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Is This the Most Underrated Hermès Bag?
When it comes to luxury handbags, Hermès is synonymous with icons like the Birkin and Kelly. These bags command waitlists, sky-high resale values, and endless media attention. But in the shadow of these superstars lies a world of lesser-known treasures—bags that offer the same impeccable craftsmanship, timeless design, and exclusivity without the hype. Today, we’re diving into one such gem: the Hermès Plume. Is it the most underrated bag in the Hermès lineup? Let’s explore its history, features, and why it deserves more spotlight.
A Brief History of the Plume
The Plume bag traces its roots back to the 1960s, inspired by Hermès’ heritage in luggage design. Its name, derived from the French word for “feather,” hints at its lightweight nature—a stark contrast to the more structured and heavy-duty feel of some other Hermès pieces. Over the decades, it has evolved, appearing in various sizes, leathers, and even limited-edition forms. Recently, it made a comeback on the runways, featured in the Women’s Spring Summer 2024 and Men’s Winter 2024 shows, signaling a potential resurgence in popularity.
Crafting a Plume is no small feat; it reportedly takes about two and a half weeks to make, making it one of the most labor-intensive bags in the Hermès collection. From classic calfskin to exotic materials like crocodile or Himalaya, the Plume has been reimagined in countless ways, including innovative techniques such as Waffle Box Calf or suede finishes.
All about the Haut a Courroies Bag Collection | Hermès Mainland China
What Makes the Plume Stand Out?
At first glance, the Plume exudes understated elegance. Its structured rectangular silhouette, paired with two rigid rolled-top handles, gives it a clean, minimalist look. There’s no flashy hardware or overt branding—just subtle details like diamond-shaped zipper pulls that match the handle attachments and four discreet feet on the base for protection.
The bag’s feather-light weight is a game-changer, especially for those who prioritize practicality without sacrificing luxury. The long zipper fastening extends to the sides, allowing the bag to open wide for easy access and packing—perfect for everyday use or travel. Despite its structured appearance, it has a soft, supple feel, available in luxurious leathers like Epsom, Chèvre, Swift, Box, and Chamonix, as well as fabrics such as Suede and Toile.
Sizes range from the compact Mini Plume (7.9 x 5.9 x 3.1 inches) ideal for essentials, to larger options like the Fourre-tout 45 (17.7 x 11.8 x 8.6 inches) suited for travel. Special editions, such as the Plume Tote Bag 45 Pegasus Chimeras in Togo calfskin with tufting, embroidery, and palladium-plated details, retail for around €21,900 and add a touch of artistry.
Why Is It Underrated?
In a world obsessed with the Birkin and Kelly, the Plume flies under the radar because of its subtlety. It’s the epitome of “quiet luxury”—an “if you know, you know” piece that doesn’t scream for attention. While flashier bags dominate social media and celebrity sightings, the Plume appeals to those who appreciate timeless design over trends. Its lack of prominent hardware and minimalist aesthetic make it versatile, but perhaps that’s why it’s overlooked: it doesn’t chase the spotlight.
That said, it’s not alone in the underrated category. Other Hermès bags like the Herbag, Picotin, Bolide, and Trim also deserve more love for their unique charms, from casual canvas styles to vintage-inspired shapes.
Styling the Plume: Versatility at Its Best
One of the Plume’s strengths is its adaptability. Carry it handheld for a polished look or sling it over the shoulder for hands-free convenience. Mini versions can even be converted to crossbody with a diagonal strap attachment, while larger sizes pair well with a thicker canvas strap. It complements everything from business attire to casual outfits, making it a wardrobe staple for the discerning fashionista.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of the same old Hermès hype and seeking something truly special, the Plume might just be the most underrated bag out there. With its rich history, feather-light design, and effortless elegance, it’s a testament to Hermès’ commitment to craftsmanship over clamor. Whether you’re a collector or a first-time buyer, consider adding this hidden gem to your rotation—it could be the bag that quietly steals the show. What do you think? Share your thoughts on underrated Hermès bags in the comments!