Hermès 32 vs. 42: Which size is right for you?

The Hermès Picotin 32 and 42 share the same understated bucket-bag design, but their differences in size create dramatically different uses. The Picotin 32 is a compact, lightweight handbag perfect for carrying daily essentials, while the substantially larger Picotin 42 functions more like a spacious tote, ideal for work, travel, or anyone who needs far more capacity.

Here’s everything you need to know about these two luxurious bags from Hermès to decide which size is right for your lifestyle.

Hermès Picotin 32

The Hermès Picotin 32 is a versatile handbag that embodies minimalist elegance. Its simple, unlined bucket shape is inspired by horse feed bags, offering a relaxed yet incredibly chic appeal. Perfectly sized for daily use, this bag combines Hermès’ exceptional craftsmanship with a practical, lightweight design that makes it an effortless companion for casual outings and errands.

• What it is: A compact, top-handle bucket bag known for its clean lines, lightweight feel, and understated luxury.
• Key features: Measures approximately 9" L x 7" H x 5" W, open top with a single leather strap closure and the signature Hermès lock.
• Price: Approximately $6,000 - $6,500 USD, depending on the leather and hardware.
• Materials/Construction: Typically crafted from durable and soft-grained leathers like Clemence or Togo, known for being resilient to daily wear.
• Capacity: Comfortably holds daily essentials like a large smartphone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, and a few small cosmetic items.
• Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry all day. Discreet design offers a touch of quiet luxury. A great size for everyday errands. Holds its value exceptionally well.
• Cons: Limited capacity means it's not suited for work or travel. The open-top design might feel less secure to some users. The price is substantial for a relatively simple bag.

This bag suits those who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic and need a reliable, high-quality handbag for just the essentials.

Shop this product: hermes.com/us/en/product/picotin-32-handbag-H089052CKAA

Hermès Picotin 42

The Hermès Picotin 42 takes the beloved minimalist design of the Picotin and scales it up into a highly functional tote. It offers a significant amount of space, making it a luxurious option for work, weekend trips, or for those who simply need to carry more throughout their day. While larger, it maintains the same effortlessly chic silhouette and impeccable quality the brand is known for.

• What it is: A large, spacious tote-style bucket bag designed for maximum capacity and functionality.
• Key features: Measures approximately 16" L x 9" H x 7" W, features a single handle and the same leather strap and lock closure system on a larger scale.
• Price: Approximately $8,000 - $8,500 USD, varying based on material choices.
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from the same premium leathers as its smaller counterparts, ensuring durability and a beautiful finish.
• Capacity: Can easily hold a small tablet or notebook, a water bottle, a larger cosmetics case, a scarf, and all standard essentials.
• Pros: Generous capacity makes it perfect for work or as a stylish travel carry-on. The wide opening allows for easy access to your belongings. It's a statement piece that is both practical and luxurious.
• Cons: Can become quite heavy when full. Its larger size might overwhelm more petite frames. The significant price increase compared to the 32 is a major consideration.

This is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a high-capacity luxury bag that can handle the demands of work, travel, or a busy lifestyle.

Shop this product: hermes.com/us/en/product/picotin-42-handbag-H089052CKAB

Hermès Picotin 32 vs. 42 Comparison

Size & Capacity

The most crucial difference is unquestionably size. The Picotin 32 measures 9 inches in length and serves as a true handbag, built for essentials only. Its compact form is subtle and doesn't get in the way during a busy day of errands.

In contrast, the Picotin 42 is dramatically larger at 16 inches long, firmly placing it in the tote bag category. This additional space transforms its function entirely, accommodating work items like a notebook or tablet, a change of shoes, or travel necessities. This size difference also affects its visual presence, the 32 is discreet, whereas the 42 is much more noticeable.

Usability & Comfort

When it comes to comfort, the Picotin 32 has a clear advantage. Its lightweight and compact nature make it effortless to carry by hand or in the crook of your arm for extended periods. It’s a true "grab-and-go" bag that never feels cumbersome.

The Picotin 42, while comfortable when empty, can become heavy once you start utilizing its generous capacity. It’s better suited for transit - from home to car to office - rather than being carried while walking around a city for hours. Its purpose is functionality over featherlight portability.

Price & Value

There is a price gap of approximately $2,000 between the two sizes, which reflects the additional material and labor required for the Picotin 42. Both handbags are considered solid investments within the luxury market. Hermès bags are famous for retaining, and often increasing, their value over time, especially in neutral colors and classic leathers like Togo or Clemence. Your decision should be based on utility rather than return on investment, as both perform well in that regard.

Who Each One Works Best For

The Picotin 32 is designed for the person who values a minimalist approach. It's for someone who carries only what they need - phone, keys, cardholder, lipstick - and wants a sophisticated, easy-to-style bag for daily use, brunch, or casual evenings out.

The Picotin 42 caters to a completely different need. It’s for the professional who needs a stylish work tote, the traveler who wants an elegant carry-on, or the parent who requires extra space but doesn't want to sacrifice style. If your life demands more storage, the 42 is the functional choice.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both sizes are beautiful examples of Hermès' understated craftsmanship, but they serve very different lifestyles and needs.

Choose the Picotin 32 if:

• You carry only the daily essentials and prefer a tidy, organized bag.
• You value a lightweight design that is easy to carry all day.
• You want a versatile, discreet bag for running errands, shopping, and casual outings.
• Your style leans toward minimalism and quiet luxury.

Choose the Picotin 42 if:

• You need a bag with enough capacity for work items, a tablet, or a water bottle.
• You're looking for a sophisticated and roomy travel tote.
• You prefer bags with a larger presence and are comfortable with the extra weight.
• Functionality and capacity are your top priorities in a luxury handbag.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Picotin 32 and 42?

The primary difference is size and capacity. The 32 is a compact handbag for essentials, while the 42 is a large tote bag designed to carry much more. The 42 is nearly double the length of the 32, making it suitable for work or travel.

Is the Hermès Picotin a good investment?

Yes, Picotin bags generally hold their value very well, which is characteristic of most handbags from Hermès. Factors like the type of leather, color, and condition will influence its resale value.

Which Picotin size is more popular?

Generally, smaller sizes like the Picotin 18 and 22 are some of the most sought-after for daily use. Between the 32 and 42, the 32 is a more common choice for an everyday luxury handbag, whereas the 42 serves more specific, high-capacity needs.

How do you carry the Picotin?

The Picotin is designed as a top-handle bag. It's meant to be carried by hand or in the crook of the elbow. It does not come with a shoulder strap and one cannot be officially added.

Is the Picotin 42 too big for everyday use?

For most people, the 42 is likely too large for simple daily errands. Its size is best utilized by those who need to transport more than just the basics, making it an excellent work bag, parent bag, or travel companion.

What leather is best for a Picotin?

Clemence and Togo leathers are the most common and popular choices for the Picotin. Both are made from calfskin and are known for their resilience to scratches and their soft, slouchy texture, which perfectly complements the bag’s relaxed design.

Does the Picotin have a secure closure?

The Picotin has a fully open top. It features a thin leather strap that threads through the handles and can be secured with the included padlock. However, it is not a fully enclosed bag with a zipper, so it's less secure than other tote styles.

Can the Picotin 42 fit a laptop?

While spacious, the Picotin 42 is not structured to safely carry most standard laptops. A small tablet or an 11-inch ultrabook might fit, but its soft structure doesn't offer protection, and the fit would be very tight for anything larger.