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 Swimsuit One piece Swimwear Bibliothèque Bookshelf Print Size M
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Swimsuit One piece Print "Bibliothèque" (Bookshelf) Pattern: Books Made in France Colorways: White, Yellow, Grey, Black Size: 40 FR / M Condition: New condition. Washed then never worn. No Hermès Packaging This swimsuit is garanteed authentic and will be shipped immediately Thank you for watching...
Hermès Silk Scarf On The Beach Ugo Bienvenu Pink Green 35'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "ON the BEACH Designed by Ugo Bienvenu in 2021 / 2022 Made in France Made of 100% Twill Silk Colorways: ROSE / VERT / ROUGE (Pink / Green ...
Hermès Curiosity Kelly Bag Charm Pendant Necklace Guilloche Permabrass
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Adorable Authentic Hermès Pendant In shape of a "Kelly" Bag The smallest version ever of the Iconic Kelly Bag It even has the padlock and clochette-tirette ! Made in France Made...
$1,980Sale Price|31% 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...
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...
Hermès NIB Gavroche twill Baobab Blue
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new "baobab" silk gavroche in blue. Comes with original box.
Hermès Rodeo Pegase Leather Bag Charm Horse Etoupe Biscuit PM
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Adorable Authentic Hermès Charm "Rodeo Pegase" in the most thought after colorway Made in France From 2023 (stamp B) Made of milo lambskin and swift calfskin leathers (smooth and...
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...
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 Paris Women's Constance Silver Buckle Ivory Leather Italian Loafers 1990s
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Paris Women's Constance brushed silver buckle bone leather Italian loafers Size 38 The bone color leather loafers are adorned with Hermes' ic...
Hermès German shepherd Print Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: an adorable german shepherd on a terrace with vegetation in the background Drawings are stunning ! Made in France Vintage ite...
Hermès Smooth Leather Jaune Milton Kellyfestival Kelly Bag Charm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Adorable Authentic Hermès Bag Charm "KELLYFESTIVAL" A cute small bag with the famous "Kelly Clasp" Perfect to quickly find your keys or your makeup if you hang it to your bag Ma...
Hermès Tied Up In Knots Silk Scarf Jonathan Burton 26'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "TIED UP IN KNOTS" Designed by Jonathan Burton First edition of 2022 Made in France Made of 100% "vintage" silk Colorways: BLEU / ORANGE ...
Hermès Belt Buckle Elephants in Golden Metal for 32 mm Belt
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful and Rare Authentic Hermès Belt Buckle In shape of 2 elephants Made of Golden Metal "HERMÈS" engraved at back For 32 mm belt (1,26 inches) Measurements: - 9 cm at long...
HERMES pink leather ORAN LIZARD Slides Sandals Shoes 40 fit 39
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Oran slide sandals in vibrant pink lizard leather, showcasing the house’s instantly recognizable minimalist elegance. Defined by the iconic “H” cut-out upper an...
Rare Hermès Vintage Silk Scarf Scotland Red Green Philippe Ledoux 35'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "SCOTLAND" Pattern: emblems of Scotland Vintage scarf designed by Philippe Ledoux in 1963 Made of silk Colorways: Red, Green, Yellow golden ...
Hermès Geegee Savannah Zebra Charm for Birkin Kelly Craie Noir Rose Pourpre
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Super Cute Authentic Hermès "Geegee" Charm Called "Savannah", this cute bag accessory is shaped as a zebra Made in France Stamp Z Made of Milo Lambskin Leather (smooth and soft) ...
Hermès Silver Cigar Cutter Keychain Louis XV Guillotine
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare Authentic Hermès Cigar Cutter The main part is a coin made of silver, called "Louis XV, demi-écu aux rameaux d’olivier, 1729" (Loui...
Auth. Hermes Silk Scarf - L art d'Ecrire - Jaune Orange - Mint Rare
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
L Art d'Ecrire - Black Vanilla - MCWCT - 1411150015 Brand: Hermès Type: Carré Artist : Maurice Tranchant Size : 90x90 cm / 35in x 35in Colour : Black Vanilla Type : 100% Silk Twill ...
Hermes Gold Gulliver Leather Plume 32 Hand Bag
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes Gold "Gulliver" leather "Plume 32" handbag featuring gold plated hardware, leather lining with slip pocket. You could fit a laptop inside. Circa 1996 (Z in a round) In good ...
HERMES Orange Minium & Fauv HERBAG ZIP CABINE 50 Bag Toile / Hunter
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Herbag Zip Cabine 50 Bag is a refined travel companion that fuses functionality with timeless style. Crafted from vibrant Orange Minium Toile Militaire can...
Cute Hermès Silk Scarf Brides de Gala Bandana Navy White 55 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "BRIDES DE GALA" in Bandana Version Pattern: Brides de Gala on polka dot and stars background, paisley print borders Most iconic and sold, ...
Hermès Cashmere Silk Shawl Brandebourgs Latham 55'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Shawl in the most coveted colorway Print: "BRANDEBOURGS" Designed by Caty Latham in 1972, this shawl is from 2015 Made in France Made of 65% Cashmere an...
Hermès Large Terry Towel Golf Clubs and Balls Embroidered
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Towel Embroidered with a coat of arms featuring two crossed golf clubs with a ball at their end Made in France Vintage ite...
Hermès Hunter Herbag Zip 31 PM Red
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This is an authentic HERMES Toile Militaire Vache Hunter Herbag Zip Retourne PM 31 in red leather. This stylish tote is crafted of sturdy toile canvas. It features a rear exterior zi...
$33,489Sale Price|20% Off
Exceptional Hermès Passe Guide Bag Shiny Ebene Porosus Crocodile Ghw RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
There's the Kelly, the Birkin, the Constance, and the PASSE-GUIDE Bag ...! To me, the most beautiful Purse Ever! Here is a rare opportunity to get an exceptional Authentic Hermès P...
$5,742Sale Price|20% Off
Exceptional Hermès Vintage Glika Bag Rouge H Box Leather Golden Hdw 28 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful and Rare Authentic Hermès Bag "GLIKA" Made in France Vintage item Outside made of Box Smooth Leather, Inside lined with finely grained leather Colorway: Rouge H (Hermè...
Hermès 9 Wood Cubes Game Puzzle Epopee
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Cubes Game Create 6 images using 9 printed wooden cubes Made of printed maple wood Made in Germany Designed by Jan Bajtlik The set will come complete wit...
Hermès Duck Shaped Change Tray Ashtray Ravinet d'Enfert
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptonal and Rare Authentic Hermès Tray In shape of a Duck The 2 wings open and reveal a storage space. Wings are removable. Can also be us...
Hermes Drag De Voyage Travel Bag Tan Brown Leather Carry On Luggage Top Handle
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Brown leather exterior - Silver colored hardware - No dustbag Condition: The bag is in overall great condition, has some minor discoloration on the piping throughout t...
Hermès 2025 Chale Maxi Triangle Robe Legere Cashmere Silk Scarf Shawl Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Maxi Triangle scarf/shawl in cashmere (70%) and silk, featuring the Robe Légère print by Théo de Gueltzl in shades of orange on an ecru background, with hand-rolled orange edg...
Hermès Cotton Scarf Carré Le Boubou H Blue Grey Horse Pattern Texas 65 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Pattern: "Le Boubou H" Horse riding theme: horseshoe, spur, stirrup, boots, saddle, whip, horse, but also watch, "clou de selle", padlock From the...
Exceptional Hermès Shoulder Bag Purse Green-Grey Lizard Gold Hdw RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous and rare Authentic Hermès Bag Made in France Vintage bag, no stamp Made of Lizard and Golden Hardware Lined with smooth lambsink Leather Colorway: green-grey 1 main co...
Hermès Change Tray Ashtray Setter Dog carrying a Kelly Bag
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Adorable Authentic Hermès Change tray Print: Dog carrying a Kelly bag Can be used as ashtray, but no notches for that purpose Made of Porcelain Colo...
Hermès Bleu Iris Ostrich Leather Kelly 20cm II Sellier
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
"Hermès Bleu Iris Ostrich Leather Kelly 20cm II Sellier Product Details Xupes Ref: MML036 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 20cm II Type: Top Handle, Shoulder Serial Number: C Age: 2018 Ac...
Excetional Hermès Lucky Charm Key Ring Horseshoe Green Crocodile Texas
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Key Ring Please choose seller shipping for this item Can be used as key holder or bag charm In shape of a Horseshoe Horseshoe is a lucky charm symbol of luc...
Hermès Ebene Matte Niloticus Crocodile Leather Toile Interior Vintage Birkin 30c
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Ebene Matte Niloticus Crocodile Leather Toile Interior Vintage Birkin 30cm Retourne Product Details Xupes Ref: MML030 Brand: Hermès Model: Birkin 30cm Type: Tote Serial Numbe...
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...
Exceptional Hermès Vintage Padlock Purse Clutch Bag Shiny Brown Crocodile Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Beautiful Authentic Hermès Bag "Padlock" Purse Very rare ! Asymmetrical cut of the flap for a chic and elegant rendering Made in France Stamp N in a circle (1984) Pu...
$4,785Sale Price|20% Off
Rare Hermès Vintage Sumac Travel Riding or Picnic Bag Canvas Leather 50 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
RARE Authentic Hermès Bag "SUMAC" Made in France Stamp X in circle (1994) Made of : Canvas (Toile), grained and smooth leathers, golden hardware Colorways: Beige, White, Naturel...
Hermès 1969 Vide Poche Cendrier Equitation Japonaise Ashtray Trinket Bowl Hermes
By Francoise de la Perriere, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès porcelain ashtray or trinket tray, featuring a motif from the "Japanese Riding" scarf by Françoise de la Perrière, published in 1969 and never reissued, in gold and orange ton...
Hermès Constance Slim Belt Wallet in Taupe Epsom with Gold Hardware - '20s
By Hermès
Located in Milano, Lombardia
A refined expression of Hermès craftsmanship, this Constance Slim Belt Wallet is crafted in structured Epsom leatherin a sophisticated taupe tone with warm undertones, part of the Ma...
Hermès Vintage Pola Purse Clutch Evening Bag 2 ways Black Ostrich Golden Hdw
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Purse "Pola" Made in France No stamp but vintage Made of Ostrich Leather and Golden Hardware Ostrich ...
Hermès Orange H Epsom Leather Birkin 36cm HAC
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Orange H Epsom Leather Birkin 36cm HAC Product Details Xupes Ref: CB1658 Brand: Hermès Model: Birkin 36cm HAC Type: Tote Serial Number: [K] Age: 2007 Accompanied By: Hermès D...
Hermes Gold Leather Poche Cloche Vanity Clutch
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes Gold leather “Poche Cloche” vanity clutch featuring a strap with gold-tone metal clips & zipper, gold-plated hardware, a nylon lining, a top zip opening, inside logo stamp.Cou...
Hermès Charm Cupid Angel and God of Love in Leather Petit h
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Adorable Authentic Hermès Charm In shape of Cupid From the Petit h collection Made of leather Colorway: burgundy This charm adorned the packaging of a small h item, so it has on...
Hermès Fauve Barenia Leather & Beechwood Perspective Cavalière Kelly Wood 22cm
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Fauve Barenia Leather & Beechwood Perspective Cavalière Kelly Wood 22cm Product Details Xupes Ref: MML041 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly Wood 22cm Type: Top Handle, Shoulder Seri...
Super Cute Hermès Silk Tie Kala's Family Monkeys Prints
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Adorable and Funny Authentic Hermès Tie From the "KALA'S FAMILY" collection Prints: Dangling Monkeys Made in France Made of 100% Silk Colorways: CIEL / VERT / BLEU CLAIR ( Sky B...
Hermès Bolide 27cm Turquoise Chevre Mysore Leather w PH
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Bolide 27cm in Turquoise Chevre Mysore with Palladium hardware offers a more dynamic, color-forward take on the house’s classic zip silhouette, where the compact 27cm size kee...
Hermes Natural Toile Fourre Tout du Cavalier Tote Carry On Duffle Travel Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Beige Toile exterior - Detachable crossbody strap - Zipped interior pocket Condition: The bag is in overall decent condition it has marks on the exterior and the bottom...
Hermès Sac Birkin Shoulder 42 Togo Ciel
By Hermès
Located in Torre Del Greco, IT
Hermès signature bag, Sac Birkin Shoulder model in size 42. Made of Togo leather in sophisticated ciel color with silver hardware. Features the classic flap with interlocking closure...
HERMES black Box leather CONSTANCE 40 Belt 70
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic vintage Hermès Constance waist belt is crafted from black Veau Box leather and finished with the iconic gold-plated “H” buckle. A timeless Hermès classic, it comb...
Hermès Wrap Skirt in Woll and Cashmere Size 36 Small
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Skirt "Wrap Skirt" Made in France Probably vintage Made of 90% Wool and 10% Cashmere Top is lined with a beige canvas made of Acetate and Bemberg Colo...
Hermès Natural Sable Ardennes Birkin 40 Brushed PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Natural Sable Ardennes Birkin 40 Brushed PHW SKU: Z154271 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: The elusive Birkin bag from Hermès was designed after the...
Hermès Chapeau Bonnet T55 Ecru Wool Whipcord Miki Hat US6 7/8 or 21.5 in Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès hat or beanie in ecru and beige wool whipcord, with a wide brim and beige satin lining. Size FR 55, which is US 6 7/8 or 21.5 inches. The beanie is vintage but in very good co...
Hermès Constance Elan in Rose Scheherazade Porosus Crocodile - '10s
By Hermès
Located in Milano, Lombardia
A statement of rarity, craftsmanship, and timeless desirability, this Hermès Constance Elan, crafted in 2016, is made in the most precious leather used by the Maison: Porosus Crocodi...
HERMES white & black leather 32MM REVERSIBLE H Buckle Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès 32mm reversible belt in Blanc (white) Veau Epsom leather and Noir (black) Veau Swift leather showcases timeless versatility. Finished with a classic H buck...
HERMES Circus Nappy Bag red white embroidered cotton canvas tote bag towel set
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Circus Nappy Bag red white embroidered cotton canvas tote bag towel set Reference: KYCG/A00224 Brand: Hermes Model: Circus Nappy Bag Material: Canvas Color: White, Multicolour...
HERMES Gold Togo Marron Fonce Box REVERSIBLE 32MM H Buckle Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès 32mm reversible belt in Gold (camel) Veau Togo leather and Marron Foncé (dark brown) Veau Box leather showcases timeless versatility. Finished with a class...
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"...
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.