We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
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An elegant choice for boardroom to dinner, this vintage Hermès Kelly Retourne 32 in black Box calf with gold-toned hardware delivers timeless polish. Carry by the top handle or use the detachable strap, while the lined interior with zipped and slip pockets keeps essentials organised. A refined companion for formal events and elevated everyday wear.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What fits inside the Hermès Kelly Retourne 32? A: The 32 cm Kelly typically holds daily essentials: a smartphone (including larger models), a long wallet, keys, a compact cosmetics pouch, slim sunglasses case, and a small notebook. An 11-inch tablet usually fits; a 13-inch laptop generally does not. Capacity can vary slightly by year and leather—please refer to the Measurements on this page or contact us for a tailored fit check for this exact piece.
Q: Is a shoulder strap included and can I wear it crossbody? A: Kelly bags are designed with a single top handle and usually come with a detachable shoulder strap. Pre-loved pieces may not include the strap—please see “Accessories” to confirm what’s included. The strap is typically not adjustable and is best suited for shoulder carry; most wearers find the 32 sits quite high if worn crossbody. If strap length details are missing, just ask and we’ll measure for you.
Q: What is the difference between Kelly Retourne and Sellier? A: Retourne construction has the seams turned inward, creating softer edges and a more relaxed silhouette with a slightly roomier feel. Sellier has outward, edge-painted seams for a sharper, more structured look. Retourne can feel a touch more forgiving for everyday use; Sellier holds a crisp shape more firmly. Choice is largely aesthetic and usage‑based.
Q: What is Hermès Box calf leather and how does it age? A: Box calf is a classic, smooth calfskin with a refined sheen and very fine grain. It can show hairline scratches more readily than textured leathers, but many superficial marks can be gently buffed and the leather develops a beautiful patina over time. Box is sensitive to moisture; exposure to rain can mark the surface, so extra care in wet weather is recommended.
Q: How should I care for Box calf on a Kelly? A: Keep the bag away from water, oils and prolonged sunlight. If caught in light rain, blot (don’t rub) with a soft cloth and allow to air‑dry away from heat. Use a clean, soft cloth to gently buff minor surface marks; condition very sparingly with a suitable neutral product only if needed (test first on a discreet area). Store the bag upright, lightly stuffed, in a breathable dust bag, with the strap and hardware protected from rubbing against the leather.
Q: What is the closure like and how secure is it? A: The Kelly features a flap with sangles and a turn‑lock (touret). Many versions also include a padlock with clochette and keys. This provides good everyday security; for commuting, keep smaller valuables in an interior pocket or pouch. Please review our photos and description for the exact configuration of this piece.
Q: What does the interior typically include? A: Kelly interiors usually have a single main compartment with one zip pocket and one slip pocket; layout and lining leather can vary by era. Some models include metal feet (clous) to help protect the base. Please refer to our photos and description for the precise interior and base details of this item.
Q: Will it fit a tablet or laptop? A: An 11-inch tablet (e.g., iPad 11-inch class) generally fits comfortably. Slim 12-inch devices may fit depending on the sleeve and the bag’s opening. Most 13-inch laptops are a tight fit and are not recommended. Compare your device with the Measurements shown or ask us to perform a quick fit check for this exact bag.
Q: Where are the Hermès markings and date stamps located? A: Authentic Kelly bags feature a heat‑stamp (e.g., “Hermès Paris Made in France”) and a blind stamp/date code with artisan marks, typically located on or near the interior side of a strap or inside the bag. Placement and format vary by year. We’re happy to share close‑up photos and help interpret the stamp for this piece on request.
Q: Is the Kelly 32 still produced? What about Box calf? A: The Kelly is an ongoing Hermès icon and 32 cm remains a sought‑after size, though availability and leather offerings vary by season. Box calf appears periodically and can be limited at retail. The pre‑loved market is an excellent way to find specific size/leather combinations like a Kelly 32 in Box.
Q: What accessories are included and how do you authenticate? A: Any included items (e.g., shoulder strap, clochette, keys, lock, dust bag, box) are listed under “Accessories.” If something isn’t mentioned there, it isn’t included—please ask us to confirm. Every item at A Retro Tale undergoes rigorous, multi‑point authentication by our in‑house experts, assessing materials, stitching, hardware, stamps, blind codes and construction. We stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
Outside EU, Åland and UK: Please note that customers outside of EU, Åland and UK are responsible upon delivery for any import duties, goods and services tax (GST), value added tax (VAT), customs fees, and any other tax on top of the A Retro Tale listed price. Delivery delays may occur due to external factors such as customs clearance, holidays etc.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
/ Hermès
/ Bags
/ Handbags
/ Kelly Bags
8 738 €
• Black Box calf leather
• Gold-toned hardware
• Single top handle and a detachable shoulder strap
• Black leather lining with one zipped pocket and two slip pockets
• Turn-lock closure
• Vintage
The authenticity of this bag has been checked and verified by our experts who have over 10 years of experience in vintage and luxury bags. We also use a well established 3rd party authentication tool to verify our bags.
