Hermès price increases are nothing new — but 2026 feels different. Customers are asking the same question in light of the obvious increases in Birkin, Kelly, and Constance bags, as well as the increasing online discussion about potential increases:

Is now the right time to buy a Hermès bag — or should you wait?

Knowing what really changed in 2026 (and what's just gossip) can help you make a better, more assured choice, whether you're looking for a boutique offer or investigating the pre-owned market.

What Changed: Confirmed Hermès Price Increases for 2026

As anticipated, Hermès continued its long-standing annual pricing strategy in January 2026 by implementing price increases across the board. The majority of core bags saw mid-to-high single-digit increases, although the percentage increases varied by model, size, and region.

📈 Hermès Price Updates (Europe)

Hermès raised retail prices in Europe effective January 1, 2026. Below are example increases across Birkin and Kelly styles:

• Mini Kelly 20 up ~7.4% to €8,000
• Kelly 25 (Togo) up ~7.3% to €9,600
• Birkin 30 (Togo) up ~8.2% to €10,600
• Birkin 35 (Togo) up ~9.4% to €11,600

🇺🇸 U.S. Hermès Price Changes

U.S. pricing also climbed in January 2026, with comparable — and in some cases higher — percentage increases:

• Mini Kelly 20 ~ +8.6% ($10,500 → $11,400)
• Kelly 25 (Togo) ~ +8.7% ($12,600 → $13,700)
• Birkin 25 ~ +6.3% ($12,700 → $13,500)
• Birkin 35 ~ +7.9% ($15,100 → $16,300)

Key takeaways from the 2026 increase

• Birkin bags experienced some of the strongest jumps, particularly in classic sizes like the Birkin 30 and 35.
• Kelly bags, including the highly coveted Mini Kelly, also rose noticeably.
• Constance bags increased more modestly but still followed the upward trend.
• Smaller leather goods and non-quota bags were not exempt.

These increases are a result of artisan labour, growing production costs, and Hermès's ongoing efforts to maintain exclusivity through pricing.

The conclusion is that Hermès prices are rising steadily, not sharply, but steadily enough that waiting seldom results in lower retail prices.

Why Hermès Raises Prices Every Year

Hermès operates differently from most luxury houses. Rather than chasing volume, it prioritises craftsmanship, controlled supply, and long-term brand equity.

Annual price increases allow Hermès to:

• Offset rising costs of leather, materials, and skilled labour
• Maintain tight control over demand
• Reinforce the brand’s ultra-luxury positioning
• Gradually align pricing across global markets

For buyers, this means one thing: retail prices rarely go backwards.

What’s Rumoured: 2026 Price Chatter Explained

Alongside confirmed January increases, online forums and collector communities have been buzzing with rumours of steeper future hikes, including speculation of double-digit increases for certain categories.

What’s driving the rumours?

• Increased visibility of Hermès pricing online
• Anxiety-driven buying behaviour after past price jumps
• Confusion between regional adjustments and global increases
• Social media amplification of unverified claims

What’s important to know

• Hermès does not pre-announce price changes
• Rumours often circulate months before any official update
• Until prices change in boutiques or on Hermès’ website, they remain speculation

Bottom line: Treat rumours cautiously. The only confirmed increase for 2026 is the January adjustment.

What the 2026 Price Increase Means for Buyers

For boutique buyers

• Price increases raise the entry point for quota bags
• Higher prices can intensify competition for popular models
• Long-term clients remain favoured for Birkin and Kelly offers

If you’re waiting for a boutique offer, a higher retail price may mean:

• A larger financial commitment when the offer finally arrives
• Less flexibility to change your mind

For preloved buyers

Retail price increases often act as price anchors for the resale market — but resale prices don’t always rise at the same pace.

This creates opportunities to:

• Buy classic Hermès bags below current retail
• Skip waiting lists entirely
• Secure discontinued sizes, leathers, or colours

In 2026, the value gap between boutique and preloved Hermès is becoming more noticeable.

Are Hermès Bags Still Worth Buying in 2026?

The answer depends on why you’re buying.

If you’re buying for love

Hermès bags are designed to last decades. If a Birkin or Kelly fits your lifestyle and personal style, price increases won’t erase long-term enjoyment.

If you’re buying for value retention

While resale premiums have softened compared to peak years, Hermès remains one of the strongest-performing brands on the secondary market.

Classic styles in neutral colours continue to hold their appeal — especially when purchased at the right price.

Smart Buying Tips for 2026

For retail buyers:

• Expect annual price increases going forward
• Be realistic about wait times and prespend requirements
• Understand the total cost of a boutique offer

For preloved buyers:

• Compare resale prices against updated retail
• Look beyond hype colours and trends
• Focus on condition, craftsmanship, and authenticity

(FAQ)

Will Hermès prices increase again in 2026?

Hermès traditionally raises prices once per year, usually in January. While additional increases are rumoured, no further changes have been officially confirmed.

Do Hermès price increases affect resale prices?

Often, yes — but not immediately or evenly. Retail hikes can support resale values, but market demand and availability play a major role.

Are Birkin and Kelly bags increasing faster than other styles?

Generally, quota bags tend to see stronger increases than non-quota bags, especially in classic sizes and leathers.

Is it cheaper to buy Hermès in Europe in 2026?

Europe often remains more competitively priced, but tax refunds, currency fluctuations, and availability all factor into the final cost.

Is buying preloved Hermès safer than waiting for retail?

Preloved buying offers immediate access and price transparency, but authenticity and condition are critical. Always buy from trusted sellers.

Final Thoughts

Hermès’ 2026 price increase confirms one thing: waiting rarely makes Hermès more affordable.

For some buyers, boutique shopping still holds emotional appeal. For others, the preloved market offers flexibility, value, and immediate gratification — without sacrificing craftsmanship or authenticity.

Understanding the difference between confirmed changes and rumours allows you to buy with confidence, not urgency.

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