Hermès Bolide 27 vs. 31: Which size is right for you?

The Hermès Bolide 27 and the Bolide 31 are distinguished by 4 centimeters in width, a small difference that significantly impacts capacity, style, and everyday use. The Bolide 27 is a compact, streamlined bag perfect for essentials, while the larger Bolide 31 offers more versatility and space for those who carry more throughout their day.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which Hermès Bolide is the right investment for you.

Hermès Bolide 27

The Bolide 27 is the smaller and more petite of the two sizes, embodying a sleek and discreet elegance. Its compact design makes it a favorite for those who prefer a lightweight bag that holds just the necessities without feeling bulky. The structured, rounded silhouette remains classic and sophisticated, suitable for both formal events and polished daily wear.

• What it is: A compact, structured luxury Saffiano handbag with a top handle, zip closure, and a detachable shoulder strap.
• Key features: Measures approximately 27 cm wide, 20 cm high, and 11 cm deep. Features a secure zip top and a luxurious leather interior.
• Price: Typically ranges from $8,000 to $12,000 USD, varying by leather and hardware.
• Capacity: Fits essentials like a phone, cardholder, keys, lipstick, and sunglasses, but not much more.
• Sizing/Fit: Best suited for petite frames or for anyone seeking a minimalist, unobtrusive bag.
• Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry, transitions perfectly from day to night, elegant and understated, holds its structure beautifully.
• Cons: Limited capacity may not be practical for full-day outings and can't fit larger items like a tablet or water bottle.

This size works perfectly for those who travel light and favor a minimalist, polished aesthetic for both special occasions and daily use.

Shop this product: hermes.com/us/en/product/bolide-27-handbag/

Hermès Bolide 31

The Bolide 31 offers a noticeable increase in space and presence while maintaining the bag's classic and elegant proportions. This size functions as a true everyday workhorse, providing enough room for daily necessities plus a few extras, making it exceptionally versatile for work, travel, or busy weekends.

• What it is: A medium-sized, structured handbag with a top handle, zip closure, and corresponding detachable shoulder strap.
• Key features: Measures approximately 31 cm wide, 20 cm high, and 11 cm deep. Includes the same secure zipper and refined design as the 27.
• Price: Slightly more than the 27, generally falling within the $8,000 to $12,000 range.
• Capacity: Comfortably holds a phone, large wallet, makeup pouch, sunglasses, and a small tablet or e-reader.
• Sizing/Fit: A great everyday size for most people, it's substantial without being overwhelming and complements taller frames well.
• Pros: Excellent capacity for daily use, versatile for work and leisure, maintains an elegant shape even when full, practical yet luxurious.
• Cons: Marginally heavier than the 27, may feel slightly large for evening occasions or on very petite frames.

Ideal for anyone needing a sophisticated, do-it-all bag that combines timeless Hermès style with practical, everyday functionality.

Shop this product: hermes.com/us/en/product/bolide-31-handbag/

Hermès Bolide 27 vs. Hermès Bolide 31 Comparison

Size & Capacity

The primary difference is an extra 4 cm (approx. 1.6 inches) in width. While this sounds minor, it significantly alters the bag’s interior space. The Bolide 27 is an 'essentials-only' bag. Think of it as a day-to-evening superstar that holds your phone, keys, and a cardholder.

In contrast, the Bolide 31's extra room makes it a far more functional daily driver. You can easily fit a larger wallet, a full makeup bag, sunglasses in a case, and even a small e-reader without disrupting the bag's elegant shape.

Style & Aesthetic

Both sizes are undeniably elegant, but their proportions create different effects. The Bolide 27 reads as more delicate, compact, and slightly more formal. It’s a chic companion that complements an outfit without commanding attention. Its smaller scale makes it feel timelessly discreet.

The Bolide 31 feels more substantial and practical. It projects a capable, polished look that is perfectly at home in a professional setting or on a busy day of errands. While still very elegant, its presence is more that of a classic handbag versus a compact accessory.

Versatility & Daily Use

Your lifestyle is the deciding factor in versatility. If your days are filled with office meetings or you tend to carry more, the Bolide 31 is the more practical choice. It functions as an excellent work tote that can carry you through the weekend.

If you prefer a smaller bag and have mastered the art of minimalist culling, the Bolide 27 is extremely versatile. It can be carried by its top handle for a formal look or worn crossbody with its strap for hands-free convenience, making it ideal for city living, brunches, and evening outings.

The Bolide 31's crossbody would feel slightly too overwhelming, while the Bolide 27 lends itself perfectly to that style.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both Bolide sizes are excellent choices that serve different priorities, so the right one depends entirely on your needs.

Choose the Hermès Bolide 27 if:

• You prefer carrying only the absolute essentials day-to-day.
• You have a petite frame and want a bag that is proportional to you.
• You are looking for a highly versatile bag that easily transitions from day to evening events.
• You appreciate a sleek, minimalist silhouette.

Choose the Hermès Bolide 31 if:

• You need a sophisticated bag that can hold more than just the basics.
• You want a reliable, go-to Saffiano choice bag for work that fits a small tablet or notebook.
• You are taller or prefer a bag with a more substantial presence.
• Your priority is functional capacity and all-day versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Bolide 27 and 31?

The primary difference is size and capacity. The Bolide 27 is 27 cm wide and designed for essentials, while the more spacious Bolide 31 is 31 cm wide and can comfortably hold additional items like a makeup pouch or small tablet.

Does the Bolide come with a shoulder strap?

Yes, both the Bolide 27 and 31 come with a detachable leather shoulder strap. This allows for multiple ways to carry the bag - by the top handle, on the shoulder, or crossbody (which works better with the smaller Bolide 27).

Which size is better for everyday use?

This entirely depends on your definition of "everyday." For a minimalist who carries little, the Bolide 27 is perfect. However, for most people who need to carry a variety of items for work or personal errands, the Bolide 31 offers greater practicality for daily use.

How do I choose a size based on my height?

While personal preference plays a large role, generally petite individuals (5'4" and under) often find the proportions of the Bolide 27 highly complementary. Taller individuals may prefer the more substantial presence of the Bolide 31, which looks more balanced on women around 5'6".

Is the Hermès Bolide a good investment?

Yes. The Bolide is a timeless and classic Hermès design known for its exceptional craftsmanship and durable materials. It tends to hold its value well on the resale market, making it a sound long-term luxury purchase.

What type of closure does the Bolide have?

One of the Bolide's defining features is its secure zip-top closure. It was historically one of the first handbags to ever use a zipper, adding a layer of security and practicality that many modern bags share.

Is the Bolide 31 heavy when empty?

The Bolide 31 is marginally heavier than the 27 due to its larger size, but it is not considered a heavy bag, especially when crafted from leathers like Togo or Clemence. It is generally comfortable to carry throughout the day.

Can the Bolide 27 fit a modern smartphone?

Absolutely. The Bolide 27 can easily accommodate all standard and larger-sized smartphones, with room to spare for other small essentials like keys, a cardholder, and lipstick.