Ever since I got my Hermes Garden Party 30 last June many of you on Instagram have been requesting a review. After owning the bag for almost nine months and getting a feel for it I can finally do an authentic review of my Garden Party 30!
Bag Specs:
I have the Garden Party 30 (aka TPM – the bag measures 12″ x 8.5″ x 5″ ), in Negonda calfskin leather in Gold (a neutral, classic camel tone) with palladium-plated silver hardware and contrasting white stitching.
The bag has two snap closures on the sides which is extendable.
The inside of the bag has a chevron lining, one large compartment and a flat zippered compartment. It opens and closes with a snap button.
Unfortunately, there are no feet on the bottom of the bag.
About Negonda calfskin leather:
Negonda calfskin leather is sturdy and structured, however, over time it is prone to sagging. To hinder sagging I always keep it stuffed with the air paper bags it came with and so far I have no sagging at all.
What fits inside the Garden Party 30?
In the main compartment, I can easily fit a Louis Vuitton PM agenda, Ray-Ban Wayfarers with the case, Chanel small O Case with cosmetics and a Louis Vuitton Cles. The zippered compartment holds my iPhone 6S and a Chanel cardholder. I don’t carry much, so if I wanted to I could also fit a small book and an umbrella.
With all the items I would usually carry in my bag (excluding the umbrella and book) the bag is quite comfortable to carry around for more extended periods. However, if you tend to carry a bit more, it can get heavy after a while because the bag cannot be worn over the shoulder, which leads me to my next point.
How to wear the Garden Party 30?
The Garden Party 30 is designed to be worn on the crook of the arm or handheld. Therefore, if you plan on stuffing it to the max, it is going to be heavy and uncomfortable to carry on the crook of the arm or handheld. This is where I find the 36 to be well rounded and a better option if you prefer to carry your totes over the shoulder.
My thoughts on the Garden Party 30:
I think the Garden Party bags are very understatedly chic and a “good” price point for Hermes. It is also an excellent “starter” bag if you are new to the brand.
I chose the 30cm instead of the slightly larger 36cm Garden Party because I don’t carry much with me, and I wanted to have a small tote for summer trips and for the rare days when I need to fit a bit more than my Chanel medium flap can hold. Therefore, I would recommend the 30cm to someone that prefers smaller bags and doesn’t carry a lot (if you do then the 36 is a better option, because of the longer handles and the bigger size).
I hope you found this review helpful! Do you have a Garden Party or are thinking of getting one? I would love to read your comments.
Anonymous says
Hi Steffy, I cannot wait for my bag to arrive. Same size and same color! Thanks to you, my heart beats even faster waiting for it.
Natalie says
Steffy,
Thanks for doing the review. I currently have the same bag (color, size, and leather) on hold for me. I have heard how negonda leather can slouch over time but your bag looks like it’s holding its shape pretty week. How do you store your bag and if you have noticed any sagging over time? Would you still recommend negonda after having it for some time now? Thanks! Please do some OOTD with the bag!
Steffys Style says
Hi Natalie, I keep all my bags stuffed with plastic air bags in their dust bags in their boxes – many people on the purse forum have recommended not keeping bags in their boxes, but I have not had any problems with this method so far. Since I have had no issues with slouching thus far, I would definitely recommend negonda leather.
Dorette Oppong-Takyi says
I love your review on the garden party. Great job!!!
Steffys Style says
Thank you so much for dropping by my blog Dorette. I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
Denise says
Hi, Steffy, so good that you are back, and with a new layout! I loved this Garden Party 30 bag, the Nagonda leather is really good, although I also do like you, some bags need to be stuffed to keep the shape. I loved the color and it really can carry a lot of things! Loved your Chanel cardholder, too! By the way, again and again thanks for the amazing mascara, I really looove it! Hope you have a very lovely week!
DenisesPlanet.com
Anda says
Thank you for sharing the review. The bag is very elegant and simple . I think size 30 is the best size I also don’t tend to carry much with me and I totally love the color. The only downside is that you have to carry it on the crook of your arm and I am definitely more of a shoulder bag type as I love to be hands free .I haven’t tried any Hermes bags yet but I am thinking about the Kelly more and more . You have a great taste in bags and I love your style ❤