The Hermès Constance bag was created by the House’s designer, Catherine Chaillet, in 1969. The bag is intended for women who prefer a geometric shape of accessories, but at the same time love practicality and functionality.
The model received the name “Constance” in memory of a very touching story. In 1967 Jean-Louis Dumas, owner of Hermès, asked Catherine Chaillet to design a new bag. At the time, Shaye was pregnant with her fifth child, daughter Constance, whom she gave birth to at the same time her first Constance bag was released.
There is also a second, unofficial name – O-bag, from the surname “Onassis”. One of the most stylish women of the 20th century, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, loved Constance bags.
In the world of luxury accessories, few bags have earned the lasting admiration of fashion enthusiasts like the Hermès Constance bag. Created in 1969 by the House’s talented designer, Catherine Chaillet, the Constance bag has become a timeless classic, celebrated for its geometric design and remarkable functionality. Designed for women who appreciate both form and function, the Constance is the perfect blend of structured elegance and practicality.
The bag’s iconic H-shaped clasp is instantly recognizable, symbolizing Hermès’ signature attention to detail and craftsmanship. The clean, geometric lines make it a perfect accessory for those who love accessories with a refined, minimalist shape but refuse to compromise on practicality. The Constance bag, available in a range of materials and colors, can easily transition from a daytime staple to an evening statement piece.
The story behind the Constance bag is just as touching as its design. In 1967, Jean-Louis Dumas, the owner of Hermès, asked Catherine Chaillet to design a new handbag that would embody the spirit of the House’s luxurious yet functional philosophy. At the time, Chaillet was pregnant with her fifth child, a daughter named Constance. When Chaillet gave birth to her daughter, the first Constance bag was released—a fitting tribute to both her new life and the iconic design she had created. The bag was named “Constance” in honor of this special moment, a heartfelt connection between mother and child.
While the official name of the bag remains “Constance,” it also earned a second, unofficial nickname—O-bag, named after the famous surname of one of its most loyal admirers: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. One of the most stylish and beloved women of the 20th century, Jackie Kennedy Onassis was known for her impeccable fashion sense and sophisticated style, and she often carried Constance bags. Her association with the bag only added to its allure, solidifying its place in fashion history as a true symbol of elegance and refinement.
What makes the Constance so enduring is its versatility. It can be dressed up or down, worn casually with jeans or paired with a stunning evening gown. Whether it’s the leather version, the exotic skins, or the signature colors, the Constance adapts to any wardrobe and continues to be a sought-after item for fashion lovers and collectors worldwide. Its unique combination of sleek design and day-to-day practicality has allowed the Constance bag to stand the test of time, transcending fashion trends to become an enduring icon of luxury.
