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.
$976Sale Price|42% Off
Auth. Hermes Shawl CS140 Bouquets Sellier - CS140 - Rose Vif Jaune Dor Noir NEW
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Bouquets Sellier – CS140 – Rose Vif Jaune Dor Noir – NWSTS – 2001211641 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Shawl 140 Cashmere Silk Name Design: Bouquets Sellier, Bouquets Sellier Artist: Pie...
Hermès Porcelain Gold Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Deer Print Xavier de Poret
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Deer Designed by Xavier de Poret LP crest on both sides, for Laurent Perrier champagnes. Perfect gift for someone with the initi...
Hermès By Martin Margiela A/W 1999 vintage Vareuse shirt black cotton 34 FR XS S
By Martin Margiella, Hermès
Located in London, GB
HERMÈS BY MARTIN MARGIELA A/W 1999 VAREUSE SHIRT IN BLACK COTTON 34 FR Hermes by Martin Margiela iconic Vareuse shirt featuring a deep v neckline with classic collar and buttoned c...
Exceptional Hermès Cashmere Plaid Throw Blanket Cover Felin Hug
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Throw Blanket Gorgeous, warm, soft, ideal partner for your cold evenings ! Print: "Câlin Felin" (feline hug) Shows 2 tigers, one fauve and one...
Hermès Silk Scarf Vintage Roue Arriere du Carosse Imperial Vauzelles 1983 1B
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Scarf Pattern: "Roue Arrière du Carosse Impérial de la Cour de Vienne" Designed by Christiane Vauzelles in 1983 This is a rare Vintage scarf, rated 1B in the Hermès Scarves Book...
1960's Hermes Brown Crocodile Skin Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Stunning and rare Hermes bag from the 1960s. Crafted from a structured glossy toffee brown colour crocodile skin with contrasting warm gold tone metal hardware. Interesting square cl...
HERMES Jypsiere 28 Shoulder Bag Taurillon Clemence Leather Pink R Stamp
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: HERMES Jypsiere 28 Shoulder Bag Taurillon Clemence leather orange r stamp france，There is localized cleaning and color restoration on the back, with minor signs of normal ...
Hermes Lindy 26 Blue Swift Leather Silver HW PHW D Stamp Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: hermes lindy 26 handbag blue stamp d France swift，The corners are worn, and there are scratches on the hardware. Accessories: Dust bag. size: Width:26cm Designer: Herme...
Hermès Foulard Carre 90 Carpe Diem 1994 Joachim Metz Silk Twill Scarf Hermes
By Hermès, Joachim Metz
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès 90cm square silk twill scarf, Carpe Diem design by Joachim Metz, first produced in 1994 and reissued in 1997, in vibrant shades of yellow, red, blue, and green, with yellow ed...
Hermès New Toile Clutch Traffic Jam
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès flat case in H canvas with "Traffic Jam" print, 100% cotton, screen print, made in France and designed by Katie Scott. Brand new in unused condition.
Hermes 24/24 29 Bag Togo Clemence Swift Leather Red Rouge Handbag D Stamp
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: HERMES 2424 Vanquatre 29 red Togo Clemence Swift Handbag Shoulder Bag France，There are normal wear marks and scratches on the interior hardware ...
Hermès "Fleurs De Lotus" Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Fleurs De Lotus" 100% cotton scarf in green and yellow, and features hand-rolled edges.
Auth. Hermes Scarf - La Vallee De Cristal - Bleu Blanc Parme - New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
La Vallee De Cristal - Bleu Blanc Parme - NWSTS - 2604231656 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Name Design: La Vallée de Cristal, The Crystal Valley Artist: Ugo Bienvenu...
Hermès Black Noir Swift Leather Kelly Cut Clutch Bag
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Hermès Black Noir Swift Leather Kelly Cut Clutch Bag with palladium hardware is a sophisticated and versatile accessory that embodies timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship. Crafted from luxurious Swift leather, this clutch offers a sleek, smooth finish that enhances its refined appearance. Its minimalist design makes it perfect for both day and evening events, easily elevating any ensemble. The clutch’s understated elegance pairs beautifully with a variety of designer items, such as a Chanel Little Black Dress, Gucci leather loafers...
Hermès Prune Jige PM Clutch Bag
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
A true classic, the Jige has long been offered by Hermès. This beautiful prune Niloticus clutch bag is most distinctive by its fold-over top and leather 'H' pull tab closure. With en...
Hermès Birkin 25 Vert Amande Togo Leather With Gold Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
Hermès Vert Amande is a shade of green offered by the luxury French fashion house Hermès. Translated to "Green Almond" in English, this color is inspired by the delicate hues of fres...
HERMES Jean blue Clemence leather EVELYNE 33 Crossbody Bag Phw NO STRAP
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Evelyne III 33 crossbody bag is crafted in Blue Jean Clemence leather with contrasting white stitching and palladium hardware. It features the house’s sign...
Hermes Kelly Cut Clutch Swift Leather Rose Pourpre PHW Bag Stamp D 2019
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Slight signs of use, clean inside and out, overall good condition. Accessories: Dust bag size: Width:31cm,height:13cm Designer: Hermes Model: Kelly Cut Clutc Exterior...
Hermes Birkin 25 Blue Colvert Togo Leather Gold Hardware Rare Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Ultra Rare and highly coveted, Hermes Birkin 25 Blue Colvert Togo Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. Prisitine Condition 2016 X Stamp. Plastic on all Hardware! Please keep in min...
HERMES black Evercolor leather TRIM DUO 24 Crossbody Bag Phw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Trim Duo 24 crossbody bag in black Veau Evercolor leather exemplifies refined everyday elegance. Featuring palladium hard...
Hermes Birkin 25 Mushroom White Togo Leather Palladium Hardware Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare Absolutely Stunning New Hermes Birkin 25 Mushroom Togo Leather complimented by Palladium Hardware. As New B Stamp 2023. Please keep in mind this is not a store fresh bag. It has...
Hermes Birkin Sellier 25 Bag Framboise Veau Madame Leather Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Birkin Sellier 25 bag featured in vibrant Framboise. Hermes Framboise is a rich, saturated raspberry pink which is gorgeous for year round wear. The Herme...
Hermes Opli Clutch Bag Blue Leather Silver Hardware Stmap A
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Brand Name：hermes Grade：A Color：blue MaterialFabric ：leather Sizex 21.5cm long Accessories:Dust bag; wool fel
Hermes Paris Equestrian Print Red Silk Necktie in Hermes Box
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Paris Equestrian silk print red necktie in Hermes Box c 1990s The stylish silk necktie is illustrated with a series of facing horse figures set against a muted red background. Hermes' H initial...
Hermes Birkin 30 Bubblegum Pink Anemone Purple Chevre Gold HWR Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Special VIP Order Hermes Birkin 30 Pink Bubblegum & Anemone Purple Chevre Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. As new with Plastic on all Hardware and Feet Please keep in mind the ...
Hermès Brandebourg Double Face Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès silk twill rare Brandebourg scarf designed by Caty Latham. Limited edition double-face with different colors on both side for the same subject. Comes with ribbon and original...
Hermes Scarf Nigel Peake Garden Of Shapes Orange/Turquoise 90Cm NEW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Scarf Nigel Peake Garden Of Shapes Orange/Turquoise /multicolors 90Cm NEW with tags,Hermes box .Box has one little mark from storage. Made in France Final sale.
2004s Hermes Pink Passementerie by F Heron Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf Passementerie by Françoise Heron featuring a pink border. Circa 2004 In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in. (90cm) X 35,4in. (90cm) We guarantee you w...
Hermès Sellier Fly Bonnet Black Crocheted Cotton Horse Size
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermès Sellier fly bonnet is crafted in black crocheted cotton, offering a timeless and versatile equestrian look. The classic black tone pairs effortlessly with...
Hermès Shiny Porosus Crocodile Constance 23 Handbag circa 1990s
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This Hermes Shiny Porosus Crocodile Constance 23 Handbag from the circa 1990s is a stunning example of luxury craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Crafted from exquisite shiny Porosu...
Hermès Birkin 30 Black Togo Palladium
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès authentic birkin 30 cm in black Togo leather and palladium hardware. Comes with clochette, tirette, lock and two keys. First letter X. Comes with rain protection, booklet, ori...
Hermès NIB "Les Bassets" Silk Gavroche
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Les Bassets" Scarf is in 100% silk with hand rolled edges, designed by Xavier de Poret, and features detailed sketches of dachshund hounds in vario...
Hermès Birkin 25 Gris Meyer Togo Leather With Gold Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
Gris Meyer is the medium-grey neutral Hermès. The pigment carries subtle warm yellow undertones that distinguish it from cooler greys like Étain and Gris Perle, reading as a softer m...
Hermes Birkin 25 Bag Rose Mexico Crocodile Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermès Birkin 25 in Rose Mexico crocodile is a striking fusion of rarity and elegance. Rendered in one of Hermès’ most coveted jewel-toned pinks, this bag offers...
Hermès Twilly Galons et Brandebourgs Black Gold White in Box
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Twilly Scarf Print: "Galons et Brandebourgs" Twilly can be used as small scarf but also to cover the handle of your Hermès bag Made in France Made of 100%...
Hermès "Les Bassets" Scarf New in Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Les Bassets" scarf, is in 100% silk in the blue colorway with hand rolled edges, designed by the renowned animal artist Xavier de Poret. New in ori...
Exceptional Hermès Kelly 32 Toile Barenia Special Edition India Gange RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Stunning and Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Bag "KELLY II" retourné Special Edition for the Year of India, also called "Gange" A must-have for any H...
Hermes Birkin 25 Black Togo Leather With Palladium Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
This Birkin is in Black togo leather with palladium hardware, has tonal stitching, a front flap, two straps with a center toggle closure, a clochette with lock and two keys, and doub...
Hermès Limited Edition Birkin 35cm "Fray Fray" Brown Swift Leather Beige Canvas
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Limited edition bag from Hermès featuring the Birkin 35 Fray Fray design. Crafted in Biscuit Swift leather with Toile canvas, the construction blends sm...
Hermès " Pony Express" Green Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès " Pony Express" Scarf is in green 100% silk with rolled edges. Collectible and rare design by Kermit Oliver. Care tag attached. Minor stains, please refer to photo.
Hermes Kelly 25 Blue Atoll Epsom w/Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
A striking expression of Hermès craftsmanship, this Kelly 25 is rendered in Blue Atoll Epsom leather, a luminous shade inspired by the crystalline waters of a tropical lagoon. Fresh,...
Hermès Birkin 35 Violet Togo Palladium
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Birkin 35 in violet togo leather with palladium hardware and tonal stitching, Front flap, two straps with center toggle closure, a clochette with lock, two keys and doubl...
Hermès Kelly II 25 Nata Ostrich Sellier Boréale Gold Hardware G Stamp 2026
By Hermès
Located in Forest Park, GA
Hermès Kelly II 25 Nata Ostrich Sellier Boréale Gold Hardware G Stamp 2026 A striking expression of understated luxury, this Hermès Kelly II 25 Sellier appears in the sought-after N...
Hermès Pocket Cigar Cutter in Leather Case
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Cigar Cutter Its size allows it to be stored in your pocket, and it's safe from cuts thanks to its original Hermès case. Ma...
New Hermès Blue Red Giraffes Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
New Hermes blue and red "three giraffes" in box silk scarf. Design by Alice Shirley. In original box.
Hermes Roulis 18 Mini Evercolor Leather Gold Shoulder Bag Original France
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Hermes Roulis 18 Mini Evercolor Leather in Gold shoulderbag original France Y，There is slight blackening and wear on the edges, and there a...
Hermès 2021 Etoupe Epsom Leather Kelly 25cm Sellier Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
"Hermès Etoupe Epsom Leather Kelly 25cm Sellier Product Details Xupes Ref: CB1665 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 25cm Type: Top Handle, Shoulder Serial Number: Z Age: 2021 Accompanied B...
Hermès Ecorce Togo Birkin 35 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Ecorce Togo Birkin 35 PHW SKU: Z155430 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Founded in Paris in 1837 as a harness workshop,...
Hermes BNIB Kelly 28 Retournè Gold Togo
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Brand new in box Hermes Kelly Bag 28 retourne gold togo leather with palladium tone hardware. Contrast white stitching. Detachable leather strap. Date stamp W for 2025. Comes with cl...
Hermès Black Navy Pony Express Silk Shirt
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This beautiful Hermès 100% silk button down is a classic piece to compliment any wardrobe. Features Native American Indian print by world...
HERMES Poussiere beige Tadelakt leather KELLY 25 SELLIER Bag Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Kelly 25 Sellier bag in Poussiere (ocher brown) Veau Tadelakt leather with gold-plated hardware. Lined in Chevre (goat skin) with an open pocket against the fro...
HERMES pale blue silk FRONTAUX ET COCARDES 90 TWILL Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 'Frontaux Et Cocardes 90' scarf by Caty Latham in ivory silk twill (100%) with pale teal border and details in gold, yellow and gray. Has been worn with stains ...
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...
Hermès Garden Party Negonda Small New
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès small 30cm garden party bag in rouge h negonda leather and palladium hardware. Handle drop, 4.5"L. First letter U. Comes with booklet, original dustcover and box.
Hermès Customised Jige Elan PM Black
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
A true classic, the Jige has long been offered by Hermès. This beautiful black leather clutch bag is most distinctive by its graphic all-over snake print, and features the iconic Jig...
Hermes Magnificently Bold "Pierres d'Orient et d'Occident" Silk Jacquard Scarf
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Magnificently bold and vivid arrangement of colors in this "Pierres d'Orient et d'Occident" Silk Jacquard scarf is simply quite elegant! The scarf measures 34 1/2 inches by 34...
HERMES beige silk chiffon LEGENDE MOGHOLE 140 MOUSSELINE Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 140 Legende Moghole Mousseline silk (100%) chiffon scarf circa 2008 features an elaborate design of florals and animals on a backgroun...
Hermès Abricot Agate Magnolia Rouge Casaque Epsom Sunset Sellier Birkin 35 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Abricot Bleu Agate Magnolia Rouge Casaque Epsom Sunset Sellier Birkin 35 SKU: Z155746 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description:...
Hermès Swift Jige Elan 29 Clutch Etoupe
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Swift Jige Elan 29 Clutch in Etoupe features softly grained calfskin leather in grey. The crossover flap and strap secures under a leather Hermes "H. The flap opens to a ...
Hermes Scarf Eperons d'Or et Couvertures et Tenues de Jour - CS90 - Limited ED
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Eperons d'Or et Couvertures et Tenues de Jour - CS90 - Gris Fonce Claire - Ornementation - NWST - 2607011301 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Cashmere Silk Name Design: Éperons d'...
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.