Hermès Birkin 35 Ghillies in Alezan Raffia and Barenia Leather
Satchel/Tote with a flared silhouette · Hermès (LVMH - Heritage Luxury). Designed under the artistic direction of Pierre-Alexis Dumas.
Collection: Limited Edition Ghillies Line within the Birkin family, originally introduced for Spring/Summer 2012.
Style
Satchel/Tote with a flared silhouette
Brand
Hermès (LVMH - Heritage Luxury). Designed under the artistic direction of Pierre-Alexis Dumas.
Material
Body is hand-woven Paname/Raffia-style natural textile. Accents are Fauve Barenia leather (a heritage calfskin known for self-healing properties). Iconic Ghillies broguing detail (serrated edges and perforations inspired by Scottish footwear).
Dimensions
Width: 35cm (13.75"); Height: 25cm (10"); Depth: 18cm (7"); Handle Drop: 10cm (4").
Description
A rare and whimsical iteration of the world's most famous handbag, the Ghillies Birkin 35 in Raffia represents a relaxed, Mediterranean approach to luxury. It combines traditional Scottish brogue aesthetics with summer materials, creating a textural masterpiece that is lighter and more casual than its all-leather counterparts while maintaining the iconic Birkin structure.
Key Features
Perforated leather trim (broguing), woven raffia body, saddle-stitched leather panels, and the absence of a standard inner lining to maintain a lightweight 'straw bag' feel.
Material & Construction
Body is hand-woven Paname/Raffia-style natural textile. Accents are Fauve Barenia leather (a heritage calfskin known for self-healing properties). Iconic Ghillies broguing detail (serrated edges and perforations inspired by Scottish footwear).
Color & Pattern
Alezan (warm camel brown) leather trim with a natural beige/straw raffia weave. The pattern features brogue perforations known as 'broguing' on the leather trim and handles.
Hardware Details
Permabrass or Gold-plated metal hardware. Includes iconic spindle swivel clasp, two keys, and a leather-encased padlock (clochette).
Interior Description
Lined in Chevre (goat) leather or Herringbone canvas depending on the specific seasonal run, usually one zip pocket and one slip pocket.
Closure Type
Flap closure with leather straps (sangles), secured by a swivel turn-lock spindle.
Strap & Handle Details
Double rolled top handles in Barenia leather with decorative serrated Ghillies stitching at the base.
Craftsmanship Details
Expert hand-stitching with linen thread; the integration of woven textile and leather requires advanced tensioning skills; perfect symmetry in the brogue perforations.
Authentication Indicators
Saddle-stitching (slanted/angled thread), hand-painted resin edges (pearling), heat-pressed 'Hermès Paris Made in France' stamp, and specific blind stamp location on the interior of the toggle strap.
Origin & Manufacturing
Handmade in France at an Hermès leather atelier by a single artisan.
Era & Period
2010s 'Limited Series' Era. The Ghillies Birkin was first previewed in 2011 and launched in 2012 as a decorative variation of the classic Birkin.
Age Estimate
Circa 2012-2015 production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the diversification of the Birkin from a 'work/travel' bag into a seasonal collector's item; highly sought after by collectors who favor the 'Quiet Luxury' summer aesthetic.
Condition Notes
Exterior raffia shows good shape retention; handles show minimal darkening (patina is natural for Barenia); hardware remains bright with faint hairline scratches; overall Excellent condition.
Value Estimate
Secondary market prices for Raffia Ghillies Birkins range from $22,000 to $35,000 depending on condition and market demand.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid heavy moisture which can soften the raffia; store in a cool, dry place stuffed with acid-free tissue; Barenia leather can be lightly buffed with a soft cloth to move natural oils over surface scratches.
Similar Handbags
Hermès Birkin 35 Cargo (Canvas), Hermès Picnic Birkin (Wicker/Osier), and the Loewe Puzzle in Raffia (contemporary alternative).
Interesting Facts
The 'Ghillies' line was created by Pierre Hardy, the head of Hermès jewelry and shoes, inspired by traditional Scottish Ghillie brogue shoes.