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 Smiles in Third Millenary by I A K Sefedin Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Rare Hermes "Smiles in third Millenary" by Ibrahim Alamia Kwumi Sefedin silk scarf featuring a pink border and a Hermès signature. Designed in 2000. In good vintage condition. Made ...
HERMES blue cashmere silk IMPOOSSIIIBLE 100 Scarf Orange Ciel Vert
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès shawl 'Impoossiiible 100' by Anne Kepler and Veronika Wildgruber in orange cashmere (70%) and silk (30%) with details in light and dark blue, green, yellow and ivory. Has been worn and is in virtually new condition. Measurements Width 100cm (39in) Height 100cm (39in) The story behind: The design of the trinket tray created by Anne Kepler and Veronika Wildgruber reveals mystifying perspectives. Letters and shapes appear distorted, impossible to decipher. Equestrian accessories...
$4,476
Hermès bag 'Piano'
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - (Made in France) 'Piano' bag made of golden Courchevel leather and marled H canvas, with a gold-plated fastener on a flap, and a shoulder strap. A design circa 1950-1960. C...
Hermes Scarf Ors Bleus d'Afrique Green / Chartreuse / Brown Silk 90 New w/Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Ors Bleus d'Afrique silk scarf by Zoe Pauwels. Green, Chartreuse and Brown colorway. Depicts the rich African geometric designs and animals native to the ...
HERMES pink wool 2022 BELTED TWILL Coat Jacket w EYELET CLOSURE 34 XS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès peacoat in pink wool twill (with 1% polyamide). Features a eyelet and belt strap closure at the neck and ties with a belt. Unlined...
Hermès Limited Edition Birkin 30cm Framboise Matte Alligator Touch &Togo Leather
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Limited edition “Touch” variation from Hermès featuring a combination of materials within the classic Birkin 30 structure. Crafted in Framboise Togo leather with matte alligator acce...
Hermes scarf / pareo 'Pineapple'
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - (Made in France) Blue cotton foulard with a pineapple pattern in green, yellow, and orange tones. To be mentioned, a thread is pulled out and there is a tiny stain. Conditi...
Hermès NIB Orange Horse Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès beach towel with geometric horse and figure design. Orange, taupe and black color combination. 100% cotton. Comes with original box.
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 "Clic Clac" Navy Silk Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Clic Clac" in red and blue, 100% silk shawl with hand rolled edges. Excellent condition.
Hermès Silk Scarf "Floralies" 1959
By Hugo Grygkar, Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Silk Scarf "Floralies" 1959. Please note this item is in good condition with minor wear consistent with age and use. This beautiful scarf was designed by Hugo Grygkar in 1959,...
Hermès NIB Grey Pearl Mini Evelyne Bag
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Mini Evelyne Bag in grey pearl leather features perforated logo detail, an adjustable shoulder strap, snap fastening, main compartment. Palladium hardware. Comes with boo...
Hermès Les Artisans D Hermes Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new Les Artisans D Hermès silk scarf, multicolor pastel. Hand rolled edges. Comes with original box.
Hermes Silk Pony Express Navy Blue Celeste Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès collectible navy blue Pony Express by Kermit Oliver silk scarf. Hand-rolled edges. Highly collectible subject . Please refer to last two photos for small defects. One faded sp...
Hermès Cashmere 35 Inch Square Le Bien Aller Scarf Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès 35" square cashmere-and-silk blend Le Bien Aller scarf. Hand-rolled edges. Minor wear.
Unworn Hermès Scarf "Les Chevaux Se Rendent Au Départ", With Box
By Hermès
Located in valatie, NY
Unworn New Hermès Scarf "Les Chevaux Se Rendent Au Départ," ("The Horses Are Heading To The Starting Point") With Original Box. Rare Single Issue c2001. This is a highly collectible ...
Hermes Leather skirt
By Hermès
Located in Alford, MA
Sarong-style skirt by Hermes in softest camel lambskin with asymmetrical waist and hem. Zipper on the high, left side slants to tiered tie motif on the right hip with opposed diagona...
Hermès Scarf "Mon Petit Cheval Mexicain" 2009
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Scarf "Mon Petit Cheval Mexicain" 2009. Beautiful scarf designed by Wlodek Kaminski in 2009, with only one edition this item is a really sought after piece among collector and...
Hermes Twilly Cliquetis Vert de Gris and Anthracite Set of 2
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Cliquetis Twilly set of two. Featured in Vert de Gris and Anthracite colorway. Designed by Julie Abadie. First spotted at the men's spring-summer 2024 run...
New in Box Hermes Red Guepards Maxi Twilly Thin Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
New in Box Hermes red guepards thin maxi twilly. 100% silk, comes with original orange box and instructions booklet.
HERMES taupe suede NEO Ankle Boots Shoes 36.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Neo ankle boots in tan suede are a refined fusion of equestrian inspiration and timeless elegance. Designed with wrap-around ankle straps adorned with the...
Hermes Rust Ship Beach Sarong
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Drop de Plage Cruise Ship beach sarong. Go in style on your next swim, boat trip or use as an essential staple in your guest house. Please note, spots, please refer to photos ...
Hermes 1980 Top Pull Twillaine FR38 Les clés Twillaine Silk wool Sweater US8
By Hermès, Cathy Latham
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès turtleneck sweater from the Twillaine series in ecru wool, front in silk twill with Les clefs motif by Cathy Latham (published in 1965 then 1980 - like this sweater and finall...
Hermès "Les Danses Des Indiens" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès "Les Danses Des Indiens" Hermes scarf features the ritual dances of various Indian tribes. The scarf was designed by American artist Kermit Oliver in 1999. Brand new cond...
HERMES Beige Dore leather DEDALE BLOCK HEEL Ankle Boots Shoes 37.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Dedale ankle boots in Beige Dore (camel brown) calfskin leather. Feature a block heel, painted edges and contrast stitching. Open with a zipper on the inside. L...
Hermes Viintage Jacket Iridescent Quilted Parka Lush Fox Hoodie Trim 6
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a fabulous vintage Hermes iridescence quilted drawstring parka style jacket with a lush fox trimmed hoodie. A bronzed olive tone to the brown. Quilted with stylized...
Hermés Paris white and light blue twin set silk and cotton size S
By Hermès
Located in Capri, IT
Hermés Paris white and light blue twin set silk and cotton size S white long sleeve t-shirt with a light blue and white stripes sweater
HERMES Vintage Silver Nautical Place-Card or Menu Holders Set
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES vintage set of 12 silver nautical place-car or menu holders featuring a ship's wheel. A rare and refined set for sailing enthusiasts or yacht owners. Embossed HERMES. French...
Hermès "Les Mythologies des Homme" Scarf by Kermit Oliver
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès "Les Mythologies des Hommes" Scarf is from 100% silk in brown and neutrals and features hand-rolled edges. Care tag attached. Mint condition.
Hermès Togo Dogon Card Case Key Holder Anemone
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
- Stamp R Square, Year 2014 - Aubergine purple - Internal zip-fastening pocket - Internal card slots - Condition: Very Good This pre-owned item is in very good condition, with minima...
Hermès Avalon throw pillow in orange (Potiron) and ecru (beige) wool cashmere
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
An emblem of Hermès’ equestrian heritage translated into interiors, the Avalon throw pillow brings the house’s iconic graphic language into a refined, tactile form. Woven in a luxuri...
HERMES Neve grey Clemence leather MINI EVELYNE 16 TPM Bag Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Evelyne 16 TPM Crossbody Bag in Gris Neve (light grey) Taurillon Clemence leather is a timeless addition to any collection. Featuring the iconic perforated...
Vintage Hermès “Sac de Mangeoire” Bag Bucket Tote Black Box Calf Leather 1960s
By Hermès
Located in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Preowned and wonderfully rare, this vintage Hermès Sac de Mangeoire dates to the 1960s and showcases the house’s deep equestrian heritage. Crafted in black Box calf leather, its scul...
Hermès Brand New Kelly 32 Capucine Togo / Gold HDW
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Kelly retourne 32cm in capucine togo leather and gold tone hardware. Handle drop, 3.5"L. Strap, 35"L. Letter Z for 2021. Brand new in box. Comes with strap, clochette, tirett...
Hermes Logo orange one piece swimsuit! Baywatch cut 90s vibe!
By Hermès
Located in KRAKÓW, PL
Hermes Logo orange one piece swimsuit! Baywatch cut 90s vibe Do not miss out on the Hermes Logo Orange One Piece Swimsuit, a timeless and chic swimwear piece that combines classic s...
HERMES Hugo Grygkar Brides de Gala brown white print silk scarf 90cm
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Hugo Grygkar Brides de Gala brown white print silk scarf 90cm Reference: AEMA/A00075 Brand: Hermes Model: Hugo Grygkar Brides de Gala Material: Silk...
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 Rouge H Box Calf Leather Vibrato Kelly 28cm Retourne
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Rouge H Box Calf Leather Vibrato Kelly 28cm Retourne Product Details Xupes Ref: JJLG043 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 28cm Type: Top Handle, Sh...
Hermes Tattoo Collier De Chien 24 Bracelet T3 Blanc/Soleil/Bleu NEW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Tattoo Collier De Chien 24 Bracelet T3 Blanc/Soleil/Bleu NEW with box
Hermès Della Cavalleria Favolosa 140 Silk Scarf in Yellow & Grey
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Della Cavalleria Favolosa 140 Virginie Jamin Split Pegasus double face silk twill scarf Reference: TGAS/F00961 Brand: Hermes Model: Della Cavalleria Favolosa 140 Material: Sil...
$1,856Sale Price|25% Off
Auth. Hermes Shawl CS140 Jungle Love CS140 Red Navy NWCTS Super Collector NEW
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Jungle Love - CS140 - Red Navy - NWCTS - 1604041214 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Shawl 140 Cashmere Silk Name Design: Jungle Love, Jungle Love Artist: Robert Dallet Size: 140 cm x 140 ...
Hermes Birkin 35 Jaune Epsom Candy Collection Bag
By Hermès
Located in Athens, GA
Hermes Birkin 35 Epsom Jaune D’Or Feu with palladium hardware. Extremely rare part of the limited candy collection. Plastic still on hardware excellent condition. Guaranteed authenti...
Hermes Evelyne TPM Bag Black Clemence Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Evelyne TPM bag featured in Black. Clemence leather is soft and scratch resistant. Signature perforated H on front of ...
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...
Hermès Kelly Padded 25 Bleu Saphire Swift Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Berlin, DE
Hermès Kelly Padded 25 in bleu saphire and swift leather with palladium hardware. The bag is unworn and comes as full set including the original re...
HERMES cashmere silk H JUMPING Stole Shawl Scarf Orange Naturel Caramel
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès H Jumping shawl in natural cashmere (70%) and silk (30%) with orange and caramel brown H print. Finished with hand-rolled and fringed edges. Brand new. Measure...
Hermès Foulard Carre 90 Astres et Soleil 1994 Silk Twill Scarf Blue Faivre Herme
By Cathy Latham, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès square scarf 90 in silk twill, Tibet II pattern by Cathy Latham, produced once in 2002, in shades of orange. Width 90 cm x length 90 cm approximately. The square has been worn...
Hermes Ombre Lizard Oran Sandal 39
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a pair of Hermes Oran Ombre Lizard slides. The iconic top stitched H cutout over the top of the foot in coveted Ombre lizard skin. Etoupe embossed calfskin insole. ...
Hermes, blue wool trench coat
By Hermès
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Hermes, blue wool trench coat. The item is in very good condition. Comes with dustbag.
Hermes "Soies Volantes" Cashmere & Silk Jacquard Crew-Neck Pullover
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes wonderfully elegant "Soies Volantes" crew-neck pullover is detailed with whimsical characters in silk jacquard on the front. The rest of ...
HERMES red cashmere Button-Front Cardigan Sweater 34 XXS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès cardigan in red cashmere (100%). Features a V-neck and rib-knit trim. Closes with logo buttons on the front. Unlined. Has been worn and is in excellent conditio...
Hermès NIB Nano Gavroche Ex Libris
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new Ex Libris silk nano gavroche , orange and white. Comes with original box.
Hermes Cherche Midi Bag Medium Leather Salmon Red Pink Clutch Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: HERMES Cherche midi Medium clutch bag leather Salmon Red shoulder bag france，Normal usage marks. Accessories: Dust bag. size: Width:25...
$2,320Sale Price|20% Off
Hermès Taurillon Clemence Good News 28 PM Blue Jeans Hobo Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Hermes Taurillon Clemence Good News 28 PM Blue Jeans Hobo Crossbody Bag These are professional photos of the actual bag. The Hermès Good News 28 Medium Crossbody Bag offers a ...
HERMES Birkin 35 Vibrato In Orange/Fuchsia With Havanne In Box Calfskin Gold HW
By Hermès
Located in Forest Park, GA
HERMES Birkin 35 Vibrato In Orange/Fuchsia With Havanne In Box Calfskin Gold HW The Hermès Birkin 35 Vibrato in Orange and Fuchsia with Havanne trim presents a bold and sophisticate...
Hermes Kelly 28cm Bleu Cobalt Epsom Leather w/Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Sharp in structure and striking in tone, this Hermès Kelly 28cm in Bleu Cobalt presents a more graphic, high-contrast interpretation of the house’s iconic silhouette. The Sellier con...
Hermès Cotton "Brazil Pareo" Blue
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Cotton "Brazil Pareo" Blue. Beautiful pareo perfect for a spring or summer day, the colors are bright, bold and vibrant. Please note this item is in good condition with minor...
Hermes NIB Videpoches Bag Gold Togo
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Crafted with Hermes' esteemed attention to quality and style, the Hermes Videpoches bag is a luxurious addition to any wardrobe. This compact crossbody is designed in a radiant gold ...
Hermès Cuillers d'Afrique Scarf, Latham
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Cuillers d'Afrique light blue silk scarf by Latham. Dry clean only. Does not include box.
Hermes Kelly Twilly Bag Charm Fauve w/ Palladium Tadelakt Leather
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a limited edition Hermes Kelly Twilly Bag Charm featured in Fauve with signature bone topstitch. Shaped like a Kelly Bag crafted ...
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.