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 Black Epsom Leather Clic 16
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Black Epsom Leather Clic 16 Product Details Xupes Ref: HB5652 Brand: Hermès Model: Clic 16 Type: Shoulder, Crossbody Serial Number: Y Age: 2020 Accompa...
Hermes Etriviere Dog Collar Large Model New
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Guaranteed authentic Hermes Etriviere dog collar featured in Natural Sable natural bridle leather. Buckle is stirrup shape. D ring for a leash. 2cm ...
Hermes Scarf Super Silk Quest Argent Coral Multicolore 90
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Super Silk Quest silk twill scarf. Featured in Argent, Corail and Multicolore colorway. Depicts nights on horseback...
$399Sale Price|20% Off
1990's Hermes Coach & Saddle Red Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes collectible design by Ledoux "coach & saddle" in two tone red combination. Hand rolled edges.
Hermes Mangeoire Blue Jean Taurillon Clemence Leather Rope Handle Bucket Bag
By Hermès
Located in Philadelphia, PA
FABULOUS Hermes Blue Jean Taurillon Clemence Leather Mangeoire Rope handle bucket bag in excellent condition. Blue jean clemence leather exterior trimmed with silver hardware and laser cut holes throughout. Top twisted natural beige rope handle. Unlined interior sides, leather interior base. No stains, smells, or scuffs. Clean corners, edges and interior. Perfect for a variety of occasions and a must-have for Hermes lovers...
Hermès Brown Les Clefs Silky Pop Bag
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès brown leather les clefs silk foldable bag. Excellent condition. Bag closed, 5" x 5" x 1". Handle drop 10"L. Comes with original dust cover and box.
New in Box Hermes Rodeo PM Rose Azalee Bag Charm
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes rare and collectible grigri rodeo bag charm PM (small). Combination of rose azalea, black and electric blue. Brand new in box with ribbon and gift bag.
Hermes Vintage Jacket Exquisite Silk Moire Puffer Dramatic 36 / 6
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a vintage Hermes dramatic reversible silk moire wadded jacket. Striking balloon hem in muted burnt pumpkin. This is a changeable mo...
$16,800
Blue Hermes Constance
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Blue Hermès Constance Bag is one of the most coveted pieces in the Hermès lineup — a structured, elegant shoulder bag defined by its sleek silhouette and iconic “H” clasp. Adjust...
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 - Vintage Silk Scarf Luna Park by Joachim Metz 1990s 90x88 cm
By Hermès, Joachim Metz
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Bellissimo Carrè in seta con motivo natalizio intitolato " Luna Park " il disegno è di uno dei più importanti autori che hanno collabora...
RHERMES Circus Round Box pink yellow white star balls porcelain container
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
RHERMES Circus Round Box pink yellow white star balls porcelain container Reference: KYCG/A00151 Brand: Hermes Model: Circus Round Box Material: Porcelain Color: Pink, Yellow Pattern...
Hermès "Les Clés" dress by Claude Brouet circa 1985
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - Collection prêt-à-porter circa 1985 sous la direction artistique de Claude Brouet. Robe longue à motif intitulée "Les Clés" dessiné par Cathy Lamy en 1965, en viscose noire ...
Hermès NIB Medium Pegase Bag Charm
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes new grigri rodeo Pegase bag charm. Cui, nata and orange. Date stamp U for 2022. Comes with original box.
Hermes Saint-Louis Chess Game Jeu Flannel-Grey with Clear Crystal and Wood
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes limited edition Saint-Louis Chess Game featured in Jeu Flannel-Grey with Clear Crystal and Wood. Each chess piece is beautifully inspired by Saint-Louis' classic decanter stoppers. The chess game...
Hermes Alleretour Messenger 34 Men's Bag H Canvas / Sombrero Leather New
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a guaranteed authentic men's Hermes Alleretour Messenger 34 Bag featured in Charcoal H canvas. Detailed in calfskin leather brown Sombrero leather. Adjustable sport...
Hermes Oran Rose Petale Sandal Flat Calfskin Shoes 38
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...
Hermes Constance Slim Wallet Waist Belt Bag Biscuit Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Constance Slim Wallet Belt bag featured in warm Biscuit. This Hermes wallet is stunning with coveted Gold hardware in epsom leather. Includes removable zi...
HERMES Bearn brown pink leather H logo strap bifold square wallet
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Bearn brown pink leather H logo strap bifold square wallet Reference: AAWC/A00989 Brand: Hermes Model: Bearn Material: Leather Color: Pink, Brown Pattern: Solid Closure: Loop ...
Hermes Miles Sneaker Technical Canvas / Goatskin / Calfskin 37 /7
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a pair of Hermes Miles Sneakers featured in Black and White. Accentuated with Brown rear detail. Technical canvas with goatskin suede toe and rear White calfskin. Almond toe and lightweight for great comfort. Comes with sleeper and signature Hermes orange box...
Hermes Evelyne III TPM Bag Framboise Clemence Leather
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Evelyne TPM featured in saturated Framboise. Clemence leather is soft and scratch resistant. Signature perforated H on front of bag. Fresh with Palladium ...
Hermes Annee De LA Fantasie Palladium Plated Heart & Key Padlock Charm 2004
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermes Annee De La Fantasie Palladium Plated Heart & Key Padlock Charm from 2004 is a captivating piece that embodies the elegance and craftsmanship synonymous with the Hermes brand. Crafted with palladium plating, this charm features a delicate heart shape paired with a tiny key and padlock, symbolizing love and exclusivity. Its intricate detailing and timeless design make it a versatile accessory that can elevate both casual and formal ensembles. This charm pairs beautifully with designer items such as Chanel leather handbags, Louis Vuitton monogram accessories, and Gucci silk scarves...
Hermès Blue “Kachinas“ Pointe Silk Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès collectible kachinas pointe red and blue silk shawl in blue and red combination. Brand new in unused condition. It is made from 100% Silk with hand-rolled edges. Comes with or...
Hermes Tray Jungle Love Emerald Limoges Porcelain New w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Jungle Love Limoges porcelain tray featured in Emerald. Hand painted porcelain with hand painted platinum trim. This beloved print is timeless and highly ...
Hermes Men's Jacket Chaine D'Ancre Blue Reversible Windbreaker 50 / 40 New
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes feather light chic reversible men's windbreaker. Blue windbreaker reverses to a black and blue Chaine d'Ancre print. Jacke...
Hermès Open Gloves Mittens Teddy Plush Shearling Leather Wool Purple Size 6.5
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Warm and Cozy Authentic Hermès Mittens "Teddy Plush" version Mittens that can be put on over your gloves Made in France Made of Shearling (leather a...
Hermès Scarf "Chapeau !" 1990
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Scarf "Chapeau !" 1990. The Hermès scarf Chapeau! is a vibrant and whimsical design by Annie Faivre, first introduced in 1990. The Chapeau! scarf is considered a collectible p...
Fleurs et Carlines by Vladimir Rybaltchenko Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf "Fleurs et Carlines" by Vladimir Rybaltchenko featuring a blue border. Circa 1985s. In good vintage condition. Made in France....
Hermes Porcelain Toucan Plate
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Why not get your fine china from the most luxurious fashion house of Hermes? The quality and love put into every piece will last you a lifetime and more. Grab this one of a kind plate for your next dinner party or give it as a gift to your favorite host to show gratitude. This is large enough to be a serving platter that will make a beautiful statement or would look fabulous set upon a display cabinet to add beautiful pops of color. This plate is featured in different shades of vibrant blues, greens, and yellows that pair together effortlessly. This whimsical plate depicts five toucans perched upon branches with green and yellow piping to the edges. Set upon your fine china cabinet...
Hermès Rare Kachinas Tribal Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès 100% silk twill Kachinas scarf by designer, Oliver. Excellent condition. Signature 35" square. Dry-clean only. Comes with original box.
Hermès Celeste Mythologie Silk Top
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Celeste Mythologie Silk Shirt features a tribal print down the front, the hem, arms and neckline are trimmed with croton. Collectible design by famous Texas artist Kermit...
Hermès Constellation Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain Gold Carriage
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare and Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Constallation Pattern: stars and shooting star, carriage and coachman (Hermès logo) and constellation drawn in dots Mad...
New Hermes Silk Mythologies Blue Brown Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Mythologies des Hommes silk scarf by Kermit Oliver. Collectible and rare. Hand-rolled edges. Comes with original box.
Hermès 1997 Souvenir De L'exposition Clear Kelly Translucent 241117
By Hermès
Located in Dix hills, NY
Hermès 1997 Souvenir De L'exposition Clear Kelly Translucent 241117 Measurements: Length: 15.5 " Width: 4.5 " Height: 11.5 " Handle drop: 2.5 " OVERALL FA...
HERMÈS - 1980s Vintage Equestrian Porcelain Ashtray Unisex Home Decor
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Beautiful porcelain ashtray with equestrian subject this is a very elegant object and the horse theme makes as we know always more preci...
HERMES c.1980's 2pc Navy & White Horse Bit Beach Towel Drawstring Bucket Bag Set
By Hermès, ERIC BERGERE
Located in Thiensville, WI
Rare Vintage Hermes c.1980's exclusively for Bonwit Teller; two piece navy blue and white horse bit motif beach towel and bucket bag set. White h...
Hermes "Jardin Secret" 90 cm Pink Garden Print Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermes "Jardin Secret" 90 cm Pink Garden Print Silk Scarf is a stunning piece that encapsulates the charm of a whimsical garden. Featuring a light pink base adorned with intricat...
Hermes Tri Maillon Gloves Beige Cashmere M
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers Hermes Tri Maillon Gloves featured in Beige. Exquisitely soft and warm Cashmere with chaine d'ancre motif. Please see the matching Tri Maillon beanie under separate...
HERMES black silk LES VOITURES A TRANSFORMATION 90 Twill Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Voitures a Transformation 90 twill scarf by Francoise de la Perriere in black and ecru with details in yellow, olive green and sage green silk (100%). Has been ...
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 Collier de Chien Bangle Bracelet white epson Leather Pink Gold Finish
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
HERMES Collier de Chien Bracelet white epson Leather Pink Gold Size Medium T3 M 16.5cm With Box In 1837, within the walls of his workshop at 56 rue Basse-du-Rempart, Thierry Hermè...
Hermes Nata Off-White Epsom Leather Kelly To Go Wallet Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Nata Epsom Leather Kelly To Go Wallet Crossbody Bag Made In: France Year of Production: 2022 Color: Nata beige Hardware: Goldtone Materials: ...
Hermès Silk Twill Foulard Entitled 'Air France', 1962
By Hermès, Philippe Ledoux
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Hermès - (Made in France) Silk twill foulard entitled 'Air France' because it was exclusively sold aboard of Air France airline planes. Limited edition designed by Philippe Ledoux in...
Hermès Brandebourgs Scarf by Caty Latham
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès silk twill rare Brandebourgs scarf designed by Caty Latham. No care tag. Small hole .
Hermès Scarf "Ferronnerie"
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Hermès "Ferronnerie" scarf is a timeless piece that showcases the brand's dedication to artistry and craftsmanship. Designed by Caty Latham and first introduced in 1970, this sca...
New in Box Hermes Guepards Fuchsia Thin Maxi Twilly Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
New in Box Hermes fuchsia guepards thin maxi twilly. 100% silk, comes with original orange box and instructions booklet.
HERMÈS - Vintage Crocodile Leather Cummerbund with Gold Rings
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Rare porosus crocodile scarf accessory ( marked N on square ) gold-plated metal rings sold with original box. This is a discontinued acc...
Hermes Vintage Art de la Table Wood Shelf Talker Square Plate
By Hermès
Located in Rome, Rome
Vintage Hermes Shelf talker/Plate with 'Hermes Art de la table - Paris' lettering. Square-shaped. Made in wood, with upper side in light gold colored metal. Measurements: 6.5 x 6.5 i...
HERMES Oz white calfskin leather silver Kelly turnlock mules EU37
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Oz white calfskin leather silver Kelly turnlock mules EU37 Reference: KYCG/A00116 Brand: Hermes Model: OZ Mule Material: Leather Color: White, Silver Pattern: Solid Closure: S...
Hermes Men's Hooded Sweater w/ Leather Detail Gris Hoodie Sweatshirt L
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Hooded Sweater featured in Grey with Black leather detail. Gris hoodie sweatshirt has a Black Cheval au Trait lambskin patch in front. Drawstring at neck....
Hermes BNIB Black Togo Gold hardware Backpocket
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes rare Birkin bag back pocket pouch in black togo leather with gold tone hardware. Brand new in box with booklet and original dust cover . Birkin ...
HERMES Vintage Silver Plate Equestrian Horse Bit Double Pot
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES vintage silver plate double pot featuring an equestrian horse bit design handle. Embossed HERMES PARIS Made in France. RAVINET D'ENFERT (RD) silvers...
Hermes ' l'arbre de soie' silk scarf
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
The Hermès scarf has long been proven to be popular and has been worn by the most famous and influential people. Designed by Antoine Jacquelot and first issued in 1995, this pre-owne...
Hermès NIB White Kachinas Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès rare Kachinas washed silk white scarf designed by artist Kermit Oliver. Signature print from this artist. beautiful silk twill with hand rolled edges. Comes in box. Dry clean ...
Hermes Mosaique Au 24 Dessert Plate Platinum Set of 2 New w/Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Mosaique Au 24 Platinum Dessert Plate Set of 2 in porcelain. The mosaic motif reflects the mosaic floor at t...
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...
$639Sale Price|20% Off
Hermès Porcelain Horse Heads Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès white and black porcelain ashtray with horse heads design. Mint condition.
Hermes 'H' Touareg 925 Sterling Silver Buckle Leather Belt
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
We Adore - Hermes 'H' Touareg 925 Sterling Silver Buckle Leather Belt Burgundy calfskin leather belt in Rouge H designed with a signature sterling silver 'H' buckle detailed with in...
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 Palladium Bag Padlock w/ Toggle and Two Keys
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Hermes Palladium Bag Padlock w/ Toggle and Two Keys Key number 286, the toggle white leather. Height 1.5 in. Condition Report Good condition.
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.