Which Size Hermès Constance is Better? 18 vs 24

The first time I laid my hands on a Hermes bag was when I bought a Constance. It was such a memorable moment that I can still recall it vividly. I was lounging at home when I got a call from a lady who calmly informed me that the bag I had been coveting was finally in stock. I asked her to send me some pictures, and within minutes, I had already made the payment. The Constance 18 in Epsom Leather Rouge Grenat was so versatile that I wore it with almost everything. It was love at first sight, and it marked the beginning of my fascination with Hermes bags.

Since then, I have added more Constance bags to my collection. More precisely two other Constance 18s and two Constance 24s, which have been updated with a modern touch. However, before we delve into that, let’s take a trip down memory lane to 1959.

That year, Hermès launched the Constance bag, which quickly became a beloved classic. The Maison has since revamped the bag’s design to cater to contemporary tastes, while still retaining its timeless appeal. The Constance is part of the “Big Three” handbags of Hermès(but is not a quota bag), alongside the Kelly and Birkin bags. The bag’s signature “H” clasp is a testament to the Maison’s craftsmanship, and it secures the top flap beautifully. Catherine Chaillet, the designer behind the bag, named it after her daughter, Constance, and it has since caught the attention of fashion enthusiasts worldwide, including former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.

Each Constance bag is crafted with precision and care by skilled Hermès artisans. It takes between 14 to 18 hours to create a single bag, making each piece a work of art.

This article will delve into the differences between Constance 18 and Constance 24, exploring whether there’s more to their respective sizes than meets the eye. Before we dive in, it’s important to note that I stand at 174cm tall, which is an important factor to consider as the length of the strap and size of the bag can appear differently on individuals of varying heights. The numbers 18 and 24 represent the length of the bag’s base in centimeters, as is the norm with all Hermès bags. Having owned both sizes, I’d like to share my experience.

Capacity-wise, the C24 reigns supreme for me. It easily fits all my daily essentials without requiring me to downsize my belongings. Conversely, the C18 is not very spacious, so unless you prefer carrying only a few items or are willing to significantly reduce your load, this size may not be your best bet.

When it comes to convenience, both sizes are winners. Their adjustable shoulder straps and hands-free options make them perfect for running errands, typing emails, or simply taking a break from hand-held totes which sometimes can get a bit tiring (only rarely though lets not forget I would never get tired of my Birkins).

The Constance bag is a timeless classic that exudes sophistication and elegance. Both the C18 and C24 sizes are highly coveted for their chicness factor, elevating any outfit from casual to formal. However, when carried crossbody, the C18 may have a slight advantage over the bulkier C24. I loved carrying my C18 crossbody, something I never do with my C24.

In terms of cost, the C18 is a more affordable option compared to the C24, which is priced similarly to the Kelly 28 or Birkin 25. Many Hermes lovers may opt to invest in the more popular Birkin or Kelly instead of splurging on the C24.

While different sizes cater to different needs and preferences, the recent revamp of the C24 has brought back its iconic shape and added a practical mirror. As a fan of the Constance bag, I am eagerly anticipating my next purchase and would love to hear which size is your favourite.