Constance 18 vs. 24: Capacity, Comfort, and Resale Performance

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Choosing between the Hermès Constance 18 and 24 isn't just about picking a size. It's about finding the right balance of style, practicality, and long-term value. Who hasn't stood in a boutique (or just daydreamed about it) wondering which one will really fit your life?

The Constance 24 holds a lot more of your daily must-haves while keeping that unmistakable silhouette, but the 18 wins for crossbody comfort and usually edges out the 24 in resale. Both sizes carry the same iconic pedigree, but you really start noticing their differences once you actually use them.

We're diving into everything from what fits to how they wear and how they hold up on the resale market. When you're about to invest in something this special, you want the real scoop, not just the specs.

Key Takeaways

• The Constance 24 fits way more than the 18, making it more practical for daily use
• Both sizes are comfortable on the shoulder, but the 18 is much easier to wear crossbody, especially for a range of body types
• The 18 usually keeps its value better, thanks to its popularity and versatility as a crossbody

Constance 18 vs. 24: Quick Size Comparison

The Hermès Constance 18 measures 18cm across the base, while the 24 stretches to. You guessed it: 24cm. That 6cm gap changes not just the look, but how each bag functions day-to-day.

Dimensions and Specifications

The Constance 18 comes in at about 18cm wide, 15cm tall, and 4cm deep. It's definitely in the mini bag realm.

The Constance 24 is roughly 24cm wide, 18cm high, and 4cm deep. Those few extra centimeters make a surprising difference inside.

Both bags sport the signature H-clasp and an adjustable strap. The strap length stays the same on both, so you can wear either on your shoulder or crossbody.

Hermès Constance 18 vs. 24 On-Figure

If you're petite (around 160cm or under), the Constance 18 just works crossbody. It hugs your torso and doesn't overpower your frame.

If you're taller (170cm+), the Constance 24 looks more balanced. The bigger size stops the bag from looking dinky against a larger silhouette.

Most people find the Constance 18 a breeze to wear crossbody. It's small enough to stay out of your way.

The Constance 24 can look a bit bulky as a crossbody. A lot of folks just stick to wearing it on the shoulder for a more polished look.

Design Differences Between Constance 18 and 24

Both sizes share that classic design DNA. The H-clasp, those clean lines, and that minimal vibe. The leather and craftsmanship are top-notch regardless of size.

Inside, the 24 gives you a bit more room in the main compartment and slightly deeper pockets.

The 24 now comes with an interior mirror, which is handy. The 18 keeps things simple with its original layout.

Strap attachment points stay the same, but the bigger 24 just hangs differently on the body.

Hardware and closure? Identical. The H-clasp looks right-sized on both.

Capacity Reality: What Actually Fits

The real difference between the Constance 18 and 24 is about how much you can carry without things feeling cramped. The mini keeps you honest about what you pack, while the 24 lets you bring a bit more along for the ride.

Everyday Essentials: Constance 18

The Constance mini makes you prioritize. Your iPhone (even the big ones) fits, but you'll have to swap your regular wallet for a slim card holder.

What fits comfortably:

• Smartphone (even larger models)
• Compact card holder or tiny wallet
• Keys
• Lip balm or lipstick
• AirPods

The 18 kind of forces you to go minimalist. No room for random receipts or "just in case" extras.

If you overpack, the bag bulges and loses that sleek look. Keep it simple, and it stays sharp.

Room to Spare: Packing the Constance 24

The Constance 24 is for people who want to carry more, no compromises. It takes everything from the 18, plus the extras that make a long day easier.

What else fits:

• Full-size wallet
• Sunglasses case
• Hand cream or sanitizer
• Tissues
• Small perfume
• Mints or snacks

Those extra centimeters really open things up. The 24 just feels more relaxed inside.

Even packed full, the 24 holds its shape. You won't see the bag bulging or the H-clasp straining.

On travel days or longer outings, the 24's capacity is a lifesaver. It's still elegant, just more forgiving.

Comfort and Wear: How They Feel in Real Life

Wearing the Constance 18 and 24 feels different, mostly because of how the straps sit and the weight. Both are versatile, but your body type and daily needs will probably tip the scales.

Shoulder and Crossbody Style

The Constance 18 has a longer strap, making it easier to wear crossbody, especially for shorter folks. If you're under 5'5", it'll probably hit right at your waist.

The Constance 24's strap is shorter, so it's better suited to shoulder carry or a high crossbody. If you're tall, it might feel a bit awkward crossbody, but it sits nicely on the shoulder.

You can double up the strap on both for a shorter drop. The adjustability is nice, but the 18 gives you more leeway.

Both are hands-free when worn crossbody, which is a must when you're juggling life.

Weight and Practicality

The Constance 18 is noticeably lighter, so you can wear it longer without feeling it. Since you can't overpack, your shoulder will thank you.

The 24 weighs more, especially when full, but the strap and structure spread the load pretty well.

The mini almost disappears crossbody. The 24? You'll notice it after a while, especially if you've packed it to the brim.

Both have solid construction, so you won't get weird pressure points. The leather strap softens up with use, making it comfier over time.

Travelling and Daily Use

For travel, the Constance 18 is a dream. Small enough for sightseeing and dinner, and TSA won't blink at it.

The 24 is better for business trips or long days out. You can stash documents, a bigger phone, and more without it looking stuffed.

If you're a minimalist, the 18 is probably your daily go-to. Need more space for work, makeup, or family stuff? Go with the 24.

Both handle weather decently, but the 18 tucks under a coat more easily if it starts pouring.

Resale Performance: Value Over Time

Both Constance sizes hold their value shockingly well. The Hermès Constance is always near the top for luxury bags that don't lose their worth.

Current Resale Trends for 18 and 24

The Hermès Constance is a resale powerhouse in both sizes. Sellers often get back what they paid, sometimes more, and some bags vanish from resale sites within a day.

Size-Specific Performance:

• Constance 18: Usually fetches 90-110% of retail
• Constance 24: Tends to hold 85-105% of retail

The Mini 18 is especially hot right now. Younger buyers love its size and the fact that it works crossbody.

The 24 stays popular with people who want a roomier daily bag.

Market reports keep ranking both as smart luxury investments. Oddly enough, Hermès ramping up production hasn't hurt resale at all, maybe even helped.

Factors Affecting Constance Resale Value

Leather and hardware combos make a big difference. Epsom leather in classic shades with gold or rose gold hardware usually sells fastest.

Condition is everything. The H-clasp scratches easily, so bags in mint shape are worth a lot more.

Timing matters. Demand spikes around holidays and fashion weeks.

Trends shift. Right now, mini bags are in, so the 18 is extra desirable. But folks who need practicality still go for the 24.

Having the original box, receipt, and dust bag can bump your resale price by 10-15% on premium sites.

Hermès Constance Heritage

The Constance bag comes with a backstory that's both personal and stylish. Its origins tie into Hermès' tradition of naming bags after real people, and its rise to icon status owes a lot to some very famous fans.

History and Iconic Origins

Back in 1967, designer Catherine Chaillet dreamed up what would become one of Hermès' most sought-after bags. She worked under Jean-Louis Dumas, the Hermès boss at the time, and designed the Constance as a chic, urban bag with a sporty vibe.

The naming story is genuinely sweet. Chaillet was pregnant while designing the bag and decided to name it after her soon-to-be-born daughter, Constance. That personal touch became part of Hermès lore.

Chaillet wanted a bag that was practical but still elegant. The adjustable strap and structured shape nailed that balance.

Key Design Elements:

• The signature H closure
• Adjustable leather strap
• Clean, geometric lines
• Proportions that look refined but work for real life

The Constance joined classics like the Birkin and Kelly, but its understated look carved out its own spot in the luxury world.

Catherine Chaillet and Jackie Kennedy Influence

Chaillet brought a fresh eye to Hermès' legacy. Her vision of a bag that could go from day to night was pretty forward-thinking.

Jackie Kennedy gave the Constance a big boost. Her style set the tone in the '60s and '70s, and when she was seen with the bag, it cemented its place in fashion history.

Jackie's taste matched the bag's low-key elegance. She wasn't paid to carry it, she just liked it. That kind of authenticity is rare.

Jackie's Style Impact:

• Put the Constance on the international map
• Showed it works for all kinds of events
• Proved it's timeless

Chaillet's design and Kennedy's influence made the Constance a must-have for luxury lovers.

Other Popular Constance Sizes and Alternatives

The Constance family stretches beyond just the 18 and 24. There are micro and mini versions for ultra-compact luxury, plus special styles like the Elan and Cartable for different needs.

Constance Micro and Constance Mini

The Constance Micro is the tiniest of the bunch. It's really just for evenings or special occasions.

It holds the bare minimum; lipstick, cards, maybe your phone if you’re lucky. It almost feels like jewelry when you wear it.

The Constance Mini sits between the micro and the 18. It’s a touch more practical while still looking super compact.

Both work well crossbody. The proportions flatter petite frames, but taller folks can totally pull off the dramatic look.

Exploring Constance Elan, Cartable, and Limited Editions

The Constance Elan has a longer, horizontal shape that stands out from the classic style. It's great for evenings and has a modern vibe.

The Cartable (size 29) is the biggest regular Constance. It’s got loads of space, so it's better for work or travel when you need to carry more.

Limited editions pop up sometimes with rare leathers, colors, or hardware. You'll see exotics like alligator or lizard in these drops.

Availability is hit-or-miss with these alternatives. The Elan and Cartable are way less common than the standard 18 and 24.

Frequently Asked Questions

These questions about the Constance 18 versus 24 come up all the time with collectors and first-timers. Let's get into the real talk: what actually fits, how do they feel, and what happens to your wallet down the road?

What's the real deal when it comes to fitting your essentials in the Constance 18 versus the 24?

The Constance 18 takes care of the basics; phone, card wallet, lipstick, keys, maybe a compact. You won’t have to wrestle with it to fit the essentials, but don’t expect much extra space.

The Constance 24, though, gives you some breathing room. Toss in a small water bottle, sunglasses case, or an emergency snack without feeling like you’re playing a game of Tetris every time you reach inside.

Curious about comfort: Is there a noticeable difference when carrying the Constance 18 compared to the 24?

With both bags empty, you probably won’t notice any weight difference. The comfort really depends on how much you cram inside.

Wearing either crossbody feels pretty similar. The 18 usually rides a bit higher on the body, while the 24 sits lower and feels a touch more substantial at your hip.

When talking bucks and resale, does the Constance 18 or 24 hold its value better over time?

Both bags hold value well, but the 24 tends to attract more buyers on the resale market. That little bit of extra space just appeals to a wider crowd.

Of course, rare colors or special leathers can flip the script. A Constance 18 in some wild exotic skin might outshine a basic 24 at auction, never say never.

For those who love options, which Constance bag offers a wider array of colours and finishes?

The Constance 24 usually gets more color drops each year. Hermès makes more of them, so they experiment with shades and finishes a bit more.

You’ll find both sizes in exotics, but the 18 sometimes gets the cool, ultra-rare treatments first. Ombré lizard, wild alligator, those show up in the smaller size before the 24.

In the hunt for just the right size, how does the Constance 24 really measure up?

The Constance 24 is, well, 24 centimeters across the base. It’s about 15 centimeters high and 5 centimeters deep.

It’s a bag with presence, but it won’t swamp you. Most people in the 162-174 centimeter height range say the proportions just work; substantial, but not too much.

From boardroom to bistro, which Constance size is the ultimate go-to for versatility and style?

Honestly, the Constance 24 just fits into most routines. You can bring it to a meeting in the morning, then swing by a café later, and it never feels out of place.

If you’re leaning toward a more pared-back look, the 18 really nails that minimalist vibe. It’s the one you grab when you just need the basics and want your bag to blend in, not steal the show.