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.
HERMES black Epsom leather MINI KELLY 20 SELLIER Bag Phw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Mini Kelly 20 Sellier Bag in Noir is the epitome of timeless elegance and craftsmanship. Expertly crafted in structured Epsom leather, this mini version of...
Hermès Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Le Fleuve Sacre Gange Ganga India
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare and Absoultely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: "Le Fleuve Sacré" (The Sacred River) Designed by Catherine Baschet in 2005 Theme: India, Gange, Ganga Mata, ...
Exceptional Hermès Smoking Pipe Wood Leather
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare Authentic Hermès Pipe Stummel made of heather wood, fully covered in brown leather with saddle stitching / Stem made of resin Vintage item Colorways: brown, black ...
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...
Hermes Vintage Navy Blue and Black Fourre Tout PM Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Rome, Rome
Step back into the late 90s with this iconic Hermes Fourre-Tout, a model that redefined functional luxury for the modern woman. Meticulously crafted in France from durable navy blue ...
$15,202Sale Price|20% Off
Hermès Dachshund Photos Holder Photos Frame Teckel
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès Photo Frame Absolutely stunning, a true collectible item for dachshund lovers Base is in shape of a dachshund, the body holding glass panels i...
Hermès Birkin So Black 35 in boxcalf leather with black hardware.
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Birkin So Black 35 bag in boxcalf leather with black hardware. The bag has never been worn and comes with all its accessories. Date of manufacture (2011) The So Black embodies...
Hermès 30 Togo Calfskin Zanzibar Blue Malachite handlebag
By Hermès
Located in Capri, IT
Hermès 30 Togo Calfskin Zanzibar Blue Malachite handlebag Birkin 30 in Togo calfskin in Zanzibar Blue/Malachite, manufactured in 2017 with a subsequent 2023 invoice for the replaceme...
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 ...
Hermes Picotin Lock Cargo 18 Rose Texas Canvas Leather Bag Stamp U
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Normal signs of wear, slight darkening on the corners, minor scratches on the base, and slight storage marks inside. Accessories:Dust bag,Lock Designer: Hermes Model:Pi...
HERMES Fauve brown Barenia leather 2011 BELTED BUSTIER Top Shirt 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier bustier top is crafted in Fauve (cognac brown) Barenia calfskin leather with signature contrast white stitching. Designed in a struct...
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 in stores and this is our last piece . New with tags and box. Final sale
Hermès Mini Kelly 20 cm Sellier Bag Satin Doblis Leather Gold Hdw
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Bag "Mini Kelly" Sellier version, rigid, so Chic ! Collector piece ! Only a few in the world. A true collector bag Made in France Stamp U in a circ...
Hermes Paris Vintage Red Cotton Canvas Fourre Tout PM Tote Bag
By Hermès
Located in Rome, Rome
Step into the world of 1990s Parisian chic with the iconic Hermes Fourre-Tout, a model celebrated for its perfect blend of utility and effortless style. This PM tote, expertly crafte...
Hermès Carré 90 Grands Fonds Detail 2001 Navy Silk twill carre Scarf Hermes Box
By Hermès, Annie Faivre
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès 90cm square silk twill scarf, Grands Fonds print (detail) by Annie Faivre, first released in 2001 in shades of blue and camel beige, with hand-rolled navy blue edges. Approxim...
HERMES Craie cream Epsom leather BIRKIN 25 SELLIER Tote Bag w PHW
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Birkin 25 Sellier bag in Craie (chalk white) Veau Epsom leather, a crisp and architectural expression of the house’s most coveted icon. Crafted in the structure...
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...
HERMES Cuivre Clemence leather EVELYNE 16 MAXI QUADRILLE Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Evelyne 16 crossbody bag in Cuivre Taurillon Clemence leather. A timeless icon in a rich copper-brown hue, featuring the signature perforated H and refined gold...
Hermès Sheriff Hat Leather Charm for Kelly or Birkin Horse Texas
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Charm Comes from the "petit h" collection In shape of a sheriff's hat, with a 6-pointed star cut out Can be used as Bag Charm for your Hermès Kelly or...
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...
Auth. Hermes Scarf - Emile Et Une Nuit - Argent Orange Vert - New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Emile Et Une Nuit - Argent Orange Vert - NWSTS - 2604131718 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Name Design: Emile et Une Nuit, Emile et Une Nuit Artist: Virginie Jamin Size: 90 cm x 90 cm / 35 in x 35 in Color: Argent (Silver), Orange (Orange), Vert (Green) Fabric: 100% Silk Twill, hand-rolled edges Approx. Issue Date: Fall/Winter 2024 Condition: New With Store Tag, S item, Never Worn, Without Box. Store tag attached; unused condition; no box included. Country of Origin: Made in France Story about the Design: Night falls on rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. As soon as the door to Émile Hermès' office closes, the sleeping animals come to life in a frenzied, lantern-lit procession. A giraffe tries on dog collars, a dog picks out a hat, and an ostrich chooses a handbag; a parrot is draped in a scarf while a deer reads at the center. Under a sky of feathers and flowers, the scene becomes a spectacular firework display of joy and color that lasts through the night. Artist's Story: Virginie Jamin is described as a beloved French children’s illustrator, and her drawing style has become a recognizable part of Hermès’ silk universe. Before being tapped for a major tableware collaboration, she had already designed an ashtray and 30 scarves for the house. In 2024, she worked with Hermès Tableware...
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 Pocket Square or Scarf Les Chevaux Se Rendent au Départ Jockey Print
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Pocket Square or Scarf Print: "LES CHEVAUX SE RENDENT AU DEPART " (the horses are heading to the starting point) Pattern: Jockey suits Made in France M...
Exceptional Hermès Gold Porcelain Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Tigre Royal
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Stunning Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: "TIGRE ROYAL" Designed by Christiane Vauzelles Made in France Made of porcelain, leaves, edges and notches hand painted with fin...
Auth. Silk Scarf Guepards Bandana - Double Face - Gris Perle Orange New S Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Guepards Bandana - Double Face - Gris Perle Orange - NWSTS - 2604131904 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill - Double-Sided Print Name Design: Guepards Bandana, Guepards Ba...
Hermes Birkin 25 Gray Swift Leather Silver Hardware T Stamp 2015
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Minor signs of use Accessories: KEY,LOCK,DUST BAG size: Width:25cm,height:20cm Designer: Hermes Model: Birkin 25 handbag Exterior Material: Leather Exterior Color: ...
Hermès Birkin 40 Gold Togo PHW
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
- Brown - Gold - Palladium hardware - Two rolled top handles - Front flap closure with twist-lock fastening - Comes with lock, clochette and keys - Stamp J square. Year 2006 - Condit...
Hermès Les Jardins d'Arménie Cigar Ashtray Cgange Tray Porcelain Gold Armenia
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Somptuous Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: "Les Jardins d'Arménie" (The Gardens of Armenia) Pattern: animals, flowers, columns, musician in the center Made in France Made of prin...
HERMÈS scarf PÉKINOIS Xavier De Poret 1965
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...
Hermès Cigar Ashtray Change Tray 2 Dogs by Cecil Aldin Porcelain
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Adorable Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: 2 dogs napping on an armchair Designed Cecil Aldin Made in France Made of printed porcelain, edges and notches hand-painted with...
New In Box Collectible Hermes Les Danses Des Indiennes Scarf by Kermit Oliver
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Rare Hermès Les Danses des Indiens silk scarf designed by Kermit Oliver. Hand rolled edges. Highly collectible. Brand new in unworn condition in original box.
New Hermès 30cm Black Epsom Gold Birkin Bag in Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès 30cm Birkin in black epsom leather with gold tone metal hardware. Handle drop, 3.75"L. Date stamp X for 2016. Brand new in box with full set: clochette, tirette, lock, two key...
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 Vintage 1970s Kelly 28 Navy Blue Box Calfskin Leather Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Midnight blue exterior - Comes with lock and key - No box or dustbag Condition: The bag is in overall great condition for its age, the bag has been retouched, the shape has ...
Hermes Alfred Messenger Bag Blue Clemence Leather Crossbody Stamp R 2014
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Normal signs of use, scratches on hardware, clean inside and out. size: Width:35cm,height:25cm Designer: Hermes Model: Alfred Messenger Bag Exterior Material: Leather ...
HERMES Sac à Dépêches 41 Black Togo Leather PHW Business Bag
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Accessories: No Accessories size: Width:41cm,height:31cm Designer: HERMES Model:Sac à Dépêches 41 Exterior Material: Leather Exterior Color: Black Interior Material: Leather ...
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 ...
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 Kelly Wallet Blue Epsom Palladium HW R Stamp Leather Clutch
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition:Slight signs of wear, clean inside and out. Accessories: Box size: Width:21cm,height:11.5cm Designe...
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...
Hermes Picotin Lock 18 PM Bag Red Taurillon Clemence Gold Hardware Stamp C 2018
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: Normal signs of wear, corner abrasion, minor scratches on hardware. Accessories: Dust bag,lock, k...
Auth. Hermès Scarf - Nous Sommes Inseparables - Bleu Ciel Marine - New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Nous Sommes Inseparables - Bleu Ciel Marine - NWSTS - 2604131722 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Name Design: Nous Sommes Inséparables, We Are Inseparable Artist: Flor...
1970s Hermès Small Size Black Panther Cotton Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes Small Size Multicolor “Black Panther” terry beach towel from Hermès Pre-Owned featuring a graphic “Black Panther” print, a blue border and a Hermès signature. 100% cotton. Ci...
Hermes Clic-H 21 Crossbody Clutch Bag Pink Evercolor Calfskin Leather
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: Good, Normal signs of wear. Minor scratches on hardware. Interior clean. Accessories: No Accessor...
Auth. Hermes Scarf - Harnais De Coeur - Gris Perle Rose Bonbon - New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Harnais De Coeur - Gris Perle Rose Bonbon - NWSTS - 2604131741 Brand: Hermès. Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill. Name Design: Harnais de Cœur, Not verified. Artist: Daiske Nomura. Siz...
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 Birkin 35 Black Epsonm Leather Gold Hardware Stamp X 2016
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Slight signs of use, clean inside and out. Accessories: Dust bag，key，lock size: Width:35cm Designer: Hermes Model:Birkin35 Exterior Material: Leather Exterior Color:...
Auth. Hermes Shawl - The Three Graces - CS140 - Rouge Bleu Marron New Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
The Three Graces - CS140 - Rouge Bleu Marron - NWST - 2604131912 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Shawl 140 Cashmere Silk Name Design: Les Trois Grâces, The Three Graces Artist: Alice Shir...
Hermes Rare Mini Evelyne Black Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès rare mini Evelyne shoulder bag in black taurillon clemence leather with gold tone hardware. Gently used. Date stamp Y, 2020. Shoulder drop, 22"L. Comes with booklet, original ...
HERMES Marron Fonce SHINY CROC KELLY 32 SELLIER Bag GHW
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Kelly 32 Sellier Bag in Marron is exquisitely crafted from shiny porosus crocodile leather, showcasing a rich, deep brown hue with a luminous finish. Const...
HERMES Hydra blue Togo leather EVELYNE 16 TPM Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Evelyne 16 crossbody bag in Bleu Hydra Taurillon Clémence leather. Designed in the house’s iconic, relaxed saddle silhouette, it features gold-plated hardware, ...
Hermès Brandebourgs Red Silk Waist Coat
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Brandebourgs Silk Waist Coat is 100% silk with sleeves and back in black cashmere, the front features Brandebourgs motif silk twill. The buttons are branded Hermes in gold col...
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 Kelly 32 Sellier Box Calf Black Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Kelly 32 Sellier in Noir features a single rolled top handle, detachable shoulder strap, signature straps, twist-lock closure, and a clochette with a lock and keys. Palladium ...
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 Vintage Porcelain Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Elephant India Asia
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Elephant dressed in his finest jewels Made in France Made of porcelain, edges and notches hand painted with fine gold Colorway...
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 ...
HERMES Blanc white Swift leather KELLY 35 FLAT Bag PHW
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gautier Kelly Flat 35 Bag in Blanc is crafted from smooth, supple Swift leather, offering a clean, minimalist expression of the iconic Kelly d...
HERMES Vache Naturelle leather & Khaki Toile KELLY 32 RETOURNE Bag PHW
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Kelly 32 Retourne bag is a timeless icon crafted in a refined combination of Naturelle Vache leather and Khaki Toile canvas. The Retourne style features so...
Hermes Nut Soft Leather Six Hook Clous de Selle Key Case
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes Nut soft leather six-hook “Clous de Selle” key-case featuring a tri-fold design, a logo press-stud fastening, silver-tone hardware, internal key hooks, an internal logo stam...
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.