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.
1964 Hermes Green La Tenue de Venerie by Charles-Jean Hallo Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf green “La Tenue de Venerie” by Charles-Jean Hallo featuring an Hunting Outfit scene and a top logo signature. Circa 1964 In good vintage condition. Made in France....
Hermès Black Epsom Sellier Kelly 28 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Black Epsom Sellier Kelly 28 PHW SKU: Z154249 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Officially renamed in 1977, the Hermès Kelly was originally called th...
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 BNIB Mini Evelyne Capucine Gold
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès mini Evelyne shoulder and cross-body bag with signature perforated "H." Capucine taurillon clemence leather , gold strap and palladium hardware. Sh...
HERMES Gris Fonce grey Box leather TOUAREG COLLIER DE CHIEN 24mm Belt 75
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Collier de Chien 24mm belt in Gris Fonce (dark grey) Box leather. Features a hand carved solid sterling silver buckle by Nigerian artist of the Touarg tribe. Ha...
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...
1990's Hermes Vintage Quilted Reversible Scarf Print Jacket
By Hermès
Located in Concord, NC
1990's rare Hermes vintage 'Etendards et Bannieres' scarf printed quilted reversible jacket. The reverse side is a dark green wool and cashmere. Novelty buttons. Size: 42 Condition...
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...
HERMES neon green smooth leather silver hardware bifold cardholder
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES neon green smooth leather silver hardware bifold cardholder Reference: AAWC/A00988 Brand: Hermes Material: Leather Color: Green Pattern: Solid Lining: Green Leather Made in: F...
Hermès by Martin Margiela Vintage Women's Cotton Sleeveless Top
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
A sleeveless cotton top by Hermès from the Martin Margiela era. Made in France from crisp cotton, it reflects the understated elegance and relaxed sophistication that defined Margiel...
Kelly Pocket Bag Strap Swift Epsom Terre Battue Capucine Red Orange Leather
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Orange Red Exterior - Hook closure - Comes with box Condition: The strap is in overall great condition there are minor scratches on the clasps, No Plastic on hardware, box inc...
Hermes Canvas & Leather Herbag 31cm
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Hermes Canvas & Leather Herbag 31cm Rose extreme coloured canvas with brown cowhide leather and palladium hardware. Year 2021. Size - Height 26cm, Width 31cm, Depth 11cm Conditio...
HERMES natural bridle leather outdoor picnic plaid blanket carry strap
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES natural bridle leather outdoor picnic plaid blanket carry strap Reference: KYCG/A00276 Brand: Hermes Material: Leather Color: Brown, Silver Pattern: Solid Closure: Belt Lining...
Hermès Green Epsom Leather Pochette Belt Bag - '90s
By Hermès
Located in Milano, Lombardia
A rare Hermès vintage accessory, the Floride belt bag embodies the Maison’s refined approach to leather craftsmanship and understated elegance. Crafted in vibrant green Epsom calfski...
Hermès Fauve Barenia Toile Birkin 30cm Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Corona Del Mar, CA
**Hermès Fauve Barenia Toile Birkin 30cm Palladium Hardware** 100% Authentic A beautifully rustic take on Hermès' most coveted silhouette, this Birkin 30 pairs a beige-and-ecru Toi...
Hermès Citrouilles Et Coloquintes Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Silk chiffon Scarf is ion 100% silk and features hand-rolled edges with the Citrouilles Et Coloquintes Mousseline Motif in blue.
Rare Hermès Autumn Leaves Tie
By Hermès
Located in Gazzaniga (BG), IT
From a private collection Rare, chic and funny Hermès tie Autumn leaves theme 100% Silk Made in France Multicolored print on cream base Great conditions Fast shipping from Italy incl...
Hermes Brandebourgs Encadre Long Twillaine Cardigan 34
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a limited edition Hermes long twillaine Brandebourgs Encadre belted cardigan. Depicts the iconic scarf print in silk in Black and White. This staple Hermes print wa...
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...
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...
Hermès Long Gloves Pale Pink Leather Size 6
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
PLEASE NOTICE: Gloves are Pale Pink, not white as the photos show Elegant Authentic Hermès Gloves Made in France Made of soft, smooth and supple leather Trimmed with black leather edges cut into spikes Colorway: Pale Pink "HERMES" and "MADE IN FRANCE" stamps inside From the "PRINTEMPS" PARIS shop...
Hermès Gold Togo Birkin 25 GHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Gold Togo Birkin 25 GHW SKU: Z158804 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Founded in Paris in 1837 as a harness workshop, Hermès has grown into one of t...
Hermes Silk Scarf, Jungle Love
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Hermes Silk Scarf, Jungle Love, designed by Robert Dallet, with box and ribbon. 35 by 35 in. Condition Report Good condition.
Hermès Kelly Jump Beige Marfa Swift Leather Palladium Hardware W/2024
By Hermès
Located in Forest Park, GA
Hermès Kelly Jump Beige Marfa Swift Leather Palladium Hardware W/2024 The Hermès Kelly Jump in Beige Marfa presents a refined dialogue between modern design and timeless elegance. ...
Hermès Pony Express Silk Twill Scarf, Kermit Oliver
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Pony Express silk twill scarf designed by Kermit Oliver. Excellent pre-worn condition. Hand rolled edges. No care tag. Dry Clean only.
Hermès bag 'The case of the bag'
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - Matte rubber “Le Cas du Sac” bag with multicolored printed silk strips and a double handle. A 2004 Collection, designed for the LE CAS DU SAC exhibition at the musée de la m...
HERMES medium blue cashmere TOP STITCHING Cardigan Sweater 34 XXS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès cardigan in medium blue cashmere (100%) is elevated with white jacquard trim, crafted to resemble refined top-stitching. Featuring a classic fit with a sli...
Hermes Landscape Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Serviette / Drap / Tapis de plage Hermès "Paysage" dessinée par Jan Bajtlik, inspirée des peintures de Vincent van Gogh 100% Coton. Dimensions : H: 90 x L: 150 cm. Parfait état
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.
Hermès Hunter Herbag Zip 31 PM Rose Azalee
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This is an authentic HERMES Toile Militaire Vache Hunter Herbag Zip Retourne PM 31 in rose azalee and vache naturel. This stylish tote is crafted of sturdy toile canvas. It features ...
Hermès Birkin 25cm Gris Neve Togo Leather w/Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Hermès Birkin 25cm in Gris Neve Togo leather presents a refined interpretation of one of the house’s most recognizable silhouettes, rendered in a compact proportion that emphasiz...
Hermès Porcelain Horse Ashtray White Gold
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès porcelain ashtray with horse design. Made in France. Comes with original box.
Hermès Multicolor Silk Chiffon Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès silk chiffon multicolor flower shawl with light blue trim. Excellent condition, hand rolled edges. No box.
HERMES 100% cashmere black hooded rectangular poncho cardigan coat TU
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES 100% cashmere black hooded rectangular poncho cardigan coat TU Reference: KYCG/A00191 Brand: Hermes Material: Cashmere Color: Black Pattern: Solid Closure: Button Extra Detail...
Hermès "Pony Express" Blue Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès collectible "Pony Express" 100% silk scarf designed by Kermit Oliver with blue border and hand-rolled edges. No tag. minor discoloration in the corners.Collectible color ...
Hermès Orange Swift Jige Duo Clutch
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Orange Swift Jige Duo Mini Clutch SKU: 155581 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Founded in Paris in 1837 as a harness workshop, Hermès has grown into...
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 Kelly 35 Rouge Casaque Swift
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes kelly 35cm retourne rouge casaque swift leather and palladium hardware in excellent condition. Handle drop 3.5", shoulder drop 17.25". Date Stamp ...
Hermès White Clemence Leather Kelly 35cm Retourne
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès White Clemence Leather Kelly 35cm Retourne Product Details Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 35 Product Title: White Clemence Leather Kelly 35cm Retourne Type: Top Handle, Shoulder ...
Hermès NIB Gavroche twill Baobab Blue
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new "baobab" silk gavroche in blue. Comes with original box.
auth HERMES blue & turquoise cashmere LUREX STRIPE Shawl Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
Hermes shalw in turquoise and dark blue cashmere (100%) with metallic silver lurex strip down the middle. Has been worn and is in excellent condition. Width 155cm (60.5in) Length 20...
Hermès Small Jige Etoupe Goat Skin Bag
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès excellent condition etoupe small jige goat skin with contrast stitching. Date stamp J for 2006. Comes with original dust cover.
Hermes Horses Unfinished Crepe Silk Scarf crepe
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès unfinished "horses" on a crepe silk scarf featuring a yellow border, a Hermès signature. Please note it is an unfinished silk test on a crepe silk large square, no edges or r...
Hermès scarf ‘A la Gloire de la Légion étrangère’ by Hugo Grygkar Circa 1951
By Hermès
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1951 France Rare Hermès silk square only for the collection entitled ‘A la Gloire de la Légion étrangère’ by Hugo Grygkar and dating from the unique 1951 edition. Printed silk ...
New Hermes White Tiger Cubs Small Scarf in Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes collectible silk tiger cubs gavroche small scarf in black, white and red. Hand rolled edges. New in box.
Hermes Oran Rose Petale Sandal Flat Calfskin Shoes 40
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers Hermes Oran sandals featured in exquisite Rose Petale. The most pale blush of dusty pink in calfskin. A perfect neutral for your spring and summer wardrobe Matching...
Hermès Bleu Indigo, Black, Cuivre Togo & Box Calf Au Galop Leather Kelly 28cm
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
"Hermès Bleu Indigo, Black, Cuivre Togo & Box Calf Au Galop Leather Kelly 28cm Retourne Product Details Xupes Ref: CB1067 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 28cm Type: Top Handle, Shoulder ...
Hermès Alezan & Parchemine Epsom Leather Verso Globe-Trotter Agenda Cover PM
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
"Hermès Alezan & Parchemine Epsom Leather Verso Globe-Trotter Agenda Cover PM Product Details Xupes Ref: CAA0118 Brand: Hermès Model: Globe-Trotter Agenda Cover PM Type: Travel Seri...
HERMES VINTAGE Martin Margiela brown twill jersey one piece bodysuit FR40 L
By Hermès, Maison Martin Margiela
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES VINTAGE Martin Margiela brown twill jersey one piece bodysuit FR40 L Reference: CNLE/A00362 Brand: Hermes Designer: Martin Margiela Material: Polyamide, Blend Color: Brown Pat...
Hermes Light Green Silk Ascot Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès Light green silk scarf ascot featuring a geometrics horse print, a ligth green border and a center pleat. Circa 1980s 100%silk In good vintage condition. Made in France. 45....
Hermès Fer a Cheval Key Ring
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Fer a Cheval Key Ring is in palladium silver and features a horseshoe shape with a subtle “H” signature. Brand new with original dust cover and box.
ERMES ivory 100% double face cashmere open cap sleeve belted robe coat FR36 S
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
ERMES ivory 100% double face cashmere open cap sleeve belted robe coat FR36 S Reference: KYCG/A00239 Brand: Hermes Material: Cashmere Color: Cream Pattern: Solid Closure: Self Tie Li...
HERMÈS - 1990s Vintage Women's Silk Blazer by Oliver Kermit
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - We present an extraordinary item a pure silk blazer with the iconic Carrè pattern " Les Ameriques" signed by master Oliver Kermit. A tru...
Hermès Scarf "Christophe Colomb D'écouvre L'Amérique" 1992
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Hermès scarf "Christophe Colomb Découvre l'Amérique", designed by Carl de Parcevaux and first issued in 1992, is a tribute to the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arri...
Hermès New "Pani la Shar Pawnee" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Omani La Shar Pawnee silk twill scarf originally issued in 1984. Designed by Kermit Oliver, the most famous painter of Texas natives images. Hand rolled edges. Comes with orig...
Hermes Rare Gold Men Toiletry Case
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes 1990’s rare and collectible men toiletry case. Gold box calf leather and palladium hardware. Excellent condition with all interior parts in place. Comes with original cover t...
Cathy Latham, Tahiti Hermes Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
HERMES Scarf Silk Scarf 100% Paris, Made In France Beautiful Caty Latham's Tahiti is a lovely Hermes silk scarf here in a pretty colorway and from either the original or early iss...
Hermès Les Ameriques Scarf by Oliver
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès collectible Les Ameriques silk scarf by Kermit Oliver. Oliver's prints are highly collectible. Silk twill with hand-rolled edges (they have been i...
Hermès Brand New Rodeo Grigri PM Charm Tricolor
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès grigri rodeo bag charm. Size: PM (small). Brand new. Combination of gold, rose texas, and blue Zanzibar leather. Comes with box, ribbon, and gift bag. Marked: Hermés Paris Ma...
Hermès Koala Terry Cotton Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Koala Terry Cotton Beach Towel is in 100% terry cotton, in serviette de Plage Koala. Perfect accessory for your next swim, on your boat, in your home.
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.