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 Cream & Yellow Wool & Cashmere Coat
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
The luxest ever Hermes cream and yellow coat. Bought for £7500 and worn once. Made from smooth cream wool and 7% cashmere with super soft, slightly fluffy egg yolk yellow cashmere i...
Hermès Cashmere New Libris Poncho by Sandy Queudrus in Kraft Color
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
This authentic Hermès Kraft Cashmere New Libris Poncho, designed by Sandy Queudrus, is crafted from soft cashmere in a warm caramel-kraft tone. The oversized square silhouette drapes...
Burgundy silk Robe with striped pattern HERMES
By Hermès
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Burgundy silk Robe with striped pattern.Belt and belt loop. Pocket on both side + one on the bust. SIZE XL
Hermès 2006 Veste Cardigan FR38 Jean Paul Gaultier Maxi Jacket Cardigan UK10 US6
By Jean Paul Gaultier, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès jacket from the Fall/Winter 2006 collection by Jean Paul Gaultier; a long cardigan in a thick, ecru wool knit featuring a Nordic jacquard pattern in shades of brown, gray, and...
Exceptional Hermès Spats Mini Chaps Brown Suede Leather
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Spats Made of suede leather and silver-tone buckles Inside is lined with brown leather Colorway: Brown Please note: The color variations com...
Hermès Échec au Roi Reversible Leather Bomber Jacket Beige Blue NWOT
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Reversible Leather Bomber Hermes Jacket - Échec au Roi - Beige Blue - NWOT - 2609071721 Brand: Hermès Item Type: Reversible Leather Bomber Jacket Name Design: Échec au Roi Artist (M...
HERMES mauve purple suede 2022 Slingback Flats Shoes 38.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès 2022 suede slingback ballet flat in mauve is a refined expression of understated elegance and modern femininity. Crafted from soft suede in a sophisticated...
$1,775Sale Price|28% Off
Hermes Men's Buttery Soft Black Lambskin Leather Unisex Coat Size 54 c 21st c
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Men's buttery soft black lambskin leather unisex coat French Size 54 The luxurious coat is constructed with smooth very soft black lambskin leather Lined in black Bemberg ra...
HERMES Gold camel brown leather ORAN Slide Sandals Shoes 41.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Oran slide sandals in Gold (camel) Box calfskin leather epitomize timeless elegance and effortless style. Featuring the iconic H cut-out, these sleek slide...
Hermès Jean Paul Gaultier FW 2008 Runway Ad Campaign Orange Shearling Jacket
By Hermès, Jean Paul Gaultier
Located in London, GB
ULTRA RARE HERMÈS JEAN PAUL GAULTIER FALL WINTER 2008 RUNWAY & AD CAMPAIGN BURNT ORANGE SUEDE CURLY LAMB SHEARLING JACKET An exceptionally rare and highly collectable Hermès Autumn/...
HERMES black leather CHYPRE Slide Sandals Shoes 37.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Chypre sandals in smooth black calfskin leather, defined by the house’s iconic minimalist silhouette and bold H-cut straps. Designed with a rounded toe and ergo...
HERMÈS silk blue on white "les pivoines" pants
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
HERMÈS Silk pants "Les pivoines" (the peonies) blue and white high-waisted pants Two side pockets and two back pockets White double stitching Bronze metal button with logo Size F...
HERMES black leather MEDOR LOAFER Pumps Shoes 38.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Medor loafer-style platform pumps are crafted from black brushed leather, offering a refined blend of sophistication and modern edge. The design features ...
HERMES ecru viscose silk silver zipper head ribbed crop cardigan FR36 S
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES ecru viscose silk silver zipper head ribbed crop cardigan FR36 S Reference: KYCG/A00079 Brand: Hermes Material: Viscose, Silk Color: Beige, Silver Pattern: Solid Closure: Zip ...
HERMES black leather 2010 Blazer Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier blazer is crafted in black grained deerskin leather and tailored into a sharp, fitted silhouette. Designed with notched lapels, a che...
Hermès 1990s Grey Cashmere Cardigan with Leather Belt, Size FR 36
By Hermès
Located in Capri, IT
Hermès grey cachemire cardigan embellished witn leather belt size fr 36
Vintage HERMES Paris Mink Jacket with printed Scarf Silk Lining
By Hermès
Located in Amsterdam, NL
This vintage unique jacket 1980's is made of brown mink with silk Hermes lining Rare to find Look at our storefront for more luxurious vintage items. Details: Lined with Hermes sil...
Hermès Veste Caban FR34 Black Wool Whipcord Oversized Pea Coat UK6 US4 Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès oversized pea coat in thick black whipcord wool, notched collar with double-breasted button closure, Hermès logo buttons in blackened silver-tone metal and black leather, two ...
Hermès Black Leather Knee High Riding Boots with Silver Buckle Size 37.5
By Hermès
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Hermès black leather knee high boots crafted in smooth black leather with a structured shaft and polished silver tone Kelly buckle hardware at the upper strap. The design has a clean...
HERMES deerskin asymmetric snap button collared belted long leather coat FR34
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES deerskin asymmetric snap button collared formal belted long leather coat FR34 XS Reference: SNKO/A00665 Brand: Hermes Collection: 2024 Material: Leather Color: Black, Silver P...
Hermès Women's Spring 2021 Black Leather Zip Front Coat, Size FR38
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Luxest Hermes leather coat from the Spring 2021 collection - Look 15 on the runway. Bought for £14000 and worn once. Made from incredibly soft and...
HERMES black leather FAUBOURG Loafers Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Faubourg loafers are crafted in black glazed calfskin, offering a sleek balance of elegance and versatility. Designed with a notched sole for a modern edg...
HERMES Brun Fume brown suede STORY 70 KELLY Boots Shoes 37
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Story 70 boot is crafted in Brun Fumé (camel brown) suede. It features round toes, knee-high shafts, and a slim strap at the top finished with the iconic K...
$1,372Sale Price|20% Off
HERMÈS - Vintage Cotton Bathrobe "Les Leopards" by Christiane Vauzelles
By Hermès, Christiane Vauzelles
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Rare soft cotton terry bathrobe the motif and the iconic one of the Carrè "Les Leopards" designed by master Christiane Vauzelles - This ...
Hermès Women's H Cashmere Leather Coat, Size FR36/UK8, Excellent
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
The luxest ever Hermes H cashmere and leather coat. Bought for £9500 and worn once. Made from incredibly soft cream cashmere with tan deerskin H detailing. It has a timeless, slight...
$5,437Sale Price|30% Off
Hermes Equestrian Deerskin Leather Jacket Cerulean Blue
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, highest quality Hermes Equestrian leather jacket. Unworn. Made from the highest quality, super malleable cerulean blue deerskin with Her...
HERMES 100% cashmere off white leather logo buttons oversized cardigan FR34 XS
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES 100% cashmere off white leather logo buttons oversized cardigan FR34 XS Reference: KYCG/A00076 Brand: Hermes Material: 100% Cashmere Color: Cream Pattern: Solid Closure: Butto...
HERMES Bleu Noir blue leather 2021 PANELLED MINI Skirt 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès skirt in midnight blue leather showcases the house’s signature precision and timeless sophistication. Featuring a straight cut and flattering mini length, ...
Hermès Kelly Skirt by Jean Paul Gaultier, Fall/Winter 2004–2005.
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, Paris
Hermès Kelly Skirt by Jean Paul Gaultier, Fall/Winter 2004–2005. 100% virgin wool, with lambskin leather trim and metal buckles. Size 38 FR (Medium) Measurements: Waist: 38 cm / 1...
HERMES Vintage Minéraux Silk Shirt Blouse
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES Paris vintage Minéraux silk shirt blouse featuring a refined composition of multicolored gemstones and mineral motifs on an off-white background. This silk shirt captures the...
Hermès Large Embroidered Terry Towel Navy theme
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Towel Embroidered with a marine-themed motif, HERMES in yellow cotton thread in semaphore font, sailor's beret seen from above with its red pompom in the cente...
HERMES dark brown suede LOCK Knee High Boots Shoes 38.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès knee-high almond-toe boots in brown suede leather embellished with Palladium lock depeches. Open with a zipper on the inside. Have been worn and are in excelle...
Hermes Mens Leather Trimmed Trench
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Elegant Hermes Mens Leather Trimmed Trench from the 2000's. Classic cut with interesting details reminiscent of Margiela's tenure at the house. Each detail is extremely well thought ...
HERMES Rose Bubinga nude leather ANCORA Loafers Flats Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Ancona loafers in Rose Bubinga (dusty rose) supple calfskin leather blend refined craftsmanship with subtle signature detailing. Designed with rounded toe...
Hermès Women's Contemporary Avantage Sneakers White Leather Size 38.5
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Luxe Hermes Avantage sneakers. Unworn with box and 2 x dustbags. Made from white leather with coloured H motif, think laces and chunky soles. Size 38.5/UK5.5. Measure approx - 10.25”...
HERMES black leather TIPOLI Wedge Espadrille Sandals Shoes 41 fit 40
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Tipoli espadrille wedge sandals in smooth Noir goatskin with iconic Palladium plated buckle, wrap-around ankle strap and natural rope heel. Brand new. Measure...
Hermès Women's Quicker Sneakers White Calf Leather Hot Pink Suede Trim
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Luxe Hermes Quicker sneakers. Unworn with 2 x dustbags. Made from white calf leather with hot pink suede trims, quilted H motifs, thick laces and white soles. Size 38.5/UK5.5. Measur...
Hermès New Oasis Sandal Epsom Etoupe 37
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Oasis Sandal Brown with a natural leather sole and an etoupe leather heel, features a hazelnut goatskin insole and lining. Italian number 37. Come with double dustcover ...
Hermes Rose Quartz Double Faced Cashmere Cape Fit Jacket
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, superbly crafted Hermes cashmere jacket. New with tags. Made from the highest quality Rose Quartz pink double faced cashmere with burgundy leather trims. It has a loose,...
HERMÈS - Vintage men's silk vest "Carpe Diem" by Joachim Metz, 1994
By Hermès, Joachim Metz
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMES COLLECTIONS - Rare pure silk vest featuring the iconic "Carpe Diem" Carré pattern by Joachim Metz, 1994 - Dimensions: Length 62 cm, shoulders 34 cm. M...
Hermès polo shirt circa 2000 by Martin Margiela
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - Ready-to-wear capsule collection circa 2000 under the artistic direction of Martin Margiela. White silk and knit polo shirt with thin blue stripes. It fits a French size 3...
Hermes Lady Vest - 5 Buttons Charreada Red Violet - Excellent Condition Rare!
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Lady Vest Hermes 5 Buttons Charreada Red Violet - 2502241942 Brand: Hermès Item Type: Vest Name Design: Charreada, Mexican Rodeo Artist: Jean de Fougerolle External Material Back: 1...
Hermes Cadran Solaire Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Rare Hermès "Solar Clock" Towel in 100% Terry Cotton Dimensions : 35.4" x 59.1"
HERMES Fauve brown Barenia leather 2011 Blazer Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier jacket is crafted in rich Fauve (cognac brown) Barenia calfskin leather with signature contrasting white saddle stitching. Designed i...
Hermes Oran Blue Marine Alligator Flat Sandals 39
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a pair of Hermes Oran sandals featured in Bleu Marine Alligator. This stunning limited edition Hermes Oran flat slide sandal is a neutral with a subtle punch of col...
HERMES Marine blue suede NEO Ankle Boots Shoes 40
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Neo ankle boots in Marine (navy blue) suede are a refined fusion of equestrian inspiration and timeless elegance. Designed with wrap-around ankle straps a...
Hermes Camel Cashmere Jumper
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes 1980s camel cashmere jumper featuring a horse-head motif, a round turtle neck, long sleeves. Composition: 100% cashmere Label size 38fr/US6 /UK10 In good vintage condition. Ma...
Hermes Rouge Cornaline Double Faced Cashmere Jacket
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, superbly coloured Hermes double faced cashmere jacket. New with tags. Made from the highest quality double faced cashmere in the richest orangey red - official colours i...
Hermès 1990s Veste Soie Insectes FR38 Ecru Silk Twill Jacket UK10 US8 Hermes
By Hugo Grygkar, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès long jacket circa 1990 in ecru silk twill with the Insectes print by Hugo Grygkar & La Torre (first produced in 1958), notched collar fastened with three mother-of-pearl butto...
HERMES black leather Band Collar Quilted Shoulder BIKER Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
Hermès band-collar biker jacket in midnight blue lambskin with knit waistband on the back in midnight blue viscose (75%) and nylon (25%). Features a quilted storm flap on the left sh...
HERME 2010 Runway black leather brown fur lined buckled block heeled boots EU39
By Jean Paul Gaultier, Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERME 2010 Runway black leather brown fur lined buckled block heeled boots EU39 Reference: VACN/A00162 Brand: Hermes Designer: Jean Paul Gaultier Model: Fall/Winter 2010 Material: L...
HERMES Jumping So Black calfskin leather matte hardware tall riding boots EU38
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Jumping So Black calfskin leather matte hardware tall riding boots EU38 Reference: MELK/A00367 Brand: Hermes Model: Jumping Boot (Botte Jumping) Collection: "So Black" Hardwar...
$5,825Sale Price|25% Off
Hermes Equestrian Deerskin Leather Jacket Quilted Taupe
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, highest quality Hermes Equestrian quilted leather jacket. Bought for £7750 and unworn. Made from the highest quality, super malleable ta...
Hermès Mosaic Fishes Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Très rare Serviette / Drap / Tapis de plage Hermès "Mosaic Fishes" 100% Coton. Parfait état Dimensions : H: 90 x L: 150 cm.
ERMES ivory 100% double face cashmere open cap sleeve belted robe coat FR36 S
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
ERMES ivory 100% double face cashmere open cap sleeve belted robe coat FR36 S Reference: KYCG/A00239 Brand: Hermes Material: Cashmere Color: Cream Pattern: Solid Closure: Self Tie Li...
Hermès Men’s Navy Blue Cashmere Overcoat with Leather Collar Detail
By Hermès
Located in Basaluzzo, IT
Hermès men's coat in fine navy blue cashmere, a high-end outerwear piece featuring classic tailored construction and refined black leather details. This jacket features a long silhou...
1990s Hermès by Martin Margiela linen midi skirt
By Hermès
Located in Milano, Lombardia
1990s Hermès by Martin Margiela linen midi skirt This 1990s Hermès midi skirt from Martin Margiela’s tenure is crafted from natural-toned linen. Its high-waisted, elongated silhouet...
Hermès Leopards Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Rare Vintage Hermès "Leopards" Beach Towel in 100% Terry Cotton. Dimensions : 35.4" x 59.1"
HERMES checked 100% cotton made in france collared long sleeve shirt EU39 M
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES blue white checked 100% cotton made in france collared long sleeve shirt EU39 M Reference: LACG/A00478 Brand: Hermes Material: Cotton Color: White, Blue Pattern: Checkered Cl...
$860Sale Price|25% Off
Hermès Spring 2022 Women's Black Cotton Studded Shirt Dress, Size UK8
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Luxe chic Hermes studded shirt dress from the Spring 2022 collection. Worn once and has been dry cleaned. Made from crisp black cotton with subtle studded detailing, it has oversized...
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.
Select Hermes goods go on sale twice a year in Paris, but Birkins – being highly coveted–are not known to be found at the sale.