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 by H.d Origny Black Silk Ascot Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès black silk scarf ascot by H.d' Origny featuring an all-over print, a yellow border and a center pleat. Circa 1970s 100%silk In good vintage condition. Made in France. 42.1 in...
Hermès Violet Epsom 32 cm Kelly Sellier
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This authentic Hermès Violet Epsom 32 cm Kelly Sellier is in pristine condition with the protective plastic intact on the hardware. Hermès bags ...
Hermes Tohubohu Pouch Orange / Craie Medium Model New
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Tohubohu Pouch Medium model featured in Orange and Craie. A multifunctional piece in butter soft Milo Lambskin. Top zip has Craie swift leather pull. Tone...
Hermès New Tea Time Celeste Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new Tea Time celeste silk scarf. Hand rolled edges. Comes with original box.
$425Sale Price|20% Off
HERMÈS - Vintage Aviator Hat in Lambskin Leather, Size 59, Excellent
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Bellissimo cappello modello aviatore in caldissima pelle di agnello taglia 59, venduto con scatola originale. Ottime condizioni etichett...
Hermes Kelly Mini 20 Moutarde Yellow Chèvre Leather Palladium Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare and Most Coveted Hermes Mini Kelly 20 Moutarde Yellow Chèvre Leather Complimented by Palladium Hardware. New, W Stamp 2024. Additional Information: Condition: New without tag...
Hermes Kelly 25 Sellier Rose Jaipur Pink Epsom Leather Gold Rare Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare Most Coveted Hermes Kelly 25 Sellier Rose Jaipur Epsom Leather with. Complimented by Gold Hardware. Excellent Pristine Condition, Plastic on all Hardware. Please keep in mind...
Hermès Silk Scarf "Les Petits Métiers De Paris" 2006
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Silk Scarf "Les Petits Métiers De Paris" 2006. Please note this item is in good condition with minor wear consistent with age and use. This beautiful scarf was designed by Kar...
Hermes jersey dress by Vladimir Rybaltchenko circa 1970-1980
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - A ready-to-wear Collection circa 1970-1980 under the artistic direction of the Russian designer Vladimir Rybaltchenko. Silk jersey dress in yellow, gray, and beige tones. I...
HERMES Muscat taupe Eversoft suede COLLIER DE CHIEN 50 Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Collier de Chien 50 belt is crafted in Muscat (taupe) Veau Eversoft unbuckle leather with contrasting white stitching and finished with palladium-plated Mé...
Hermès Evelyne GM Red Ardennes
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Evelyne GM featuring Ardennes leather in red. It comes with palladium gold hardware and has a shoulder strap made of fabric. Date stamp Y in a circle. The bag is in excellent...
HERMES Marine blue suede NEO Ankle Boots Shoes 40
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Neo ankle boots in Marine (navy blue) suede are a refined fusion of equestrian inspiration and timeless elegance. Designed with wrap-around ankle straps a...
Hermès Tropical Garden Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès brand new in box tropical garden silk scarf. Hand-rolled edges.
Hermès Toile & Vache Leather Hunter Herbag Zip 31 Bag & Matching Pouch
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Brand New - Hermès Toile & Vache Leather Hunter Herbag Zip 31 Bag & Matching Pouch Iconic handbag crafted from a combination of Toile canvas in Jaune de Naples for the main body and...
Hermes Cabine 55 Surfer Rolling Mobility Suitcase
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermes Cabine 55 Surfer Rolling Mobility Suitcase is an exquisite piece that combines functionality with high-fashion aesthetics. Adorned with a vibrant print of surfboards set a...
HERMÈS silk scarf EX-LIBRIS À CARREAUX
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
HERMÈS Silk scarf Title: EX LIBRIS À CARREAUX Designed by Anamorphée Year: 2014 100% silk with hand-rolled edges cm. 90xcm.90 circa Made in France Blue dur/Fuchsia/ Violet Conditio...
Hermes 1960s La Rosee Silk Shawl
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the Hermes 1960s La Rosee Silk Shawl, a truly exquisite and rare piece that epitomizes the timeless elegance and luxury of Hermes. Crafted from the finest silk, this shawl features the iconic 'La Rosee' floral print, depicting various light pink and green roses adorned with whimsical water droplets throughout. The intricate and detailed design of the shawl is a testament to Hermes' renowned craftsmanship and artistry. Each rose and water droplet is meticulously rendered, creating a stunning and lifelike depiction that is sure to capture attention. With its large size, this Hermes silk shawl...
Hermès 1994 Vintage Gold Courchevel Leather Kelly 20cm Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Gold Courchevel Leather Vintage Kelly 20cm Product Details Xupes Ref: JJLG123 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 20cm Type: Top Handle Serial Number: (X) Age: 1994 Accompanied By: He...
Hermes Kelly Clemence Leather Retourne 40cm Bag
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Collectors Item - Hermes Kelly Clemence Leather Retourne 40cm Bag True investment piece - Kelly bag crafted from Hermes's iconic Clemence leathe...
S/S 1994 Hermès Runway Jardin Créole Black Green Silk Bralette Top Set FR38
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting a beautiful 'Creole Garden' jungle print Hermès bralette crop top and silk shirt set. From the Spring/Summer 1994 collection, this set debut...
Hermes Sandal Flat Oran Etoupe Epsom 36.5 / 6.5 New w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers Hermes Oran sandal shoes featured in neutral Etoupe Epsom leather. The iconic top stitched H cutout over the top of the slide. Matching embossed calfskin insole. W...
Hermès Blue Texas Wildlife Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Texas Wildlife 35" scarf by designer Kermit Oliver in blue and burgundy combo. Hand-rolled edges. Excellent condition with no flaws.
Hermes Concours d'Elegance Scarf in Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes Magnificently detailed "Limited Edition" "Concourse D'Elegance 1885 Limousines De Voyage" silk jacquard scarf designed and signed by Kermit Oliver. ...
Hermès Black Leather Collier de Chien 50 Belt
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Hermès Black Leather Collier de Chien 50 Belt is a striking high-end accessory that exemplifies luxury craftsmanship and bold design. Crafted from black leather, it features distinct...
Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Pink Rose Lipstick Gris Tourterelle Togo Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Stunning Rare Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Special Order Rose Lipstick & Gris Tourterelle Togo Leather Complimented by Brushed Gold Hardware. As New. Plastic on all Hardware. Please k...
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 Concours D Etriers Carree Geant Silk 140 - Mint Condition
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Concours D Etriers Carre Geant Silk 140 - MWOCT - 2406081640 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Carré Géant 140 Silk Twill Name Design: Concours d’Étriers, Stirrup Competition Artist: Virgin...
1972 Hermès Navy “Cliquetis” by Julia Abadie 90cm Silk Twill Scarf
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Hermès scarves, first introduced in 1937, have become iconic symbols of French luxury and craftsmanship, celebrated for their exquisite silk, hand-rolled edges, and artful prints tha...
1990's Vintage Hermès Paradis Du Roi Dark Red Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Shawl is from the 90's and belongs to the "Le Paradis du Roy" edition. The cashmere is so soft that you don't actually wanna take it off again. It's a beautiful piece for...
Hermès Constance 18 bag in craie and rose gold hardware
By Hermès
Located in London, England
Hermès Constance 18 in Craie evercolor leather with Rose-Gold hardware, a sought-after champagne hue. Year 2025. Very practical with the crossbody strap. This mini size offers room ...
Hermès Enamel Printed Scarf Ring Brazil Feathers with Gold Hdw
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Ring Print: "BRAZIL" Pattern: feathers Made in France Stamp Q (2013) Made of Printed Enamel and Gold Plated Hardware Colorways: Coral, Pink, Red, Black Measurements: 2,5 cm Diameter / 2,5 cm Height (0,98 inch) Condition: New Condition. No signs of use. Would make a great gift ! Will come in a Hermès packaging...
Hermès Paris Belt Shaped Money Clip Silver
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Clip Can be used for money, paper, anything you need to clip In shape of a belt (can not be opened) Vintage Item Made of silver 800 Colorway: silvery "HER...
Hermes indoor coat 'Library' 2008s
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - (Made in France) Silk indoor coat with the 'Library' theme designed by Hugo Grygkar, bottom of the coat edged with multicolored fringes, matching belt. Size 40FR indicated. ...
Hermès Red Foure Tout GM Tote bag 11her104
By Hermès
Located in Dix hills, NY
Made In: France Measurements: Length: 16.5" Width: 4" Height: 11.5" Handle Drop: 4.5" OVERALL FAIR+ CONDITION ( 6.5/10 or BC ) Accessories: Signs of Wear: Cotton Exterior: Some...
Exceptional Hermès Sweater Pullover La Danse Cashmere and Silk Size S/M
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Sweater Pattern: "La Danse" (ballerinas) Grail Pattern ! Made in France Vintage item Front is made of 100% Silk Back an...
Hermès Black Box Rio Clutch Hand Painted
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès vintage black box calf rio clutch, hand painted by an American artist. The inspiration for this art deco design is the Chrysler building . Comes with original dust cover.
Hermes Mini Evelyne Vert Vertigo Silver
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes vert vertigo Evelyne TPM in clemence leather with canvas strap. Smallest model of Evelyne has tonal stitching, a large perforated H icon in circle at front, pull tab top closu...
Hermès NIB "Jour de Casting" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Jour de Casting" scarf, silk with hand-rolled edges (100% silk). The 70 scarf is modern and effortless, with its versatile, creative, and playful ways of wearing. Designed by...
Hermès Twilly Dans Un Jardin Anglais Small Silk Scarf Alice Shirley
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf « Twilly » Version Print: “Dans un Jardin Anglais" Designed by Alice Shirley Among the most sought-after scarves Made in France Made of 100% Silk ...
$1,653
Hermes book case
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - Burgundy-red calfskin book case. Pocket with a flap and pocket with a pleat, inside. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Length: 27 cm - Height: 14.5 cm - Depth: 4 ...
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...
Hermès Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Coffea Coffee Café Print in Porcelain
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Stop and take time to look at all the photos of this absolutely lovely authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: coffee leaves, flowers and beans Drawings are gorgeous, and varnish gives it ...
Hermes Kelly Bag 32 Box calf leather shoulder hand bag
By Hermès
Located in 10707, DE
Hermes Kelly Bag 32 in black leather with gold hardware. The bag was made in 1993. It is in excellent condition except for the corners, which can be repaired by a handbag stylist upo...
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 Navy Silk Ascot Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès navy silk scarf ascot featuring an all-over geometric print, a green border and a center pleat. Circa 1990s 100%silk In good vintage condition. Made in France. 44.5 in. (113c...
Hermes Overdyed Courbettes et Cabrioles by F. Faconnet Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès overdyed silk scarf “Courbettes et Cabrioles" by Françoise Faconnet silk scarf featuring an overdyed by Hermes, a Hermès signature. Overdyed Circa 2010s In good vintage con...
Hermès trousse Bride à Brac Large
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new large trousse Bride à Brac in fuchsia orange and burgundy canvas. Very sought after !!!! Unused condition.
Hermes Vintage 80's Silk Cosmos Print Silk Jacket
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Collectors Item - Hermes Vintage 80's Silk Cosmos Print Silk Jacket Blue jacket featuring the iconic 'Cosmos' motif in gold designed by Philippe Ledoux, originally introduced on He...
Hermès Silk Scarf “Fleurs Et Papillons De Tissus” 2013
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Silk Scarf “Fleurs Et Papillons De Tissus” 2013. The "Fleurs et Papillons de Tissus" design, created by Christine Henry in 2013, draws inspiration from the collections of the ...
Hermès Vintage Rouge H Bleu Marine Courchevel Birkin 35 GHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Vintage Rouge H Bleu Marine Courchevel Birkin 35 GHW SKU: Z153923 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: The elusive Birkin bag from Hermès was designed a...
Hermes Men's Chypre Olive Toile Black Leather Trim Sandal 45
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Men's Chypre Sandal featured in Olive Toile with Black leather Trim. Anatomical insole and H embossed Black rubber sole. Strap across foot is adjustable w...
New in Box Hermes Imperial Tiger Brown Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes limited edition "Imperial Tiger" small silk scarf in brown , silk and fuchsia trim. Brand new in original box.
HERMÉS KELLY BAG, 2 way, 35 cm, Epson leather, H in squer, Kollektion 2004
By Hermès
Located in Stuttgart, DE
HERMÉS KELLY BAG, 2 way, 35 cm, Epson leather in brown and ornage, inside the bag, H in squer, collektion 2004, Customized design, verry good condition, Made in France Dimensions: ...
Hermes Opli 24 shoulder bag Leather Red Stmap C 2018
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: Normal signs of use. Wear on the four corners and the closure area. The interior is clean. Access...
Hermès Vert Moyen Lizard Leather Vintage Kelly 20cm Sellier
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Vert Moyen Lizard Leather Vintage Kelly 20cm Sellier Product Details Xupes Ref: JJLG138 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 20cm Type: Top Handle, Shoulder Serial Number: [C] Age: 199...
Hermes 2026 Mini Jypsiere Cuir Veau Swift Leather Shoulder Bag In Rose Sakura
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Brand New - Full Set - Hermes 2026 Mini Jypsiere Cuir Veau Swift Leather Shoulder Bag - Full Set - Brand New Crossbody/shoulder bag crafted from high-quality Cuir Veau Swift leathe...
Hermes Men's Decoupage d'H Swim Trunks Vert-de-Gris L
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Hermes long swim trunks featured in Decoupage de H print. Colorway is Vert-de-Gris. Trunks have an elastic waistband with drawsting for adjustment. 2 side pockets and 1 rear pocket w...
HERMES JYPSIERE 31 Stamp Q Crayfish Powder Shoulder Bag 2013
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: HERMES JYPSIERE 31 Stamp Q Crayfish powder shoulder bag handbag France，There are minor signs of wear and scratches on the interior hardwa...
Hermès Médor Belt in Vert d’Eau Matte Alligator with Palladium Hardware - '10s
By Hermès
Located in Milano, Lombardia
An iconic expression of Hermès craftsmanship, this Médor belt is crafted in exquisite Vert d’Eau matte alligator leather, a refined and rare shade that highlights the Maison’s master...
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...
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.