Hermès Halzan 25 vs. 31: Which size is right for you?

The Hermès Halzan 25 and Halzan 31 directly compete on size, with the core difference being daily practicality versus compact elegance. The Halzan 31 is a substantial, versatile carryall that can hold a tablet and work essentials, while the more petite Halzan 25 is streamlined for carrying just the necessities, making it ideal for lighter days or evening outings.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Hermès Halzan size for your lifestyle.

Hermès Halzan 25

The Hermès Halzan 25 is a sleek and compact handbag that offers the functional elegance of the Halzan design in a smaller, more modern silhouette. It’s perfect for the person who carries minimal essentials but refuses to compromise on craftsmanship or style, making it a sophisticated choice for both day and evening use.

• What it is: A smaller-sized, versatile luxury handbag featuring a distinctive stirrup-shaped handle and an adjustable strap for multiple carrying options.
• Key features: Measures approximately 9.8" W x 7.1" H x 3.1" D (25cm x 18cm x 8cm). Features the iconic "H" clasp closure and can be worn as a shoulder bag, crossbody, or clutch.
• Price: Starts around $8,000 - $9,000 USD, with variations based on leather and hardware.
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from signature Hermès leathers such as Clemence, Epsom, or Swift, with impeccable hand-stitching and either palladium or gold-plated hardware.
• Sizing/Fit: Comfortably fits essentials like a small wallet, keys, phone, and lipstick. Its petite size is ideal for those who prefer not to be weighed down by a larger bag.
• Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry. Elegant, minimalist aesthetic. Transitions easily to an evening bag. Less conspicuous than a larger luxury bag.
• Cons: Limited capacity - will not fit a tablet or other larger items. May feel too small for a primary, everyday workhorse bag.

This size works perfectly for minimalists, those seeking a refined evening bag, or anyone who wants a lightweight and elegant option for just the essentials.

Shop this product: hermes.com/us/en/product/halzan-25-bag

Hermès Halzan 31

The Hermès Halzan 31 is the larger, more utilitarian counterpart to the 25, designed for those who need more space without sacrificing timeless style. It maintains the Halzan's unique silhouette and versatile functionality but offers enough room to easily serve as a primary handbag for work, travel, or busy days about town.

• What it is: A spacious and structured luxury handbag designed for everyday functionality with a sophisticated aesthetic.
• Key features: Measures approximately 12.2" W x 8.7" H x 4.7" D (31cm x 22cm x 12cm). It shares the same adjustable strap and classic buckle as the 25.
• Price: Typically ranges from $9,500 - $10,500 USD, depending on materials.
• Materials/Construction: Built with the same exceptional standards and materials as all Hermès leather goods, ensuring durability for decades of use.
• Sizing/Fit: Its generous interior can accommodate a tablet, small notebook, cosmetic bag, wallet, phone, and more, making it an excellent choice for a work or daily driver bag.
• Pros: Ample capacity for daily necessities. Highly versatile for work, travel, and weekends. Offers a more substantial presence. Great value for its size and functionality within the Hermès lineup.
• Cons: Can feel significantly heavier when full. The larger size may feel cumbersome for petite individuals. Higher price point than the 25.

This bag suits professionals, travelers, or anyone who needs a chic, spacious handbag that can transition seamlessly across all parts of their life.

Shop this product: hermes.com/us/en/product/halzan-31-bag

Hermès Halzan 25 vs. Halzan 31 Comparison

Size & Capacity

The most immediate difference is size. The Halzan 25, with its compact 9.8-inch width, is truly an essentials-only bag. It’s perfect for carrying your phone, keys, a cardholder, and a lip gloss. Trying to fit anything more becomes a challenge.

In contrast, the Halzan 31 measures 12.2 inches wide, transforming it into a capable daily workhorse. The larger interior can easily accommodate an iPad or small tablet, a notebook, a full-sized wallet, a small makeup pouch, and other daily necessities without feeling overstuffed. This jump in capacity makes the 31 much more practical for a standard workday or a day of running errands.

Style & Versatility

While both sizes boast the same ingenious design that allows for multiple carry styles, their aesthetics serve slightly different purposes. The Halzan 25's smaller profile leans into a more modern, minimalist trend. It feels sleeker and is better suited for evening occasions or moments when a large bag would feel out of place. It’s discreet luxury at its finest.

The Halzan 31 has a more substantial presence that reads as classically versatile. It’s a chic tote alternative that looks polished and professional for the office but also works beautifully for a weekend brunch or as a personal item for travel. If you need one bag to do almost everything, the 31 offers greater versatility across a wider range of daily activities.

Materials & Craftsmanship

There is no difference in quality between the Halzan 25 and 31. As an Hermès creation, both sizes are handcrafted by artisans using the world's finest leathers, whether you choose a grained Clemence or a structured Epsom. The hardware is equally exceptional, and the meticulous stitching is a brand signature. When choosing between the two, craftsmanship and material quality are identical, so your decision can rest entirely on function and aesthetic preference.

Price & Value

The Halzan 31 is approximately $1,500 more expensive than the Halzan 25. While a considerable sum, the Halzan 31 arguably provides better value for those needing a primary handbag. Its carrying capacity and versatility make it far more functional as an everyday bag, potentially justifying the higher cost through increased use. The Halzan 25 offers a lower entry price into the Hermès world and is a better value for someone looking specifically for a smaller, occasional, or evening bag to add to a larger collection.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both bags are an exceptional investment, but each size is designed for a very different customer and purpose.

Choose the Halzan 25 if:

• You are a minimalist who only carries a phone, keys, and cards.
• You need an elegant and versatile bag for evenings and special occasions.
• You prefer lightweight bags and a smaller, more discreet silhouette.
• You have a petite frame, and larger bags often feel overwhelming.

Choose the Halzan 31 if:

• You need a primary handbag to carry you through a busy workday.
• You regularly carry a tablet, notebook, or more than just the bare essentials.
• You want maximum versatility and need a bag that works for office, weekend, and travel.
• You value capacity and functionality and want the best "cost per wear" a single bag can offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Halzan 25 and 31?

The main difference is size and carrying capacity. The Halzan 25 measures 25 cm across and is suited for essentials, while the Halzan 31 measures 31 cm across and can fit a tablet and other daily necessities, making it a true workhorse bag.

Can the Hermès Halzan 25 fit a phone?

Yes, the Halzan 25 can comfortably fit a standard-sized smartphone, along with a small card case, keys, and lipstick. However, larger "Pro Max" models may be a tighter fit.

Is the Halzan 31 a good work bag?

Absolutely. The Halzan 31 is an excellent work bag due to its capacity to hold a tablet, notebook, and other professional items. Its structured yet elegant design is perfectly appropriate for a corporate environment.

Which size is more practical for everyday use?

For most people, the Halzan 31 is more practical for everyday use because of its superior capacity. It allows you to carry whatever you need for a full day without needing a second bag.

Is the Halzan a good investment?

Yes, like most Hermès handbags, the Halzan holds its value very well on the resale market. Its classic design and superior craftsmanship ensure it remains desirable for years to come.

How heavy are the Halzan bags?

The Halzan 25 is quite lightweight. The Halzan 31 is noticeably heavier due to its larger size and the amount of leather used, and its weight will increase substantially once filled.

What leathers are available for the Halzan?

The Halzan is commonly offered in rich, durable leathers like Clemence (a soft, pebbled calfskin) and Togo, as well as more rigid options like Epsom. The available leather depends on seasonal production.

How do you style the Hermès Halzan?

Both sizes are incredibly versatile. They can be carried by the top handles for a polished look, worn as a casual shoulder bag, or used crossbody for hands-free convenience. The front flap can also be folded down for a more relaxed, open-tote style.