Snob Essentials

Hermes Toolbox Bag

red_hermes_toolox.jpg

So Bag Snobs, what do we think? Do we love or hate this new fall Hermes bag? It’s called the Toolbox and it’s quite obvious why: at 20 centimeters, it’s not wide enough to be a doctor’s bag, and I’m sure someone somewhere in Paris frowned at the idea of calling it a Happy Meal (Hermes calls it a “real treasure chest”). So voila! Toolbox it is! Though there are definitely no masculine qualities to this bag (naysayers may point out the “extra” hardware), it’s certainly utilitarian with its double handles, long shoulder strap and roomy interior.

Crafted from what Hermes calls “Swift” calfskin, I think it’s an awkward shape and will only attract that eccentric Hermes client. I do like the classic Hermès closure coupled with the iconic lock-and-key; I don’t like the metal rings connecting the leather straps to their base. It makes it look cheap. But for those who want their Toolbox, it’ll be available in two sizes and in three fabrications: Swift calfskin, Evergrain calfskin or ultra-soft Niloticus crocodile. The 25cm mini Kelly is priced similarly and, in my opinion, a better option (you’re also guaranteed the bag, once vintage, will increase in value).

Hermes Toolbox bag about $6,000 to $7,000, available at Hermes boutiques (800-441-4488)

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DO YOU LOVE IT OR HATE IT?

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17 comments

  1. i agree. although the bag isnt the greatest…. but bags usually grow on my over time. its cute. i’m not sure i like the handles.

  2. I love the color. If it had been in black or brown, I would have to pass. It’s a beautiful bag, but I’m not sure about the crossbody strap, but it’s removable.

  3. I do like the bag, agree that it looks much better with just the handles. The shoulder strap looks strange, somehow not fitting with the bag. Purple would be my preferred color, though. Looks nice in pink, but just not my color.

  4. I do like the bag, agree that it looks much better with just the handles. The shoulder strap looks strange, somehow not fitting with the bag. Purple would be my preferred color, though. Looks nice in pink, but just not my color.

  5. I guess you can count me in as an Hermes eccentric – I think it’s cute. Hard to see the proportions in the picture, I’d have to see it live. Too expensive for me to buy new, but I still like it.

  6. Love this bag with its strap indeed!

    It adds a little twist to the look of the bag! Now it’s not a simple doctor bag, nor a messenger bag you’re used to see with a strap!

    Congrats to their team in Paris! They definitely have a gift to make their brand live without betraying their spirit!

    It’s gonna be a beautiful new volume in the closets of those of us who are “replete” with the iconic Birkin or Kelly!

    And the allusion to the latters’ traditional hardware is cute! Great idea indeed!

    As for the strap, I think we need to see someone wearing it; it should be an interesting new way of matching this cute and practical volume with the allure you’re gonna get when wearing it!

    I am just still pondering whether choosing Swift or Evergrain… What do you think?

  7. Hahah Happy Meal…it really does look like one. I’m not a fan, I prefer the Birkin. Not sure this will retain value like some of their other bags.