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 Kelly II Retourne 35cm Graphite Veau Taurillon Clemence PHW
By Hermès
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A lovely Hermès Kelly II Retourne 35cm bag. The exterior of this Kelly is crafted in Graphite Veau Taurillon Clemence leather and is detailed with palladium hardware. It features a f...
Hermes pants 'Do Re Boucles' by Nadege Vanhee 2023
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - 2023 ready-to-wear Collection, under the artistic direction of Nadège Vanhee, designed by Florence Manlik. Silk pants printed with the "Do Re Boucles" theme in pink and bro...
Hermès "Carré en Carrés" Rare Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Carré En Carrés Patchwork Motif scarf is 100% silk, features multi prints, and rolled edges. Designed by Bali Barret, first edition ...
Hermès Menthe Clemence Jypsiere 34 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Menthe Clemence Jypsiere 34 PHW SKU: Z157773 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Founded in Paris in 1837 as a harness workshop, Hermès has grown into o...
HERMÈS HARNAIS de CÉRÉMONIE 1959 silk Scarf designed by Grygkar Hugo
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Ceremonial Harness Silk Scarf This scarf is a testament to the House of Hermès, both for its age (67 years) and its equestrian theme. The design is finely traced with arabesqu...
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...
Hermes Exhibition Japan Limited Voyage En Terre D'Etoiles Backpack
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes 2000s Blue Exhibition Japan Limited "Voyage en Terre d'Etoiles" backpack bag featuring blue nylon fabric, "Voyage en Terre d'Etoiles" print, front flap closure, shoulder strap...
Hermes Constance Slim Wallet Waist Belt Bag Etoupe Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Constance Slim Wallet Belt bag featured in neutral Etoupe. This Hermes wallet is stunning with coveted Gold hardware ...
HERMES Toffee Bordeaux Lime Evercolor leather MAXIBOX CABAS 36 Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès tricolor Maxibox Cabas 36 tote in Toffee brown Veau Evercolor leather with Lime and Bordeaux Epsom trimmings. Lined in off-white canvas with one zipper pocket a...
Hermès Petit H Multi Color Mini Rectangle Bag So Black
By Hermès
Located in Sydney, New South Wales
Brand: Hermès Petit H Style: Rectangle Bag Color: Bordeaux, Colvert & Jaune Ambre Leather: Vache Hunter & Shiny Alligator Hardware: So Black Stamp: 2020 Condition: Pristine: The pr...
Hermes Collier de chien leather belt brown gold
By Hermès
Located in 10707, DE
Wunderschönes Vintage-Hundehalsband mit Gürtel aus Leder in der Farbe Gold aus dem Hause Hermès. Modell: Hundehalskette Material: Leder Braune Farbe Größe 70 Vergoldetes Metall 5 Löc...
Red Epsom Sellier Kelly 35 Bag
By Hermès
Located in Athens, GA
Hermes Red Kelly 35 Bag. Epsom sellier leather. Palladium silver hardware. Good condition. Interior clean. O stamp from 2011. Includes clochette, lock, keys, and dust bag. Guaranteed...
Hermes Anthracite/ Vert/ Quetsche Cannes Et Cannes Scarf 90cm Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Anthracite/ Vert/ Quetsche Cannes Et Cannes Scarf 90cm Silk Scarf by Virginie Jamin Made In: France Color: Dark grey, green, multi, orange ...
Hermès Fleurs de Lotus Scarf, Vauzelles
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Collectible Hermès Fleurs de Lotus silk scarf by Christiane Vauzelles. 100% silk twill with hand-rolled edges. Does not include box. Minor stains .
Hermes Pink Togo Leather Dogon Duo Bifold Wallet Clou de Selle
By Hermès
Located in Rome, Rome
Embrace the elegance of Hermes with this exquisite Dogon Duo Bifold Wallet, a masterpiece of French craftsmanship. This medium-sized unisex treasure is meticulously crafted from luxu...
Hermès Sellier Limited Edition Jumping Bridle Black Leather Red Stitch Reins
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers this Hermès limited edition Sellier jumping bridle is crafted in black leather with distinctive red topstitching and includes matching reins. The contrast stitching...
Hermes Apple White Porcelain Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes white, yellow, green and gold porcelain ashtray with a big apple and flowers design. Excellent condition.
Hermès Kelly Waffle Sellier 32 Rouge H Evercalf Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Berlin, BE
Hermès Kelly Waffle Sellier 32 in rouge h and evercalf leather with palladium hardware. The bag is in good condition but shows some signs of wear: minor scratches almost not visible ...
Hermès Silk Scarf Les Triplés Triplets Nicole Lambert Orange 90 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Pattern: "Les Triplés" (Triplets) Super cute ! Adorable ! A must have for any Hermès Lover Designed by Nicole LAMBERT in 2005 Made in France M...
Hermès Kelly 28cm Epsom Sellier Jaune de Naples Yellow With Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This Hermès Kelly 28cm Sellier is crafted in structured Epsom leather, offering a crisp, sculpted silhouette that holds its shape with effortless elegance. The Jaune de Naples...
Small silk printed scarf made of two lays Hermès NEW with tag
By Hermès
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Small silk printed scarf made of two lays. SIZE 70cm X 68cm NEW with tag
Hermès New Kelly 18 White Rose Gold
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès white leather belt in Epsom calfskin with rose gold kelly buckle. Plastic on hardware. Thanks to a clever sliding system, this one-size-fits-most belt may be worn at the waist...
Hermes Kelly 18 Noir Epsom Calfskin Leather with Kelly Buckle Belt Rose Gold
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
The Hermès Kelly 18 Belt Inspired by the legendary Kelly bag, this belt features the unmistakable turn-lock clasp, transforming classic Hermès craftsmans...
Hermès 2012 Geranium Togo Leather Kelly 35cm Retourne Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Geranium Togo Leather Kelly 35cm Retourne Product Details Xupes Ref: CB1443 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 35cm Type: Top Handle, Shoulder Serial Number: [P] Age: 2012 Accompanie...
Hermès Silk Scarf "Pelages et Camouflage" 2010
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Silk Scarf "Pelages et Camouflage" 2010. This beautiful scarf was designed in 2010 by Aline Honorè, with only one edition this piece can be considered a collectible making it ...
Hermes Sun Print Soleil Pareo Shawl NEW in Box
By Hermès
Located in Ardmore, PA
Hermes Sun Print Soleil Pareo Shawl NEW in Box
Hermès New Sage Mini Evelyne Gold
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
The Hermès mini Evelyne shoulder bag in sage clemence leather and gold plated hardware, with one removable strap, can be worn on the shoulder or across the body. Date stamp B. Brand...
Exceptional Hermès Vintage 6 Tobacco Pipes Stand Rack Holder RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Stunning and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Stand Rack for 6 Tobacco Pipes Rare vintage item Can be used for anything else Made of non precious metal Colorway: Silvery "HERMÈS PARIS" and craftman hallmark engraved at back 2 animal heads at top of the stand Measurements: - 15 cm high (5,91 inches) - 16 cm at longest (6,3 inches) - 11,5 cm at widest (4,53 inches) Condition: Excellent. Original shape. No missing part. Clean and shiny. Scratches on the base No Hermès packaging...
Hermes Zebra Pegasus Giant Triangle Scarf Marine Cashmere and Silk Shawl
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a limited edition Hermes Zebra Pegasus Giant Triangle cashmere and silk shawl. Beautifully detailed multi colour wings. Designed by Alice Shirley. Marine colorway. ...
Hermès Carré en Carrés Silk Jersey Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Carré en Carrés" is in 100% silk jersey with contrast white trim edges, designed by artist Bali Barret.
Hermes by Martin Margiela Belted Long Robe Coat w/ Hood in Black Cotton Cashmere
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
HERMES BY MARGIELA BELTED LONG ROBE COAT W/ HOOD IN BLACK COTTON CASHMERE 44 FR Oversized silhouette with removable belt with dark brown plastic buckle. Wide sleeves with button det...
Hermès Scarf "Alternateur" 1971
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Hermès scarf Alternateur, designed by Pierre Péron in 1971. The almost transparent silk is beautiful and iconic. Vintage editions of Alternateur are sought after by collectors. I...
Hermes Black Crocodile Constance bag
By Hermès
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This Constance is of Black shiny alligator with rose gold hardware and features tonal stitching, a "H" snap lock closure, and an adjustable shoulder strap. The interior is lined with black lambskin and has an open pocket on the front wall, and two main compartments. Length: 7" Width: 2" Height: 6' Brand new, never been used. Clear covers are still on hardware. Comes with original duster bag...
New Hermes Kelly 25 Graphite Madame VEAU Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
The Hermès Kelly 25 Sellier in Graphite Madame Veau leather with Palladium Hardware (PHW) is a masterclass in understated elegance and technical refinement. This piece is distinguish...
New Hermes Promenade Silk Medium Scarf in Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes medium scarf in pure silk "promenade " by Ledoux. Hand rolled edges. New in box.
Hermés Birkin 30cm Touch Noir Taurillon Novillo/ Bleu Marine Niloticus Lisse PHW
By Hermès
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A gorgeous Hermès Touch Birkin 30 cm bag. The exterior of this Birkin "Touch" features noir taurillon novillo and bleu marine niloticus lisse leather with palladium hardware. The ext...
Hermès 2025 Constance To Go Rose Azalée Epsom Leather Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Houston, TX
Classy Hermes Constance To Go shoulder bag in Rose Azalée Epsom calf leather With silver palladium metal hardware, a removable pink Epsom leather handle allowing hand, shoulder, or ...
Hermes Shawl Clic Clac a Pois - CS140 - Ardoise Aubergine Fuchsia New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Clic Clac a Pois - CS140 - Ardoise Aubergine Fuchsia - NWSTS - 1703011404 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Shawl 140 Cashmere Silk Name Design: Clic-Clac à Pois, Clic-Clac with Dots Artist...
Hermés Kelly Sellier 25cm Rose Pourpre Epsom PHW
By Hermès
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A spectacular Hermès 25cm Kelly bag. The exterior of this Kelly features a Sellier style in Rose Pourpre leather. The Rose Pourpre leather is complemented with palladium hardware and...
Hermès Etoupe Epsom Constance Slim Wallet PHW
By Hermès
Located in Geneva, CH
Pre-owned but never used this Constance Slim Wallet from the house of Hermès is hand made. It features a "H" closure in palladium plated, 2 credit cards slot and a removable change p...
Hermès "Sun" Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Rare Serviette / Drap / Tapis de plage Hermès vintage "Gloria Soli" 100% Coton. Dimensions : H: 90 x L: 150 cm
Hermes Kelly Depeches 25 Pouch Matte Gold Alligator Palladium
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Kelly Depeches 25 Pouch featured in Gold matte Alligator. Fabulous unisex Hermes clutch that is perfect for day to ...
Hermes Mosaique 24 Gold Rice Bowl Set
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Looking to spice up your kitchen sets? Hermes has you covered with these gorgeous bowl sets! Hermes prooves even your kitchen cabinets could use a splash Hermes elegance with these p...
Hermes Silk Scarf - Les Plaisirs Du Froid - Blue - Excellent Condition!!
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Les Plaisirs Du Froid - Blue - EXCWOCT - 1201011848 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Name Design: Les Plaisirs du Froid, The Pleasures of the Cold Artist: Hugo Grygkar ...
HERMES pink silk JEU DE SOIE Twilly Scarf Fuchsia Rouge Mutlicolore
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermes 'Jeu de Soie Twilly' scarf in red silk twill (100%) with details in yellow, green, fuchsia, purple and white. Brand new, with tags. Measurements Width 5cm (2in...
Sac Hermès HAC 28 Orange Epsom
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Sac Hermès HAC 28 en cuir Epsom Orange H avec finitions palladium. Datant de 2007, il est présenté dans un excellent état. Une version rare du célèbre Haut à Courroies. Ce sac Hermè...
Hermès Large Panier De Plage with Pouch 221032 Beige X Orange Canvas Tote
By Hermès
Located in Dix hills, NY
Date/style Code: no date code Made In: France Measurements: Length: 21.25" Width: 7" Height: 13" Handle drop: 5.5" GOOD VINTAGE CONDITION (7/10 or B) Includes Zip Pouch Sign...
Hermès Blue Bird Gold Porcelain Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès signature ashtray with blue bird design in orange and gold. Suede stamped bottom. Made in France. Special edition with bottom foil. No box.
Hermès Ecru Beige Naturel Criss Viking Hunter Sable Herbag Zip Cabine 50 Bag
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Ecru Beige Naturel Criss Viking Hunter Sable Herbag Zip Cabine 50 Bag SKU: 156047 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Founded in Paris in 1837 as a har...
Hermès Clemence Mangeoire Bucket PM Bag
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Clemence Mangeoire Bucket PM Bag - In good condition, shows slight signs of wear - Brown grained leather Hermès handbag, ideal for daytime use - Brown leather han...
Hermès Scarf "Luna Park" 1993
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Hermès "Luna Park" scarf, designed by Joachim Metz and first issued in 1993, is a vibrant homage to the whimsical charm of early 20th-century amusement parks. In good condition....
HERMES Vert Criquet green Epsom & Swift SANGLE KELLY POCKET 50mm Bag Strap
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Kelly Pocket bag strap in Vert Criquet (pastel green) Veau Swift leather is a striking blend of style and utility. It features a bold flap pocket crafted i...
Hermès New Tropical Garden Silk Gavroche
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès brand new in box tropical garden pastels silk gavroche. Hand-rolled edges. Comes with original box.
Hermès Kelly Mini II Tricolore Verso Craie/Mauve Pale/Gold Veau Epsom PHW
By Hermès
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A gorgeous Hermès Kelly Mini II Tricolore Verso handbag. The exterior of this Kelly Mini features Craie, Mauve Pale and Gold Veau Epsom leather and is compl...
Hermès Silk Scarf "Chevalerie" 1967
By Caty Latham, Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Silk Scarf "Chevalerie" 1967. This beautiful scarf was designed by Caty Latham in 1967, with only one edition this scarf can be considered a collectible and is really sought a...
Hermes Kelly 25 Sellier Special Order Craie Rose Azalee Pink Epsom Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
RARE MOST WANTED Hermes Kelly 25 Special Order Sellier Craie and Rose Azalee Epsom Leather. Complimented by Pink interior, Pink Contrast ...
Hermès Kelly 25cm Blue Atoll Epsom Leather w Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Fresh yet impeccably refined, this Hermès Kelly 25cm in Blue Atoll captures the house’s mastery of color through a shade that feels both luminous and serene. The tone evokes clear tr...
Archival Hermès Paris Les Cartes à Nouer Knotting Cards No. 5
By Hermès
Located in 'S-HERTOGENBOSCH, NL
A truly elegant and rare archival treasure from the house of Hermès — the coveted “Cartes à Nouer” (Knotting Cards) Set No. 5. Cards are sealed. This collectible set includes beautif...
HERMÈS Bolide 1995 Tan Leather Bag GHW Vintage
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
HERMÈS Bolide 1995 Tan Leather Bag GHW Vintage A timeless classic vintage 1995 Hermès Bolide bag in cavalerie tan-gold colour in Courchevel leather wit...
Hermès "Faune et Flore du Texas" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès "Faune et Flore du Texas" Scarf was created on the 150th anniversary of Texas independence. Made from 100% silk. Highly collectible design by Kermit Oliver.
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.