Constance Élan & Cartable: Rarer Variants Worth Knowing

Check out our Hermès collection and Birkin bags!

Most Hermès fans know the classic Constance sizes, but two lesser-seen variants, the Élan and Cartable, deserve a closer look. These aren't just size tweaks. They're genuinely different takes on the Constance, each with its own design philosophy.

The Constance Élan brings a longer, more rectangular look at 25cm wide. The Cartable, now discontinued, was a roomier 29cm option until Hermès quietly pulled it from production. Both break away from the usual square shape, which makes them especially interesting for collectors who enjoy seeing how a classic can subtly evolve.

If you're hunting the secondary market or just hoping to spot something rare at your next Hermès appointment, knowing about these variants really matters. Their limited runs and unusual proportions have built up a loyal following among folks who want something just a little off the beaten path.

Key Takeaways

• The Élan has a rectangular 25cm shape, longer and slimmer than standard Constance bags
• The Cartable was discontinued at 29cm, now a coveted find on the resale market
• Both stand out with unique proportions, setting them apart from the classic square Constance

Spotlight On The Hermès Constance Élan

The Constance Élan reimagines the classic with a stretched silhouette and clutch-like vibe. It keeps the signature H closure that makes any Constance instantly recognizable, but it feels distinctly modern.

What Makes Constance Élan Unique

What sets the Élan apart? Its elongated rectangular shape at 25cm wide, it's longer and slimmer than the usual Constance. The result? A clutch-like aesthetic that feels fresh and contemporary. Whether you wear it crossbody or tuck it under your arm, it just looks different.

You still get the iconic H closure and adjustable strap. But the new proportions make the Élan pop, especially as an evening piece or a chic day bag.

Collectors who want something familiar but not quite the same tend to gravitate toward the Élan. It keeps the Constance DNA but brings a new twist to how it wears and looks.

Evolution From the Classic Constance

Hermès rolled out the Élan as an evolution of Catherine Chaillet's 1959 original. The classic Constance set the standard with its H closure and clean lines.

With the Élan, Hermès showed it could play with a winning formula without losing what made it great. The spring-loaded H buckle and adjustable strap remain, but the proportions shift.

Main differences? The stretched-out shape and a slightly more structured feel. The Élan leans a bit more formal than the everyday-friendly classic.

You can see Hermès understands that collectors love variations on a theme. The Élan feels new but still respects the original's spirit.

Design Features & Silhouette

The Élan measures 25cm x 14cm x 8cm, noticeably longer than the Constance 24. That horizontal emphasis changes how it sits and moves.

Inside, Hermès tweaked the compartments to fit the elongated shape. It's a nice touch, showing they didn't just stretch the outside and call it a day.

Hardware placement stays true to the Constance playbook. The H closure sits right in the middle, giving the bag balance even with the new proportions.

And the strap? Same system as the classic. Wear it crossbody, on your shoulder, or double it up for a shorter drop. The longer shape always creates interesting lines, no matter how you carry it.

Exploring Hermès Constance Cartable

The Constance Cartable stands out as one of the boldest, and now discontinued, members of the Constance family. At 29cm wide, it's both roomier and taller than its siblings, offering collectors a genuinely spacious alternative without losing the signature H clasp.

Overview of the Constance Cartable

As the largest Constance before it was discontinued, the Cartable gave you a lot more room than the standard 18cm and 24cm versions.

It kept all the classic Constance touches: the iconic H closure (in gold or palladium), and the familiar convertible leather strap. You could double it up on your shoulder or wear it long as a crossbody.

Specs:

• Width: 29cm
• Shape: Wider and taller than the usual Constance
• Hardware: Classic H clasp
• Strap: Convertible leather

The extra space made daily essentials much easier to carry. For anyone wanting a statement bag with real storage, the Cartable hit the mark.

Key Differences from Other Constance Bags

The Cartable's biggest distinction? Its size. That extra 5cm over the largest current Constance gives you a lot more usable space.

The shape feels more structured and formal, thanks to the increased height and width. It's still got the signature horizontal look, but it sits differently, more substantial, almost boxy.

Size comparison:

Inside, the Cartable usually offers better organization, with more pockets to take advantage of the larger format.

One thing to note: it's heavier. The extra leather and hardware add up, which you really feel if you carry it all day.

Collectability and Rarity

Since Hermès stopped making the Cartable, it's become one of the most sought-after Constance variants on the resale scene. You just don't see many pop up anymore.

Vintage Cartables from the '80s and '90s especially grab attention. Those often have the original back slip pocket, which Hermès later dropped.

What drives collectability:

• Production period: Short manufacturing window
• Condition: Good ones are getting harder to find
• Leather: Heritage box calfskin is a favorite
• Hardware: Original plating in top shape

Prices reflect the rarity. At auction or through resellers, Cartables can go for more than current production models, sometimes much more.

If you're buying vintage, authentication is a must. The long production history means more fakes out there, so expert verification is crucial for serious collectors.

Comparing the Élan and Cartable Variants

The Élan stretches out horizontally, while the Cartable grows vertically, totally different looks, both far from the classic Constance shape. Each one fits a different lifestyle and brings its own kind of exclusivity.

Size & Structure Comparison

The Constance Élan is 25cm x 14cm x 8cm. It's slim and long, giving you that East-West, clutch-like profile, but you still get crossbody wear.

The Constance Cartable is 29cm x 25cm x 8cm, wider and much taller. It's the biggest Constance out there.

Both versions keep the H clasp and adjustable strap. The Cartable is the storage king, while the Élan is all about sleek looks.

Usage and Styling

The Élan shines for evenings and pared-back day looks. Its horizontal shape hugs the body crossbody and doubles as a polished clutch for dressier moments.

The elongated silhouette pairs well with tailored outfits and minimal styling. It'll fit your phone, cards, lipstick, no bulk, just the essentials.

The Cartable is the workhorse. Its height fits bigger items, think notebooks or a tablet, that won't squeeze into other Constance sizes.

Perfect for work or anyone juggling a busy day and needing more room. The taller look works with both casual and business-casual outfits.

Market Availability

Tracking down either variant takes patience. The Élan has been discontinued and brought back in bursts, so it's rare in boutiques.

You'll mostly find Élans on the pre-owned market, or during special Hermès releases if you're lucky.

The Cartable is just as hard to find and seems to be discontinued nearly everywhere. When either variant does show up, prices are usually higher than for similar-sized classic Constances.

Pre-owned examples often command a premium because they're so scarce. If you're after one, it's wise to work closely with your sales associate, they almost never appear without a heads-up.

The World Of Hermès Constance Bags

The Constance line really shows off Hermès' craftsmanship, with its iconic H-clasp and versatile crossbody design. Discontinued sizes like the 23 and 25 have become collector favorites, right alongside the luxe leathers from Epsom to exotic skins.

Signature Features of the Constance Line

The Constance's most recognizable detail is that perforated H-clasp. It is both the closure and the defining design element. Nothing else in the Hermès lineup looks quite like it.

The bag's structured, rectangular silhouette holds its shape beautifully, even after years of use. The long leather strap lets you switch between shoulder and crossbody wear, which is surprisingly handy for such a refined piece.

Key design elements:

• Perforated H-clasp in matching or contrasting metal
• Adjustable leather strap (shorten or lengthen as you like)
• Clean lines, minimal external details
• Single front compartment with interior organization

The Constance Élan is the only rectangular variant in the family, breaking from the usual square proportions but keeping things just as sophisticated.

Discontinued and Rare Sizes

Hermès has retired several Constance sizes over the years, and those discontinued models are now hot tickets for collectors. The Constance 23, 25, and original 29 are all out of production, which drives up their value.

Current sizes include the Micro 14, Mini 18, and the standard 24. The Micro 14 is tiny, just 5.5" x 4.5" x 1", great for evenings or when you want to travel light.

Size breakdown:

The Cartable 29 is a bit of an outlier. It is discontinued, but so rarely that it's basically legendary.

Leather and Hardware Choices

Hermès offers the Constance in a huge range of leathers, from everyday picks to the wildest exotics. Epsom leather is the go-to for most, it's tough and shrugs off scratches.

Swift leather feels softer, and Evercolor brings rich, saturated color. If you like texture, Chèvre has gorgeous grain.

Exotic choices:

• Matte alligator (top of the line)
• Shiny alligator
• Lizard
• Ombré lizard (with a gradient effect)

Hardware comes in palladium, gold, and rose gold. Your choice totally changes the vibe, palladium feels modern, gold is pure classic.

Every so often, Hermès drops special editions with brushed or matte hardware, or even unique perforated patterns beyond the usual H-clasp.

Notable Colourways

Hermès keeps churning out new Constance colors every season, but some shades have become true icons. Noir (black) is as versatile as it gets and always in demand.

Étoupe (a taupe-grey) is quietly elegant, and Gold brings warmth and richness. These three always fetch strong resale prices.

Other favorites:

• Rouge H (that signature Hermès red)
• Bleu Nuit (deep navy)
• Vert Cypress (forest green)
• Rose Sakura (soft pink)

Limited editions often pair unique colors with special hardware. Bleu Electrique with rose gold? Stunning. Jaune Ambre with palladium? Equally eye-catching.

Exotics usually stick to classic colors. Matte alligator Constances tend to show up in Noir, Étoupe, or earthy browns that highlight the skin's texture.

Rarity, Investment, and Resale Value

The Constance Élan and Cartable both fetch premium prices thanks to their scarcity and unique proportions. These versions often appreciate faster than standard Constances, especially special editions that collectors go wild for.

Limited Releases and Special Editions

Hermès treats the Constance Élan and Cartable more like special appearances than mainstays. Production runs are much smaller than the standard Constance 18 and 24.

The Constance Élan pops up now and then in boutiques, usually tied to a seasonal drop or a splashy event. From what we've seen, it's easier to spot in exotic leathers, think crocodile or lizard, than in the usual options.

Cartable releases? Even scarcer. This style tends to show up with wild color pairings or special hardware finishes you won't see on other Constance bags.

Special edition details to look for:

• Enamel hardware in seasonal shades
• Rose gold or brushed palladium
• Unusual leather pairings
• Anniversary or boutique opening editions

These features can bump resale prices by 30-50% over the regular versions. Rarity drives people to pay above retail, even for bags that are basically untouched.

Current Market Trends

Resale prices for both variants have climbed since 2020. The Constance bag market as a whole is strong, but these rare editions outpace the regular sizes.

Market notes right now:

• Élan bags fetch 15-25% over standard Constance
• Cartable bags see 20-30% premiums
• Exotic leathers jump to 2-3x retail
• Mint condition pieces often top their original price

The Élan's crossbody-or-clutch flexibility seems to catch the eye of younger luxury buyers. That shift has definitely pushed up prices, especially for Élans in modern colors.

Cartable bags are a magnet for collectors. Their briefcase-inspired shape fills a gap the regular Constance just can't.

Resale platforms move these bags quickly, demand keeps outstripping supply.

Tips for Finding Rarer Variants

Getting to know Hermès sales associates is still the best way in. Let them know you're after Élan or Cartable styles specifically when you visit.

Some moves that help:

• Keep a purchase record across a few Hermès categories
• Check out boutiques in different cities or even countries
• Show up for trunk shows and events
• Scan authenticated resale sites regularly

The pre-owned market gives faster access but, honestly, you’ll need patience for particular combos. Set alerts on places like Fashionphile or Rebag for the specs you want.

Timing is everything. Élan bags tend to show up around resort collections, while Cartable variants might drop with men's lines since they look more structured.

If you're flexible on color, consider exotic leathers, they pop up more than classic ones, though they cost much more.

Hermès Constance Élan & Cartable Versus Iconic Alternatives

The Élan and Cartable go up against heavy hitters like the Kelly and Birkin. Let's compare their size, practicality, and investment potential, because, let's be honest, that's what we're all weighing.

Hermès Kelly and Birkin Versus Constance Élan

The Constance Élan is 25cm long, with a slim, clutchy vibe. It's actually smaller than a Kelly 25 or Birkin 25, which measure 25cm wide but are much deeper.

Capacity is a big differentiator here. The Élan fits your phone, a small wallet, keys, and lipstick. The Kelly and Birkin? You could toss in a tablet, a book, and a makeup bag without blinking.

The Élan's adjustable strap lets you go crossbody, something Kellys don't really do. Birkins? No shoulder strap at all.

Investment-wise, Kelly and Birkin bags have the edge. They're quota bags and usually hold their value better.

Frequently Asked Questions

These rare Hermès bags always spark curiosity about their quirks, history, and why collectors chase them. The Élan's rectangle shape and the now-discontinued Cartable's roomy build each bring their own kind of allure.

What unique features set the Constance Élan apart in the Hermès collection?

The Constance Élan stands out with its sleek, stretched silhouette. At 25cm, it’s more rectangular and clutch-like than the usual square-ish Constance.

That makes it great for evenings or anytime you want something a little sleeker. You still get the iconic H clasp, just on a longer, more horizontal canvas.

It wears differently, too. The slim profile sits closer to the body, almost like a chic envelope when you sling it crossbody. Minimalist, but not boring.

How do Hermès Cartable editions differ from the classic Constance in terms of design and exclusivity?

The Cartable was basically the 29cm Constance before Hermès pulled it from production. With more width and height than the standard 24, it’s just more useful for daily life.

What sets the Cartable apart is its small-briefcase feel. You could actually fit bigger things, no need to play Tetris every time you pack.

Now that it’s discontinued, finding a Cartable on resale feels like a real hunt. That scarcity has made it a favorite for collectors who want both function and bragging rights.

Could you share some insider tips on spotting a rare Hermès variant that could be the crown jewel of a collection?

First, watch for discontinued sizes, anything labeled 23, 25, or 29cm in the Constance line is rare by default. They show up on resale now and then, but expect to pay a premium.

Unusual leathers or limited editions are also gold. Lizard, alligator, or other exotics on a Constance? Those are the ones that tend to go up in value.

Always check year stamps and hardware. Some years had slightly different shapes or finishes that make them extra collectible. Honestly, details matter at Hermès.

What's the backstory behind the introduction of the Hermès Constance Élan, and how has it evolved?

The Élan was Hermès’ answer for folks wanting something between a clutch and a regular handbag. It kept the Constance look, just in a shape that worked better for evenings or minimalist outfits.

Unlike some Hermès experiments that take ages, the Élan felt like an easy next step. They just stretched the classic Constance formula and made it new.

The bag’s stuck to its rectangular roots since launch, though you’ll see it in different leathers and colors each season. It’s still not always counted as a quota bag, so buyers have a bit more wiggle room.

How does one care for and maintain these prized Hermès pieces to ensure they remain heirloom-worthy?

Keep your Constance bags in their dust bags, stuffed with tissue to hold their shape. Store them away from sunlight and humidity, those can really mess with the leather.

For upkeep, wipe the bag gently with a soft, dry cloth. Don’t get it wet, and skip household cleaners unless they’re made for luxury leather.

The H clasp could use a little attention, too. Keep it clean and dry, and don’t force it if it’s stiff. Usually, gentle handling fixes it, but if it stays sticky, let Hermès take a look.

Are there any under-the-radar Hermès releases or variants akin to Constance Élan & Cartable that aficionados should keep an eye on?

The Constance To Go wallet really deserves a second look from collectors. Picture a Constance, but as a wallet, with a removable strap that actually makes it way more versatile than most folks realize.

You might want to watch for the Constance 1-24. It's basically a slimmer take on the classic 24, with just one gusset instead of two. That tweak makes it noticeably rarer, and who knows, maybe it'll end up more valuable down the road.

Every now and then, Constance belt bags pop up. They're not easy to find, definitely not something you'll see everywhere, but they add a unique touch to any Hermès-focused collection.