PHOTO COURTESY OF HERMÈS
The unwavering elegance of Hermès once experienced a delightful shake-up with the arrival of Jean-Paul Gaultier. Celebrated for audacious designs and theatrical flair, Gaultier’s appointment as Hermès’ creative director in 2003 was a surprising yet refreshing jolt, akin to a mischievous jester gracing a royal court.
While his tenure was brief, Gaultier’s impact was undeniable. He left an indelible mark by injecting a touch of whimsy into the Parisian brand’s DNA. Iconic Hermès bags like the Shoulder Birkin and the Kelly Cut, for example, are testament to his influence. And today’s spotlight falls onto another of his enduring creations, the Jypsiere.
01 - Debuting in 2008, the Jypsiere quickly become a coveted classic thanks to its timeless silhouette. Dubbed the crossbody Birkin, it blends signature Hermès codes with a contemporary hunting bag aesthetic. This results in a delightful hands-free companion for everyday adventures.
02 - The bag masterfully blends classical elegance with a touch of casual cool. Its structured silhouette draws inspiration from the classic saddlebag, a subtle nod to Hermès’ equestrian heritage. The functional flap and forever-iconic Kelly turn clasp only serve to emphasise this further.
03 - Despite its structured base, a touch of subversion emerges through the slightly relaxed body achieved by a gusseted construction. This unexpected interplay fosters a delightful duality, making the Jypsiere a contemporary offering that feels surprisingly easy-going.
04 - The bag’s meticulously divided interior also contains a zip pocket that dedicates itself to holding essentials. It ensures your phone and cardholder not only stay secure but also readily accessible. This thoughtful organisation designates a spot for effortless retrieval of every item.
05 - Today, the Jypsiere comes in various sizes that cater to different needs. For example, the newest addition to the line-up is the Jypsiere Mini, which is available in colours like Bleu France, Étoupe and Jaune de Naples. The next size up is the Jypsiere 28, then progressively larger with sizes 31, 34 and 37.
06 - Adjustable and removable leather straps, complete with a padded shoulder support, accompany the larger sizes. This ensures comfortable carrying throughout the day. Bucking the trend, the Mini Jypsiere features fixed canvas straps, thus offering a lightweight and comfortable option.
07 - Love options? Then you’ll be glad to know that the Jypsiere family offers plenty. Besides size options, the leather choices include the buttery-soft Swift, richly textured Togo, as well as the vibrant Evercolor.
08 - As for the hardware, you can also pick from gleaming gold, cool palladium and warm rose gold finishes. No matter which you prefer, each piece is meticulously crafted with a Hermès silversmith’s precision.
09 - Unlike some Hermès offerings, such as the unlined Evelyne and Picotin, the Jypsiere boasts a full-grain leather construction that extends throughout its interior. This meticulous attention to detail translates to a sumptuous feel and unparalleled durability.
10 - Of course, the make also contributes to the bag’s higher position on the price chart within the Hermès collection. In Singapore, prices start from SGD11,900 for the Mini Jypsiere.
