have not yet had to deal with:
Shipping or traveling with an exotic skin handbag, check if the country you are traveling to requires a CITES - a cerfticate that confirms that your handbag is legal. While not all countries require this certificate, not having one when asked at border control can bring severe troubles. Think of it as some sort of passport for your exotic handbag.
Remember that you need this certificate regardless of the size of your item. Whether it is your alligator Constance or a small Hermès pocketbook, if it is made out of exotic skin - it needs CITIES.
Styling Tips: How to Style and When to Wear an Exotic Leather Bag
Running errands in the city: a large bag where you can fit all of your stuff would be ideal. Opt for a Birkin 35 or 40 in a matte finish. For a laid-back, effortless, and contrasting look, pair your statement handbag with a comfortable sort of tomboy outfit:
A tracksuit
Hoodie and jeans
Sneakers (Bottega Veneta Orbits or casual Sambas/colorful Gazelles)
Boots during the winter (Uggs in dark colors)
Partners' Meeting: Formal meetings require a sophisticated tenue; pair your exotic Hermès bag with a well-tailored suit. A black suit would create a complimenting contrast for leather in lighter tones, while a grey oversized suit is a match made in heaven for a black Birkin or Kelly.
Edgy Chic: perfect for a bold night out look.
Short black dress
Black heels.
An oversized black leather jacket
Here comes that "glam meets masculinity" vibe. Et voila!
Chic day à la plage: White short dress or co-ord top and shorts set. Match the outfit with a pink ostrich Birkin 25 and Hermès Oran sandals in pink ostrich. Add gold jewelry, a vintage Valhambra Van Cleef bracelet, and a Panthère Cartier watch for the perfect It Girl finish.
Gentle Touch: A leather bag made of lizard is ideal for more formal events. For a refined look, team up your lizard Hermès handbag with a chic cocktail dress or a sophisticated evening gown.
Why Should You Consider Purchasing Your Exotic Hermès Handbag From Trusted Resellers?
These bags are frequently challenging to obtain directly from the Hermès boutique, with no assurance that you will receive the precise model or color you desire. (Don't even get us started on smaller details, such as choosing between gold, palladium, or rose gold hardware, or getting a contrast or tonal stitching.) Luxury resellers provide quick access to a carefully chosen assortment of authentic premium bags, including vintage or discontinued models that even the Hermès house might no longer carry. Since reputable resellers are highly knowledgeable specialists in luxury, you can avoid the stress of playing roulette by attempting to shop from the Hermès store. You can purchase your bags from luxury resellers, knowing they offer a curation of authentic, most sought-after Hermès bags in fantastic condition. Pre-loved bags are also more environmentally friendly because they reduce the need for fresh manufacture while giving these upscale goods a second chance at life.
Note: whether buying online or in person, focus on details such as the condition of the handbag's interior, presense of all the Hermès accessories, such as clochette, keys, lock, and strap (if originally present), and pay extra attention to the bags front flap, making sure there is no visible creasing, and the condition of the hardware. These are some of the basic and most important checking points that are equally essential whether you are purchasing a classic Sellier or Retourne Birkin in Chevre or obtaining a custom alligator Constance.
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