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 Shiny Orange Poppy Porosus Crocodile Birkin 35
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This stunning Hermès Shiny Orange Poppy Porosus Crocodile Birkin 35 is a true statement piece, exuding luxury and sophistication. The vibrant, glossy red-orange hue is complemented b...
Hermes Birkin 30 Rouge H Red Alligator Leather Palladium Hardware Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
RARE & Stunning Hermes Birkin 30 Rouge H Mississippian Alligator Leather Complimented by Palladium Hardware. Excellent Condition with Plastic on Hardware Dimensions: 12 W x 6 D x 9 ...
Hermes Kelly Mini 20 Blue Tie Epsom Electrum Palladium Hardware Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Very Rare and Most Coveted Hermes Mini Kelly 20 Blue Tie Epsom Leather Complimented by Electrum Hardware. As New 2025 K Stamp. Includes all accessories and box. Thank you for stoppi...
Exceptional Hermès Vintage Glasses Case Beige Ostrich Leather RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Glasses Case Exceptional Piece, extremely rare Made in France No datation stamp, Vintage item Made of ostrich leather, inside ...
Hermes "Marqueterie de Pierres d'Orient... Mini Porcelain Ashtray Organizer
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès Multicolor porcelain mini square organizer "Marqueterie de Pierres d'Orient et d'Occident" featuring a square shape, a under leather bottom with a Hermes signature. Circa 198...
Hermes Rose Tyrien Birkin 35 Bag
By Hermès
Located in Athens, GA
Hermes Rose Tyrien Birkin 35 Bag. Epsom leather. Palladium silver hardware. N stamp from 2010. Good to very fair condition. Has some wear on corners. Please see photos. Light wear on...
HERMES orange cashmere silk dual V-neck raglan sleeves sweater FR34 XS
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES orange cashmere silk dual V-neck raglan sleeves sweater FR34 XS Reference: NKLL/A00650 Brand: Hermes Material: Cashmere, Silk Color: Orange Pattern: Solid Closure: Slip On Ext...
Hermès "Minuit au Faubourg" Silk Scarf New in Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Minuit au Faubourg" Silk Scarf in red. The pattern shows the city of Paris in a comic drawing. New with the original box.
Hermès Bubblegum Ostrich Leather Constance Elan
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Bubblegum Ostrich Leather Constance Elan Product Details MML064 Brand: Hermès Model: Constance Elan Type: Shoulder, Crossbody Serial Number: K Age: 2025 Accompanied By: Hermè...
HERMES gold plated CLASSIC H 32MM Belt Buckle
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Classic H 32mm belt buckle is crafted in luxurious gold-plated metal, showcasing the iconic silhouette synonymous with the house’s timeless elegance. Desig...
Hermes Small 24/24 Black Leather, Gold Hardware, C Stamp
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Title: Hermès Small 24/24 Black Leather, Gold Hardware, C Stamp Inclusions: Dust bag, shoulder strap Condition: Slight panel tilt, minor scratches on hardware, overall light wear. Si...
Hermes Kelly Cut Clutch Rose Azalee Azalea Pink Swift Leather Gold Hardware Rare
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare and Most Coveted Hermes Kelly Cut Rose Azalee Swift Leather Complimented by Gold Hardware. Pristine Condition Like New! Plastic on All Hardware. Please keep in mind that this is...
Auth. Hermes Scarf - Bagage a Main - Turquoise Rose Pal - New with Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Bagage a Main - Turquoise Rose Pal - NWST - 2604131745 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Name Design: Bagage à Main, Hand Luggage Artist: Rosa Maria Unda Souki Size: 90 ...
Hermès "Minuit au Faubourg" Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Minuit au Faubourg" Silk Scarf in blue. The pattern shows a comic of the city Paris with a horse on a balcony. Mint condition with the original box.
Hermes Troca Black Cotton Tote Bag
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes 2000s black Troca cotton tote bag featuring leather trim, stripe detailing, two top handles, press-stud fastening, main compartment, internal zip-fastening pocket, slip pocket...
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...
HERMES Jypsiere 31 Red Leather Crossbody Bag Sliver Hardware 2012
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: The condition is average, with obvious signs of use, clean inside, obvious scratches on hardware and ...
Hermès Tarot Playing Cards With Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Authentic Tarot Playing Cards feature, silver edged cards and printed paper and cardboard base. Used in excellent condition. Comes in original box slightly damages.
Louis Vuitton Brown Reverse Monogram Coated Canvas Onthego East West
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
"Louis Vuitton Brown Reverse Monogram Coated Canvas Onthego East West Product Details Xupes Ref: HB6116 Brand: Louis Vuitton Model: Onthego East-West Type: Tote, Shoulder, Crossbody...
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...
Hermès Haut à Courroies (HAC) 50 Navy Blue Fjord Leather w/Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Hermès Haut à Courroies 50cm in Navy Blue Fjord leather with gold hardware represents the origins of Hermès travel craftsmanship, embodying a silhouette that predates the Birkin ...
HERMES brown suede EMBROIDERED CRUSADER Knee High Platform Boots Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès knee-high boots in dark brown featuring a stacked heel, black complementing zigzag embroidery and a fold-over top. Open with an inner-zipper. Have been worn wit...
$19,710
Hermès Kelly 32 Purple Iris
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Elevate your wardrobe with this classic PHW Kelly bag by Hermès. Crafted with Togo leather, this exquisite piece features palladium hardware, was crafted in 2010 and has been kept in...
Hermes NIB Birkin 30 Gold Togo Palladium
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès 30cm Birkin bag in gold togo leather and palladium hardware. Plastic on hardware. Handle drop, 3"L. Includes clochette, tirette, lock, keys, felt, 2 dust bags and original box...
HERMES black leather LOAFER STYLE Pumps Shoes 37.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès loafer-style pumps are crafted from smooth black leather, blending timeless sophistication with everyday versatility. The design features a classic almond...
Hermès Epsom Kelly Sellier 25 Vert Jade
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Kelly Sellier 25 cm in Vert Jade features Epsom calfskin leather is brand new in unused condition. A single rolled leather top handle is secured with silver hardware and an opti...
Hermes bag 'Ring' by Catherine de Károlyi 1975
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - A Collection from 1975, under the artistic direction of Catherine de Károlyi. 25cm coffee-colored Crocodylus Porosus 'Ring' bag with a gold-plated fastener on a flap, and a...
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.
Hermès Lim. Ed. Pawnee Bandana Scarf NEW IN BOX
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès silk twill Pani La Shar Pawnee 90cm scarf in black with blue color. Designed by artist Kermit Oliver. Limited edition reissue "bandana" with reverse blue and celeste design. B...
HERMES Victoria II 35 Fourre-Tout Purple Clemence Leather
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Normal signs of use, interior with yellowing oxidation and stains, corner wear, scratches on hardware. Accessories: Key,Lock size: Width:35cm,height:23cm Designer: Herm...
Hermes Garden Party 30 Pink Canvas TPM Top Handle Shopping Bag
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Normal signs of wear, scratches on the hardware, a broken button, small stains on the interior and surface, and scuffing on the four corners. Accessories: No Accessories ...
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 ...
Black Hermes Dogon Compact Wallet
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Black Dogon compact wallet by Hermes. Silver-tone hardware. Front closure. 7.5" height, 4.75" width, 0.5" length.
Auth. Hermes Scarf - Harnais De Coeur - Bleu Noir Creme - New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Harnais de Coeur - Bleu Noir Creme - NWSTS - 2607011304 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Name Design: Harnais de Cœur, Heart Harness Artist: Daiske Nomura Size: 90 cm x...
HERMES Constance 18 Rose Texas Pink Chevre Goatskin Silver Hardware Bag 2020
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition Slight signs of wear, clean inside and out.. Size Width: 18cm Designer Hermes Model Constance 18 Exterior Material Leather Exterior Color Pink Interior Material Leather Int...
Hermès Turquoise Togo & Swift Leather Ghillies Birkin 35cm Retourne
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Turquoise Togo & Swift Leather Ghillies Birkin 35cm Retourne Product Details JJLG147 Brand: Hermès Model: Birkin 35cm Type: Tote Serial Number: [R] Age: 2014 Accompanied ...
Hermès New Set 2 Poker Decks In Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes brand new in box, set of 2 "horses" Poker Playing Cards with 55 cards. Silver edges cards. Made in France. Comes with original box and ribbon.
Hermès 2013 Kelly Bag Ruby Red Togo Leather 35cm Women's Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermes Kelly Bag - Red - Togo Leather 35cm - New - NWOCTS 2409141505 Type : Hermes Kelly Base Size: 35cm Height: 27cm Depth: 13cm Weight: Material: Togo Cow Calf Leather - White Sti...
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...
$312Sale Price|20% Off
Hermes 1994 "Astres et Soleil" Rare Silk 16.5"x16.5" Scarf by A. Faivre
By Hermès
Located in Port Hope, ON
This a collector's Hermes scarf! The 1994 silk scarf designed by Anne Faivre is an hommage to ancient Inca civilization. The scarf predominantly features people in traditional dress ...
$17,000Sale Price|26% Off
Hermes 40cm Mykonos Blue and White Clemence Limited edition Birkin-SHW -2011
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This is an authentic limited edition HERMES 40cm Clemence Leather Mykonos Blue and White Birkin with Silver Hardware is from 2011 with an O inside a square. This bi-color limited edi...
Hermès "Orange H" Epsom Leather 25cm Birkin Bag with Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Banner Elk, NC
Hermès Orange H Epsom Leather 25cm Birkin Bag with Palladium Hardware, 2007. Originally introduced in the Late 20th Century, the Birkin bag was created during a chance encounter betw...
Hermès Lion Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Lion Made in France Made of porcelain, edges and notches hand painted with fine gold Colorways: ivory, green, yellow, brown Bei...
Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Black Noir Epsom Leather Gold Hardware Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Absolutely Stunning Rare and Most Coveted color. Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Black Epsom Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. Pristine Condition with Plastic on all hardware and feet. ...
Hermès Vert Yukka Clemence Leather Picotin Lock 18
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Vert Yukka Clemence Leather Picotin Lock 18 Product Details CB1695 Brand: Hermès Model: Picotin Lock 18 Type: Tote Serial Number: G Age: 2026 Accompanied By: Hermès Box, Dust...
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 25 White Blanc Leather Gold Hardware Rare Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare Absolutely Stunning New Hermes Birkin 25 White Blanc Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. Plastic on Hardware D Stamp 2019. Please be m...
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 dark brown & black leather 2010 PLATFORMBoots Shoes 40.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès bi-color platform boots in black and espresso brown smooth calfskin. Have been worn and are in excellent condition. 2010 Fall/Winter Measurements Imprinted S...
Hermès Evelyne 16 Gold Clemence BNIB
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Evelyne 16 featuring amazone taurillon clemence leather. It comes with palladium silver hardware and has a shoulder strap made of fabric with ...
Hermès Shiny Rose Scheherazade Alligator Mini Kelly 20
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Hermès Shiny Rose Scheherazade Alligator Mini Kelly 20 is a stunning and luxurious handbag that exemplifies elegance and craftsmanship. Crafted from exquisite shiny rose-colored alli...
Hermes New Silk + Leather Plomb Togo Brazil Soie Cool 22 Backpack Bucket Bag
By Hermès
Located in San Diego, CA
Rare brand new with box Hermes limited edition unisex silk and leather backpack ! From the 2014 collection. Features feather prints and Brazil printed throughout. Neutral colors of g...
HERMES Vintage Silver Plated Horse Head Equestrian Desk Tray
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES vintage silver plated horse head equestrian desk tray featuring a crosshatching design. Originally designed as a desk accessory for pens and pencils, it can also accommodate ...
Hermes H' Diamant' Scarf Ring New
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes H' Diamant' scarf ring in gold-tone metal, features engraved 'H' logo on the front. This beautiful scarf ring will allow you to wear your scarves in many ways while adding a c...
Tan Hermes Logo Belt
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Tan leather logo belt by Hermes. Gold-tone peg-in-hole closure at front. 1" width, 39" length.
$876Sale Price|25% Off
Hermes Flocon Boots Shearling Lined Hiking White Leather Boxed
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe Hermes Flocon boots. Worn once indoors - come with original box. Made from bright white leather with camel shearling trims, white laces and platform soles. Size 38.5/UK5.5...
Hermes Kachinas White Silk Scarf by Kermit Oliver
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes Kachinas coveted print scarf by Us artist Kermit Oliver. Great condition, hand rolled edges.
Hermès Kelly 25 Retourne Beton Togo Leather With Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
The Hermès Kelly 25 in Beton Togo with Palladium hardware. Togo is the house's most popular grained calfskin, valued for its scratch resistance and ability to hold structure while de...
Hermès New Garden Party PM Black Negonda
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Garden Party features black negonda leather and palladium hardware, with rolled handles, snap closures at the side and top, interior toile H canvas, and a single interior...
Hermès Refillable Perfume Spray and Case in Rose Pourpre Crocodile RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Perfume Spray and Case Perfect dimensions for handbag Case made of crocodile skin and metal Refillable spray made of glass Colorways: Shiny Rose Pour...
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.