Hermès price increases rarely arrive with much noise, but they are closely followed by collectors, buyers and anyone watching the luxury resale market.
In 2026, prices have continued to rise across some of the house’s most sought-after leather goods, including the Birkin and Kelly. For buyers, this adds another layer to an already complex market: Hermès bags are not only becoming more expensive, they are also among the hardest luxury bags to buy directly from a boutique.
The Birkin 25 Shows the Bigger Picture
A useful example is the Hermès Birkin 25. In 2016, the retail price in the U.S. was around 9,400 USD. By 2026, it had reached approximately 13,500 USD.
That means the price has increased by more than 40% over ten years.
The change has not happened all at once. For several years, prices moved more slowly. But in recent years, especially from 2024 onwards, the increases have become more noticeable. For a classic model like the Birkin 25, this reinforces its position as one of the most watched bags in the luxury market.
Why Hermès Stands Apart
Hermès is different from many other luxury brands because demand is only one part of the story. Availability is just as important.
A Birkin or Kelly is rarely something a client can simply walk in and buy. Production is limited, craftsmanship takes time, and the most desirable models are often offered through established boutique relationships.
This controlled availability is central to the Hermès appeal. The bags are valued not only for their design and quality, but also for their rarity.
Why Pre-Owned Hermès Is Becoming More Relevant
As boutique prices rise, the pre-owned market becomes an increasingly important option for buyers.
It offers something the boutique experience often cannot: more visibility. Buyers can compare size, leather, colour, hardware, condition, year and accessory set before making a decision. It can also give access to models that are difficult to source directly from Hermès, including rare colours, discontinued leathers, special orders and vintage pieces.
For many buyers, pre-owned Hermès is not only about price. It is about access, choice and the possibility of finding the exact piece they are looking for.
What Buyers Should Keep in Mind
Hermès price increases are not just higher numbers on a retail price list. They reflect a market where demand remains strong, supply is controlled and the most iconic models continue to attract global attention.
For anyone considering a Birkin, Kelly, Mini Kelly or Constance, waiting can mean facing both higher prices and limited availability. At the same time, the pre-owned market offers a more open way to explore Hermès, with a wider selection of models, colours and conditions.
Explore our curated selection of authentic pre-loved Hermès bags, or contact our team through our pre-order service if you are looking for a specific model, size, leather or colour.
