For Hermès, what began as a maker of leather equestrian goods for European noblemen would eventually grow into one of the most storied fashion labels in the world. In 1837, German-born French entrepreneur Thierry Hermès opened a saddle and harness purveyor in Paris. Gradually, the house extended into accessories and luggage for its riders, and today, in paying homage to its origins, the family-run luxury brand resurfaces horse motifs in everything from clothing and modernist jewelry to pillows and handbags.
The first top-handled bag ever produced by Hermès was the Haut à courroies, which made its debut in 1892. A tall bag secured with a folded leather flap (fastened with bridle-inspired straps), it was designed to transport riding boots and a harness.
As the world made the switch from horse to automobile, the bag adapted, becoming a multifunctional travel satchel instead of a designated saddlebag. Today, 120 years later, the HAC remains in Hermès’s line — and its distinctive flap and clasping straps have laid the groundwork for some of the house’s other iconic bags.
In the 1930s, Robert Dumas (son-in-law to Émile-Maurice Hermès, Thierry’s grandson) designed a smaller, trapezoidal take on the flap bag with a handle and two side straps. Later, actress Grace Kelly, then engaged to Prince Rainier of Monaco, is said to have used one of these bags to conceal her pregnancy during the 1950s. Because she was photographed constantly, the coverage catapulted her handbag to international popularity.
In 1977, Hermès officially renamed the model for her, and the Kelly bag was born. Each Kelly bag takes between 18 and 25 hours to produce, and its 680 hand stitches owe solely to one Hermès artisan.
Robert Dumas was also responsible for another one of the brand’s most iconic offerings: the launch of its first silk scarf on the occasion of Hermès’s 100th anniversary in 1937. Based on a woodblock designed by Dumas and printed on Chinese silk, the accessory was an immediate hit.
Today, vintage Hermès scarves, typically adorned in rich colors and elaborate patterns, serve many functions, just as they did back then. Well-heeled women wear it on their heads, around their necks and, in a genius piece of cross-promotion, tied to the straps of their Hermès bags. Kelly even once used one as a sling for her broken arm.
In 1981, Robert Dumas’s son Jean-Louis Dumas, then Hermès chairman, found himself sitting next to French actress and musician Jane Birkin on a plane, where she was complaining about finding a suitable carryall for the necessary accoutrements of motherhood. After the two travelers were properly introduced, Birkin helped design Jean-Louis’s most famous contribution to the Hermès canon: the Birkin bag, a roomy, square catchall with the HAC’s trademark leather flap top and the addition of a lock and key.
Owing to the brand’s legendary commitment to deft, handcrafted construction, the Birkin is an investment that is coveted by collectors everywhere.
While the Kelly and Birkin may be standouts, gracing the arms of everyone from royal heiresses to hip-hop stars in the past few decades, the handbags are but a small part of Hermès’s fashion offerings.
Since the 1920s, the brand has produced some of the most desirable leather goods in the world. There’s the Constance bag, a favorite of Jacqueline Kennedy, the recently relaunched 1970s-era Evelyne and, on the vintage market, a slew of designs dating back to the 1920s.
Good design never goes out of style. Find a variety of vintage Hermès handbags, day dresses, shoes and more on 1stDibs.
Hermès Silk Scarf Fleurs et Papillons de Tissus C. Henry Gavroche
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Poetic and Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "Fleurs et Papillons de Tissus" ("Fabric Flowers and Butterflies") Absolutely gorgeous butterflies and flowers in magnificent colors...
Hermès Silk Scarf Tea Time Jonathan Burton Hearts Valentine's Day
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "TEA TIME" Designed by Jonathan Burton Made in France Made of 100% twill silk Colorway 08: ORANGE / GRIS / BLANC (orange, grey, white) Lov...
Hermès Giant Silk Shawl Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Vintage Shawl Photos does not make justice to this extremely rare and lovely scarf Print: Oriental Drawings Colorways are so bright ! It is an...
HERMES black grained leather CAP Hat 57
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier cap is crafted in black grained calfskin leather. It features a relaxed, slouchy crown paired with a structured visor for a chic, mod...
$3,013
HERMÈS scarf PÉKINOIS
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
Hermès twill silk scarf PÉKINOIS Very rare Designed by Xavier De Poret 1965 100% silk Hand rolled hem Made in France Pink, grey, ivory Measures approx. cm. 90 x 90 - 36" x 36" Ve...
HERMES taupe leather & cashmere Shawl Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès by Martin Margiela reversible shawl in khaki green lambskin leather and cashmere. Features an effortless, fluid silhouette with an open front, softly rounded sh...
Hermès Scarf Jardin Enchanté Celebrating 150 Years of Central Park 2003
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare and Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "JARDIN ENCHANTE" (enchanted garden) Special and Limited Edition "Celebrating 150 years of Central Park 2003" Designed by ...
Hermès Silk Scarf Noel au 24 Faubourg Christmas Snow Ball Orange
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Scarf Absolutely gorgeous, worn or framed, perfect for the holiday season. Print: "Noël au 24 Faubourg" Pattern: Hermès store of the 24 Faubourg Paris F...
HERMÈS scarf Soleil de soie
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
Hermès twill silk scarf Soleil de soie Designed by Cathy Latham 1995 100% silk Copyright Hand rolled hem Tag care Made in France Green blu ivory yellow Measures approx. cm. 90 x 90 ...
HERMÈS scarf PASSIFLORES
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
Hermès twill silk scarf PASSIFLORES Designed by Valerie Dawlat 1996 100% silk Copyright Hand rolled hem Tag care Made in France Approx. cm. 90 x 90 - 36" x 36" Peach green multicolo...
Auth. HErmes Scarf Chevaloscope – Blanc Bleu Multicolore – NEw Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Chevaloscope – Blanc Bleu Multicolore – NWST – 2505081635 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Artist: Elias Kafouros Size: 90 cm x 90 cm / 35 in x 35 in Color: Blanc (Whit...
Hermès Long Ghillies Gloves Leather Silk Size 7
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous and Elegant Authentic Hermès Gloves The top beautifully adorned with a band decorated with holes and nicely cut on the edge in the ghillies style Made in France Made of s...
Hermès Silk Scarf Rêverie Solitaire Florence Manlik 90 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "REVERIE SOLITAIRE" (solitary reverie) Designed by Florence Manlik Made in France Made of 100% Silk Colorway 06: BLANC / ORANGE / SOLEIL (w...
HERMÈS scarf HEMISPHÆRIUM COELI BOREALE
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
Hermès twill silk scarf Hemisphærium Coeli Boreale Designed by Loïc Dubigeon 1998 100% silk Copyright Hand rolled hem No Tag care Made in France Orange white silver red Approx. cm....
HERMÈS scarf A VOS CRAYONS
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
Hermès twill silk scarf A VOS CRAYONS Designed by Leigh P. Cooke 2004 - 2008 100% silk Copyright Hand rolled hem Tag care Made in France Dark blue multicolor Measures approx. cm. 9...
Hermes 'Le Sacre du Printemps' Spring Pink & White Silk Scarf, 1986
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
“Add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe with the Hermes 1986 'Le Sacre du Printemps' Spring Pink & White Silk Scarf. Crafted from high-quality silk with hand rolled edges, this scarf...
HERMÈS scarf TIBET
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
Hermès twill silk scarf TIBET Designed by Cathy Latham 1999 100% silk Copyright Hand rolled hem Tag care Made in France Dark brown orange red green blue Measures approx. cm. 90 x...
HERMES Etoupe & black leather 32MM CLASSIC H REVERSIBLE Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Classic H 32mm reversible belt offers exceptional versatility with its dual-sided design in Etoupe Togo leather on one side and black Box leather on the ot...
Hermès Silk Scarf Twilly Au Bloc Liste Vernie 88 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "Twilly Au Bloc Liste Vernie" Some small red squares on the border are decorated with clear varnish, which bring a lot of light and pretty r...
Hermes "Astrologie Forever" Blue Horoscope Print Silk Twill Scarf, 1990s
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Hermes 1990's "Astrologie Forever" horoscope scarf features a print by F. Faconnet on silk twill with hand rolled edges. Astrology themed, this scarf is perfect for any occasion...
Hermès 2025 Chale Maxi Triangle Robe Legere Cashmere Silk Scarf Shawl Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Maxi Triangle scarf/shawl in cashmere (70%) and silk, featuring the Robe Légère print by Théo de Gueltzl in shades of orange on an ecru background, with hand-rolled orange edg...
Hermès 2003 Foulard Carré 90 Rocailles II Beige Silk Twill Scarf Carre Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès square scarf, size 90, in silk twill, Rocailles II pattern (detail) by Valérie Dawlat Dumoulin, a one-off design produced only once in 2003, in pastel ecru tones on a beige ba...
Exceptional Hermès Vintage Silk Scarf Les Edifices de Paris 1806 Grygkar RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare opportunity to get this stunning authentic Hermès scarf Print: "Les Edifices de Paris 1806" Designed by Hugo Grygkar in 1957, never reissued Made in France Made of 100% Sil...
HERMES black cashmere FUNKY LEATHER TRIM FEDORA Hat 58
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Funky fedora hat in black cashmere (100%) featuring a tonal deerskin band and a subtly quilted brim that adds structure and modern edge. Finished with an acetat...
Hermès La Mare aux Canards Silk Scarf Duck Christiane Vauzelles 90 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Scarf The colors are stunning. The most beautiful I have seen on a Hermès scarf. The photos don't do this amazing scarf justice. The colors are ...
Hermès Scarf Shawl AAAAARGH! T-Rex Dinosaur Shirley Cashmere 100 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Impressive and Stunning Authentic Hermès Shawl Print: "AAAAARGH !" Pattern: T-Rex Dinosaur head This shawl is a part of a collection of wild animals designed by Alice Shirley Fro...
Hermès Tan Alligator Belt with Gold Constance Belt Buckle, 1980s
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Classic Constance 'H' logo belt buckle in yellow gold plated metal 38mm. Leather strap in a tan, glossy Mississippiensis alligator leather. Constance buckle shows light surface scrat...
Hermès Silla De Gaucho Embroidered Silk Scarf Limited Edition 86 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
No words to describe the beauty of this amazing authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "SILLA DE GAUCHO" Pattern: gaucho saddle Designed by Antonio Carrau This scarf is a limited edition ...
Vintage 1950s Hermes Couture Brown Suede Elbow Gloves
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Vintage 1950s Hermès brown suede gloves, made in France during the post-war couture period. This piece exemplifies the refined elegance of mid-century fashion, characterized by elong...
Hermes L Hiver by Philippe Ledoux Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf « L’Hiver » by Philippe Ledoux featuring a deep red border and an Hermès signature. 100% silk. Circa 1970 In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in. (90cm...
Faune et Flore du Texas Forever Scarf 90 NEW 2025
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Faune et Flore du Texas forever scarf 90 cm Jaune Vif / Bleu Azur / Multicolore Last piece ,sold out. New with tags and box. Final sale
Hermès La Bonne Fortune Françoise Heron Silk Scarf 1968 35'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "La Bonne Fortune" (Good fortune, in terms of Gallantry, is said of the favors of a woman) Designed by Françoise Héron, only one issue...
Hermès 1986 Foulard Carré 90 Soie Chasse a vol Grey Ecru Silk Twill Scarf Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès square scarf, size 90, in silk twill, "Chasse à Vol" (Hunting in Flight) motif by Henri de Linares, first produced in 1982, reissued in 1986 and 1989. The motif is in shades o...
Hermès Belt Buckle Elephants in Golden Metal for 32 mm Belt
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful and Rare Authentic Hermès Belt Buckle In shape of 2 elephants Made of Golden Metal "HERMÈS" engraved at back For 32 mm belt (1,26 inches) Measurements: - 9 cm at long...
Hermes Silk Scarf 90CM CA DECOIFFE CV/MARINE/CREME/VERT NEW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Scarf 90 CM Description on tags : CV/MARINE/CREME/VERT NEW with tags and box.Please note:colors in person might look slightly different due to camera flashlight Made in Franc...
Hermès Wedgwood Ledoux Vintage Silk Scarf 35'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "WEDGWOOD" Designed by Philippe LEDOUX in 1974 Made in France Made of 100% Silk Colorways: White, Blue, Yellow "HERMÈS - PARIS ©" Signe...
Lovely Hermès Silk Scarf Fleurs et Papillons de Tissus C. Henry White 35'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Poetic Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "Fleurs et Papillons de Tissus" ("Fabric Flowers and Butterflies") Designed by Christine Henry in ...
HERMES black MATTE CROCODILE 32MM H GUILLOCHE Buckle Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès 32mm belt is crafted from black matte alligator crocodile leather and finished with the iconic H Guilloché buckle in pallad...
Hermès Sangles Zig Zag à Pois Rainbow Chiffon Silk Scarf Plumetis Jamin 60 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely and Rare Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: “Sangles en Zig Zag" à Pois Rainbow Designed by Virginie Jamin and firstly issued in 2017, this plumetis is from 2022 Made in France ...
Beautiful Hermès Shawl Jeux de Paille Birds Cashmere and Silk Red 138 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Shawl Print: "JEUX DE PAILLE" (straw games) Pattern: Birds, Butterflies, Flowers Designed by Françoise de la Perrière in 1984 Made in France Made of 65% ...
Hermès 1992 Foulard Carré 90 Le Geographe Black Damask Silk Scarf Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès square scarf 90 titled Le Géographe by Sandra Laroche (published in 1992, reissued in 1995) on a black background, in addition to the pattern, the silk is embroidered with anc...
HERMES Gold Togo Marron Fonce Box REVERSIBLE 32MM H Buckle Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès 32mm reversible belt in Gold (camel) Veau Togo leather and Marron Foncé (dark brown) Veau Box leather showcases timeless versatility. Finished with a class...
Hermès Helsinki Women Gloves in Cashmere and Leather Size 6, 5
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Gloves "HELSINKI BI POLAIRE" Made of Cashmere and Calfskin Leather, lined with Silk Colorways: Craie (Chalk) / Caramel Strap around the wrist to be fixe...
HERMES white & black leather 32MM REVERSIBLE H Buckle Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès 32mm reversible belt in Blanc (white) Veau Epsom leather and Noir (black) Veau Swift leather showcases timeless versatility. Finished with a classic H buck...
Hermès 2011 Ceinture T80 Klein Blue Leather Collier de Chien 50 Belt 32in Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès dog collar belt (or Médor belt for those in the know ;-) 50mm wide in slightly grained Epsom leather in blue and silver-tone metal (palladium)...
Hermès Brides de Gala Knit Muffler Scarf Cashmere
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "Brides de Gala" Generous size and material for an immediate warming effect guaranteed Made in Great Britain Made of 100% cashme...
HERMES Fauve brown Barenia leather ETRIVIERE 42 Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier Etrivière 42mm belt is crafted in Fauve (cognac brown) Barenia calfskin leather with contrasting white saddle stitching. Finished wit...
Hermès New Lazy Leopardess Orange Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new Lazy Leopardess silk scarf . Orange color way. Hand rolled edges. Comes with original box.
Hermes Paris Women's Constance Silver Buckle Ivory Leather Italian Loafers 1990s
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Paris Women's Constance brushed silver buckle bone leather Italian loafers Size 38 The bone color leather loafers are adorned with Hermes' ic...
HERMES Miel brown SHINY CROCODILE 32MM H Buckle Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès 32mm belt is crafted from Miel (honey brown) shiny alligator crocodile leather and finished with the iconic H buckle in bru...
Hermès Silk Scarf Flamingo Party Bourthoumieux 90 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Please notice: the green is actually lighter than the photos Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "Flamingo Party" Designed by Laurence ...
$5,424Sale Price|25% Off
Hermès Shawl Scarf Brides De Gala Precious Embroidered Cashmere Silk 140 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Shawl Print: "Brides de Gala" This amazing shawl, hand-beaded with grey and shiny pearls and silver-tone “Clou de Selle” pastille, asked h...
Hermès Silk Scarf Hilton McConnico Souvenirs de Paris 35 inches
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Pattern: "Souvenirs de Paris" Designed by Joseph Hilton McConnico in 1989 Made in France Made of 100% Silk Colo...
HERMES Fauve brown Barenia leather COLLIER DE CHIEN 50 SHAWOD Belt 90
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier Collier de Chien 50 Shadow belt is crafted in Fauve (cognac) Veau Barenia leather with contrasting white topstitching. A rare runway ...
Hermes Paris Black Wool Leather Trim Hat Labeled Motsch Chapeaux Pour Hermes
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Paris Black felt wool leather trim hat labeled Motsch Chapeaux Pour Hermes Size 56 Small The stylish black felt wool hat is juxtaposed with brown leather border trim Makes ...
Hermès Long Opera Gloves Burgundy Lambskin Leather Size 6.5 in Box
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Stunning and so elegant Authentic Hermès Gloves Made in France Made of Lambskin Leather Decorated with small silver balls, grouped by 4 Colorway: Burgundy, Silver-Tone Lined wi...
$382Sale Price|25% Off
Hermes "Vive le Vent" Silk Twill Scarf 1992. 35" square or 90cm square
By Hermès, Laurence Bourthoumieux
Located in Port Hope, ON
"Vive le Vent" is a silk twill scarf part of the 1992 collection designed by Laurence Toutsy Bourthoumieux Thioune, most commonly known as L Thioune, and signed as such on this scarf...
New Hermes Blue Giraffe Silk Gavroche Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès blue and brown giraffe silk gavroche scarf. Hand-rolled edges. New in box.
Hermès "Les Tambours" Green Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Vintage Hermès "Les Tambours" silk scarf designed by Joachim Metz, 1989. Made from 100% silk with hand rolled edges.
HERMES Marron Fonce Courchevel leather 1995 CONSTANCE 40 Belt 70
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic vintage Hermès Constance waist belt is crafted from Courchevel leather in Marron Fonce (brown) and finished with the iconic gold-plated “H” buckle. A timeless Her...
Epsom is a stamped or embossed calf leather (as opposed to being a grained leather like Togo or Clemence, or a smooth leather like Swift or Box). It is lightweight and stiff; thus Epsom is known for its ability to retain structure over time. Epsom is the primary leather used to make Sellier Kelly and Birkin bags which feature outside stitching on its edges which result in a crisp and sharp line. Epsom is more rain-resistant than other calf leathers.
Hermes bags have blindstamps, placed under the plaques or on the interior. Usually they are placed close to the date stamps denoting the year of production. Recently, in a small % of receipts, the blind stamp is also printed on the store receipt which can be matched to the blind stamp inside the bag.
It is virtually impossible to walk into an Hermes store as a new customer and be offered a Birkin for purchase. Most Birkins are offered to loyal clients who have established a purchase history at a particular store and with a particular sales associate who may take note of your Birkin or Kelly wish.