Hermes Kelly Pochette Handmade In Swift Calfskin Leather Silver Hardware 01 Blanc 9R Lime

Two colours on a small bag is a balancing act, and this one lands: a chalk-white body with lime worked through the finish, so the green reads as a signature rather than a stripe. In an iconic shape like the Kelly Pochette, the effect is crisp and modern instead of novelty.

The measurements are the familiar 22 by 12 by 7 cm, and Swift calfskin keeps the white from looking chalky. It has a soft, slightly glossy surface that reflects light rather than flattening it, and silver hardware supports the cooler palette. What it carries: a phone, a card wallet, keys, lipstick, and sunglasses if the frames are thin.

Now the honest part, because a white bag deserves it. It will show a smudge, a transfer from a new coat, a fingerprint after sunscreen. All of it comes off with a damp microfibre cloth and a little patience, but you have to be the kind of person who will actually do it. The lime is the same story: gorgeous in summer light, unforgiving of neglect in a bag that lives on the floor of a car.

Kept clean, it is the freshest thing in my summer rotation, at its best with linen, denim, tan leather sandals and very little else. If you are willing to baby a bag, this one repays the effort every time you pick it up. Mine has needed no more than a monthly wipe and a dry shelf.