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 Kelly 28 Sellier Vert Verone Green Epsom Leather Gold Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Absolutely Stunning Rare and Most Coveted color. Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Vert Verone Epsom Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. Pristine Condition with Plastic on all hardware and ...
Hermès Set of 2 Ties Castle and Fleur-de-Lis Prints in Silk
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Set of 2 Beautiful and Rare Authentic Hermès Ties Castle matches Fleur-de-lis, because the fleur-de-lys (in french) is the symbol of the coat of arms of royal France, at the time of the monarchy, kings and castles Left one: Castles print...
Hermes Kelly Retourne 28 Rose Extreme Matte Alligator Bag Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Kelly 28 bag featured in rich jewel toned Rose Extreme matte alligator. This iconic vibrant pink Hermes bag is timeless and...
Hermes Lazy Leopardesses Kaki Fonce Anthracite Beige Silk Scarf 90
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Lazy Leopardesses silk scarf featured in Kaki Fonce, Anthracite and Beige. This exquisite Hermes scarf depicts the graceful majesty of felines in rest. De...
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...
Hermes Limited Edition Cadena Bag U Black Tadelakt Leather
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes limited edition Cadena tote bag U featured in Black. Tadelakt leather with precision craftsmanship to create the iconic Cadena of the Birkin and Kelly bag...
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.
HERMES Piment red leather JUMPING Knee High Flat Boots Shoes 36
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 'Jumping Boots' in Piment veau swift leather with Ruthenium Kelly buckle. Brand new. Come with box and dust bag. Measurements Impr...
Exceptional Hermès Set of 2 Napkin Rings Stirrups Shaped in Silver-Gilt Texas
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous and Rare Authentic Hermès Napkin Rings Set of 2 In shape of Stirrups, horse riding theme Vintage items Made of silver-gilt (silver covered...
Hermes Kelly 32 Sellier Dark Chocolate Brown Box Leather Gold Hardware 1988
By Hermès
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Hermes Kelly 32 Sellier Dark Chocolate Brown Box Leather Gold Hardware 1988 These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. Condition: VERY GOOD CONDITION Overall...
HERMÈS "À VOS CRAYONS" silk scarf
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. c...
Hermes “Calligraphy” Mini Porcelain Ashtray Organizer
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès Ivory “Calligraphy” porcelain de Limoges mini organizer featuring a square shape, a under leather bottom, a side Hermes signature. Circa 2000s Made in Frace In good vintage ...
Hermes Men's Hooded Sweater Gris Fonce M
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Hooded Sweater featured in Grey with Black leather detail. Gris hoodie sweatshirt has a Black Cheval au Trait lambskin patch in front. Drawstring at neck....
Hermes Vintage Kelly 50 Red Bordeaux Gold Hardware Travel Carry On Duffle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Red Exterior - Gold Hardware - Should Strap - Lock & Key - Stamp D ( Year 2000 ) Condition: The bag is in great shape with no major imperfections, the bag has light p...
Hermes Kelly Ltd Edition Ghillies Bag In Ostrich Skin
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Collectors Item - Hermes Kelly Ltd Edition Ghillies Bag In Ostrich Skin Very rare, limited edition Kelly bag crafted from ostrich skin in blue sapphire, blue malte, and blue i...
Hermes BNIB Etoupe Red Avalon Blanket
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes new avalone red and etoupe blanket. 90% wool, 10% cashmere. Reversible. Comes with original box .
Hermes Tournois et Carrousels by Philippe Ledoux Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès "Tournois et Carrousels" by Philippe Ledoux silk scarf featuring an beige/grey border, a Hermès signature. Circa 1960s In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in. (90c...
Vintage Hermes "Grand Tenue" Multicolor Print Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Vintage Hermes "Grand Tenue" Multicolor Print Silk Scarf is an exquisite piece that showcases the brand’s unparalleled craftsmanship and vibrant artistry. Featuring a kaleidoscop...
Hermes Scarf Danse Pacifique Orange / Rose Vif Silk 90 New w/Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a guaranteed authentic Hermes Danse Pacifique Silk scarf by Laurence Bourthoumieux. Pays tribute to the culture of New Guinea. Features ...
Hermes Gold Togo Leather 25cm Birkin Bag Gold Hardware w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Gold Togo Leather 25cm Birkin Bag w/ Gold Hardware Made In: France Year of Production: 2019 Color: Gold- tan Hardware: Goldtone Materials: Togo leather Lining: Chevre leather...
Hermès Jaune Soufre "On the Beach" 90cm Silk Twill Scarf by Ugo Bienvenu NWT
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A striking and highly collectible Hermès "On the Beach" silk carré 90, designed by the acclaimed French illustrator and animator Ugo Bienvenu. Released for the Spring/Summer 2022 col...
HERMES black Epsom leather BEARN COMPACT Wallet Phw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Bearn Compact wallet in black Veau Epsom leather is a timeless accessory of refined craftsmanship. Featuring a structured silhouette, it closes with a leat...
Hermes Birkin 30 Trench togo palladium hardware bag
By Hermès
Located in London, England
Hermes Birkin 30 Bag in Trench Togo Leather with palladium hardware. Very neutral bag to complete your everyday look. Accompanied by the original dust bag, box, lock, key, clochette...
Hermès Bolide Gold Osier Barenia Calfskin Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Berlin, DE
Hermès Bolide in gold and osier wicker/barenia calfskin leather with palladium hardware. The bag is unworn but has very minor marks almost not visible due to the sensitive Barenia le...
Hermès Vert Jade Epsom Birkin 30 GHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Vert Jade Epsom Birkin 30 GHW SKU: Z151709 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: The elusive Birkin bag from Hermès was designed after then-artistic dire...
Hermes Etriviere Dog Collar Large Model New
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Guaranteed authentic Hermes Etriviere dog collar featured in Natural Sable natural bridle leather. Buckle is stirrup shape. D ring for a leash. 2cm ...
Hermes Birkin 25 Beige Marfa Togo Leather Gold Hardware New Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare and Most Coveted Hermes Birkin 25 Beige Marfa Togo Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. As New Plastic on all Hardware. B Stamp 2023. Please keep in mind that this isn't a ...
Hermès Small Silk Scarf Pocket Square Gavroche Au Pays Des Oiseaux Fleurs CHenry
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "Au Pays des Oiseaux-Fleurs" (in the land of the flower-birds) Pattern: Birds, Trees, Flowers Designed by Christine Henry in 2016 Made in Fra...
Hermès XXL Heeboo Handbag Toile
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Heeboo Handbag Toile XXL in excellent condition. The bag has a adjustable and detachable shoulder strap which measures 16 inches. It comes with th...
Hermes NIB Vert Vertigo Evelyne PM
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Evelyne is in Vert vertigo taurillon clemence leather with palladium hardware and has tonal stitching, pull tab top closure and a removable canvas and leather shoulder/cross bod...
Hermes Mosaique au 24 Van Quatre Gold Porcelain Bowl Set of 2
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermes Mosaique au 24 Van Quatre Gold Porcelain Bowl Set of 2 exemplifies exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious design. Featuring a vibrant mosaic print in shades of yellow, oran...
Hermès Charm Cupid Angel God of Love and Heart in Leather Petit h
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Please note: Cupid may appear blue. It is in fact lawn green Shapes: Cupid and Heart From the Petit h collection Made of leather Colorway: lawn g...
Hermès 2025 Etoupe Epsom Leather Evelyne TPM Sellier Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Etoupe Epsom Leather Evelyne TPM Sellier Product Details Xupes Ref: CB1584 Brand: Hermès Model: Evelyne TPM Type: Shoulder, Crossbody Serial Number: K Age: 2025 Accompanied B...
Hermes Quizz Rainbow Buckle Belt H Constance 38 mm White and Etoupe Epsom 90
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes limited edition reversible 38 mm Constance H belt featured in rare White and Etoupe. Beautiful with Quizz Rainbow buckle. In Epsom leather. These beautifu...
$274Sale Price|20% Off
Hermes Paris Vintage Silk Scarf Cheval Turc Christiane Vauzelles 1980s
By Hermès
Located in 'S-HERTOGENBOSCH, NL
A rare and captivating piece from the 1980s, this Hermès silk scarf, Cheval Turc, was designed by Christiane Vauzelles. Inspired by the elegance of Turkish horses, it features intric...
HERMES Mouette grey Clemence leather EVELYNE 33 Crossbody Bag Phw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Evelyne III 33 crossbody bag is crafted in Gris Mouette grey Clemence leather with palladium hardware. It features the house’s signature perforated H motif...
Hermes "La Prairie" 90 cm Green Flower Garden Print Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermes "La Prairie" 90 cm Green Flower Garden Print Silk Scarf is a stunning showcase of nature’s beauty, intricately detailed with vibrant florals that evoke the tranquility of ...
Hermès Epsom E-Zip iPad Notebook Cover
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Epsom E-Zip iPad Notebook Cover in Orange. This chic cover is crafted of calfskin leather in orange. The wrap around palladium zipper opens to a matching interior with po...
Hermès Bleu Zellige Togo Birkin 35 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Bleu Zellige Togo Birkin 35 PHW SKU: 153037 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: The elusive Birkin bag from Hermès w...
Iconic "Piano" top handle bag in black leather Hermès
By Hermès
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Iconic "Piano" top handle bag in black leather. 2 gold metal clasp closure . 2 compartments inside with 2 flat pockets and one pocket with zip closure. Black leather lining. SIZE : ...
Cute Hermès Budy Bag Charm Buddy Fox Terrier Dog Wool Sesame Leather
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Adorable Authentic Hermès Bag Charm In shape of a Fox Terrier dog Made of Merinos Wool and Milo lambskin Leather Colorway: Sesame Stamp U for 2022 "HERMÈS PARIS MADE IN FRANCE"...
Hermes Calya Mules Hetre Calfskin Clog 36 / 6
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers Hermes Calya Mule featured in Hetre. Smooth calfskin with H cutout detail. Light Beechwood sole. These chic casual shoes are the trend as ...
Hermes Kelly Depeches 38 Briefcase Electric Blue Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes coveted Kelly Depeches 38 briefcase. Very rare in Electric Blue. Epsom leather with Palladium hardware. Two large accord...
Hermes Change Tray Tigre Royal Or / Rose Hand Painted New w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Tigre Royal featured in Gold (Or) and Rose ashtray. Hand-painted Limoges Porcelain. This magnificent regal tiger is a co...
Collectible Hermès Pink Kachinas 55" Cashmere Scarf Shawl, Kermit Oliver
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès silk and cashmere blend oversize 55" shawl in Kermit Oliver's coveted Kachinas print. Hand-rolled edges. Box included.
Hermes Alfred 35 Leather Brown Men's Messenger Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: Noticeable wear, hardware scratches, scuffed corners, clean inside. Accessories: No Accessories ...
Hermes Tri Maillon Tresse Beanie Cap Beige Cashmere M
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Tri Maillon Beanie featured in Beige cashmere. Iconic Chaine d'Ancre pattern in relief with a braided detail in lambskin. 100% Cashmere and lambskin. Made in Italy See photos of matching gloves...
Raspberry leather gloves with "H" in silver metal Hermès (New with tag)
By Hermès
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Raspberry leather gloves with "H" in silver metal. Snap cover with leather under the hand. Hand-made top-stitching SIZE 7 1/2
Hermes Magnificent "Limited Edition" "Couvertures et Tenues Silk Jacquard Scarf
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes magnificent and elegant "Limited Edition" "Couvertures et Tenues" silk jacquard scarf designed by Jacques Eudel features poised horses wearing fine riding gears with a rich Co...
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 Belt Constance 42 mm Gold / Craie Brushed Gold Buckle 105
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Constance 42 mm belt featured in reversible Gold to Craie Epsom leather. Fabulous over sized brushed Gold signature H buckle. ...
HERMES Etain Clemence leather ETRIVIERE 40 Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Étrivière 40 belt is crafted from supple Clemence leather in the sophisticated shade of Etain and finished with a sleek palladium buckle. Showcasing Hermès...
Hermès Evelyne GM Orange Palladium
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Evelyne GM in orange taurillon clemence leather and palladium hardware. Shoulder drop, 18". Date stamp C for 2018. Comes with adjustable strap and original dust bag.
Hermes Magnificently "Concourse D'Elegance 1885 Limousines De Voyage" Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Magnificently detailed "Limited Edition" "Concourse D'Elegance 1885 Limousines De Voyage" silk jacquard scarf surrounded with midnight-black borders, and designed and s...
Hermes Ceres by Françoise Faconnet Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf Ceres by Françoise Faconnet featuring a blue border, and a top logo signature. Circa 1990s. In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in. (90cm) X 35,4in. (9...
Hermes 1990s Biblotheque by Hugo Grygkar Green Silk 90s Bodysuit
By Hermès
Located in San Diego, CA
Rare and collectible vintage F/W 96 HERMÈS silk jersey bodysuit ! Artist Hugo Grygkar designed this print, naming it “Biblotheque” Vibrant hues of ...
Hermes green pink TORANA 90 silk twill Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermes 'Torana 90' scarf by Annie Faivre in pistacio green (silk twill) with contrasting burgundy hem and details in pink, purple and blue. Has been worn and is in exc...
Hermès Jige Elan 29 Clutch in Swift Red Leather
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Jige Elan 29 Clutch in Swift Red Leather 2019 Collection Crafted in supple Swift leather of a vivid red hue, this elegant Hermès Jige Elan 29 features the iconic H-logo, wi...
HERMES papaya orange silk A PROPOS DES BOTTES 90 Twill Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 'A Propos de Bottes' 90 scarf in papaya orange silk twill (100%) with contrasting brown hem and details in gold, brown and vanilla. Has been worn and is in exce...
Hermes Birkin 35cm Himalayan Niloticus Crocodile Matte Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the epitome of luxury and sophistication, the Hermes Birkin 35 Himalayan Niloticus Crocodile with Matte Palladium Hardware. T...
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.