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.
Exceptional Hermès Golf Ball Letter Opener Paper Cutter Ravinet d'Enfert
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare Authentic Hermès Letter Opener Can be used as paper cutter One end is adorned with a golf ball, the other end is pointed Made of silvery metal Designed by Ravinet ...
Hermès Evelyne TPM Gold GHW
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
- Gold brown - Evelyne 16 - Gold-tone hardware - Signature perforated H logo - Press-stud fastening - Main compartment - Internal logo stamp - Comes with detachable canvas shoulder ...
HERMES black viscose OPEN BACK HALTER SLEEVELESS CREPE Jumpsuit 36 XS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès halter neck wide leg open back jumpsuit in black viscose (100%). Closes with a concealed zipper and one hook in the back. Unlined. ...
Hermes Birkin 35cm Bleu Saphire Novillo Leather Sea Surf & Fun w/Palladium
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Hermès Birkin 35 in Black Togo leather with Palladium Hardware embodies the quiet confidence that defines the house's most enduring creations. Rendered in deep noir, the silhouet...
Hermes Birkin 25 Gris Etain Gray Togo Leather Gold Hardware Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
As New Hermes Birkin 25 Gris Etain Togo Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. As New Plastic on all Hardware. Thank you for stopping by Lux Addicts
Hermès Gold Tone "Bouet" Scarf Ring
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Bouet" Scarf Ring Gold is a classic accessory that can be used to update and wear your scarves in a different stylish way. Comes with the original box. Scarf in picture not i...
HERMES Rouge H burgundy leather VIBRATO KELLY 35 RETOURNE Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
Hermes 'Kelly II 35 Retourne Vibrato' bag in Rouge H (burgund) Veau Evercalf leather with multicolor Vibrato panel. Rare limited edition. Lined in Rouge H Chèvre (goat skin) with two...
Exceptional Hermès Gold Pill Box Rare
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Collectible Authentic Hermès Pill Box Vintage item Numbered and signed "HERMES PARIS" Made of a round plexiglass disc decorated with a twisted yellow gold wire and a yell...
Hermès Sheriff Hat Leather Charm for Kelly or Birkin Horse Texas
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Charm Comes from the "petit h" collection In shape of a sheriff's hat, with a 6-pointed star cut out Can be used as Bag Charm for your Hermès Kelly or...
Hermès "Jour de Casting" Scarf NIB
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Jour de Casting scarf is in 100% silk with hand rolled edges, designed by artist Liz Stirling. This whimsical design, features seven well-groomed dogs dressed in collars and a...
GUCCI black leather & PYTHON NEW BAMBOO Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
Gucci 'The New Bamboo' handbag in black python with bamboo turn-lock and bamboo handle. Has a detachable shoulder strap divided in a regular strap and a woven strap with silver-tone ...
Hermès Gold Porcelain Change Tray Ashtray Carnets d'Equateur Dallet
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Change Tray Can be used as ashtray Print: "Carnets d'Equateur" Designed by Robert Dallet Theme: Africa, wild animals, jungle, leopard, parrots ...
Auth. Hermes Plaid Avalon Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Ecru Camel - New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Plaid Avalon Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Ecru Camel – NWCTS - 2602181809 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Avalon Baby Throw Blanket / Plaid Artist: Hermès Studio Size: 135 x 95 cm / 53.1 x 3...
Hermès Ecorce Togo Birkin 35 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Ecorce Togo Birkin 35 PHW SKU: Z155430 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Founded in Paris in 1837 as a harness workshop,...
Hermes Picotin Lock Cargo 18 Rose Texas Canvas Leather Bag Stamp U
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Normal signs of wear, slight darkening on the corners, minor scratches on the base, and slight storage marks inside. Accessories:Dust bag,Lock Designer: Hermes Model:Pi...
Hermès Gold Epsom Leather Kelly 25cm Sellier
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Gold Epsom Leather Kelly 25cm Sellier Product Details Xupes Ref: MML043 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 25cm Type: Top Handle, Shoulder Serial Number: G Age: 2026 Accompanied By: ...
Hermes Kelly Cut Clutch Rose Azalee Azalea Pink Swift Leather Gold Hardware Rare
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare and Most Coveted Hermes Kelly Cut Rose Azalee Swift Leather Complimented by Gold Hardware. Pristine Condition Like New! Plastic on All Hardware. Please keep in mind that this is...
Hermès 1990s Veste Soie Insectes FR38 Ecru Silk Twill Jacket UK10 US8 Hermes
By Hermès, Hugo Grygkar
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès long jacket circa 1990 in ecru silk twill with the Insectes print by Hugo Grygkar & La Torre (first produced in 1958), notched collar fastened with three mother-of-pearl butto...
Hermès Silk Scarf Hilton McConnico Souvenirs de Paris 35 inches
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Pattern: "Souvenirs de Paris" Designed by Joseph Hilton McConnico in 1989 Made in France Made of 100% Silk Colo...
HERMES black Togo leather KELLY 35 RETOURNE Bag GHW
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Kelly II 35 bag in black Veau Togo leather with gold-plated hardware. Lined in black chèvre (goatskin) with a zipper pocket against the back and divided patch p...
Hermes Rodeo Bag Charm GM Celeste Craie Rodeo Horse NEW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Rodeo Bag Charm GM Celeste Craie Rodeo Horse NEW with Hermes box. Made in France FINAL SALE.
New In Box 2013 Hermès x Comme des Garçons "Quadrige" Silk Twill Carre Scarf
By Hermès, Rei Kawakubo Comme Des Garcons
Located in Geneva, CH
When the Hermès women wear artistic director Bali Barret invited one of the most prominent and influential designers from the East - Rei Kawakubo (Comme des Garçons) - to share her v...
HERMES black 2020 SHORT LEATHER Jacket 34 XS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès jacket in black goatskin leather. Features a refined, straight-cut silhouette with a short, structured length that delivers a sleek, modern profile, complemente...
HERMES Encre blue Togo leather KELLY 35 RETOURNE Bag Gold
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Kelly 35 soulder bag in Bleu Encre Togo leather with gold-tone hardware. Lined in Bleu Saphir goat skin leather with two open pockets against the front and a zi...
Hermes Kelly Mini 20 Rose Tyrien Leather Palladium Hardware Rare Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare and Most Coveted Hermes Mini Kelly 20 Rose Tyrien Ostrich Leather Complimented by Gold Hardware. Prisitne Condition, Plastic on all Hardware. C Stamp 2018. Includes all Accessor...
Hermes Red Silk Ascot Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès red silk scarf ascot featuring an all-over flower print, a red border and a center pleat. Circa 1990s 100%silk In good vintage condition. Made in France. 45.2in (114cm) X 6.7...
Hermes Birkin 25 Poppy Orange Togo Leather Gold Hardware Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare Absolutely Stunning Hermes Birkin 25 Poppy Orange Togo Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. Excellent Prisitne Condition, Plastic on Hardware. Please keep in mind that this is...
Hermes Alfred Messenger Bag Blue Clemence Leather Crossbody Stamp R 2014
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Normal signs of use, scratches on hardware, clean inside and out. size: Width:35cm,height:25cm Designer: Hermes Model: Alfred Messenger Bag Exterior Material: Leather ...
Hermès Kelly Multipocket To Go Gold Epsom GHW H085433CC37
By Hermès
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A stylish Kelly Multipocket To Go Pouch by Hermès from the Kelly collection. The exterior of this piece features Gold Epsom calfskin leather with tonal stitching and is complemented ...
Auth. Hermes Silk Scarf Au Gré du Vent – Bordeaux Beige - Mint - Collector
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Au Gré du Vent – Bordeaux Beige MCWCT – 1912101426 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Name Design: Au Gré du Vent, By the Wind Artist: Dimitri Rybaltchenko Size: 90 cm x ...
HERMES orange Swift leather MINI JYPSIERE 22 Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Mini Jypsière 22 crossbody bag in classic Hermès Orange Veau Swift leather. A refined, modern icon blending equestrian herit...
Hermes bag 'Ring' by Catherine de Károlyi 1975
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - A Collection from 1975, under the artistic direction of Catherine de Károlyi. 25cm coffee-colored Crocodylus Porosus 'Ring' bag with a gold-plated fastener on a flap, and a...
HERMES black MATTE CROC BEARN Wallet Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Bearn Soufflet wallet in black matte alligator is a timeless statement of luxury and refinement. Featuring an elegant silhouette, it closes with a leather ...
Hermès Set of 4 Porcelain Plates Bonheurs a Paris
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Set of 4 Hermès Plates From the "Bonheurs à Paris" collection (happiness in Paris) Plates number 3, 4, 5 and 6 Places: ...
HERMES Havane brown Clemence leather BOLIDE 45 Travel Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
Hermes "Bolide" travel bag in Havane (chestnut brown) Taurillon Clemence leather. Open with a zipper on top. Lined in leather and beige cotton. Has been carried with two small black ...
Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Black Noir Epsom Leather Gold Hardware Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Absolutely Stunning Rare and Most Coveted color. Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Black Epsom Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. Pristine Condition with Plastic on all hardware and feet. ...
HERMES Etoupe taupe Clemence leather & Indigo EVELYNE 16 TPM Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Evelyne 16 TPM Crossbody Bag in Etoupe Taurillon Clemence leather with a indigo blue wool sangle strap, perforated leather "H", leather tab closure and gold-ton...
Hermes Plaid Avalon Cabriole Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Rose Airelles - New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermes Plaid Avalon Cabriole Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Rose Airelles – NWCTS - 2604231648 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Avalon Baby Blanket / Plaid Artist: Hermès Studio. Cabriole design, where applicable, is by Alice Charbin. Size: 135 x 95 cm / 53.1 x 37.4 inches Color: Rose Airelles (Lingonberry Pink), Blanc (White) Fabric: 90% Merino Wool - 10% Cashmere Approx. Issue Date: Avalon design originally created in 1988; Rose Airelles / Blanc baby blanket version is a modern 2020s issue. Condition: New With Care Tag, Never Worn, Without Box (S Item) Country of Origin: Made In Great Britain Story about the Design: Avalon is one of the most recognisable Hermès home designs. Inspired by traditional horse blankets and heraldic coats of arms, the design presents the iconic Hermès H motif in a timeless graphic style. The name Avalon refers to the mythical British island associated with Excalibur. In the baby range, the classic Avalon look is softened through delicate pastel colours, making it especially suited to a nursery or luxury baby gift. Artist's Story: The Avalon design is credited to Hermès Studio. If the Cabriole wording is retained in the listing, Hermès identifies the Cabriole design story as the work of Alice Charbin, a French illustrator known for her poetic and whimsical drawings for Hermès. Her Cabriole world celebrates childhood, movement, imagination, and the joyful relationship between a child and a faithful companion. Craftsmanship Note: This Hermès baby blanket...
Hermès Tropical Garden Pastel Silk Scarf NIB
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new pastel Tropical Garden silk scarf. Hand rolled edges. Comes with original box.
Hermes Lindy 30 Shoulder Bag Rouge Red Taurillon Leather Gold Metal 2018
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Hermes Lindy 30 shoulder bag Rouge red C Stamp Taurillon Leat Italy gold metal，The edges, handles, show minor signs of wear and discoloration; there are scratches inside, ...
Hermes Les Jardiniers du Roy by Maurice Tranchant Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf “Les Jardiniers du Roy” par Maurice Tranchant, featuring a taupe border and an Hermès signature. First issue 1967 In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in...
Hermes Acid Yellow Double Faced Cashmere Hooded Jacket
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, superbly crafted Hermes cashmere hooded jacket. New with tags. Made from the highest quality Jaune Acide or Acid Yellow double faced cashmere with chunky ribbed trims. I...
HERMES Rose Jaipur Mysore leather CONSTANCE 18 MINI Bag w Palladium
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Constance 18 mini shoulder bag in Jaipur Chèvre Mysore leather. Palladium H-Buckle closure. Lined in Veau Swift leathe...
Hermes Black Box Leather Onimaitou Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes Black box leather “Onimaitou” shoulder bag featuring a thin long strap 44.5 in. (113cm), a flat shape, unlined leather, stamped at the side. Circa 2000 In good vintage condi...
Hermès 2013 Kelly Bag Ruby Red Togo Leather 35cm Women's Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermes Kelly Bag - Red - Togo Leather 35cm - New - NWOCTS 2409141505 Type : Hermes Kelly Base Size: 35cm Height: 27cm Depth: 13cm Weight: Material: Togo Cow Calf Leather - White Sti...
Hermes Birkin 25 White Blanc Leather Gold Hardware Rare Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare Absolutely Stunning New Hermes Birkin 25 White Blanc Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. Plastic on Hardware D Stamp 2019. Please be mindful this item is preowned, not stor...
Hermès Evelyne TPM Green PHW
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
- Green - Front button fastening - Detachable shoulder strap - Perforated logo detail - Main compartment - Comes with original dust bag - Stamp B, Year 2023 - Condition: Excellent Th...
Hermès Limited Edition Birkin 35cm "Fray Fray" Brown Swift Leather Beige Canvas
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Limited edition bag from Hermès featuring the Birkin 35 Fray Fray design. Crafted in Biscuit Swift leather with Toile canvas, the construction blends sm...
Exceptional Hermès Set of 4 Swizzle Sticks Stirrers Ski Poles in Silver
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Stunning Authentic Hermès Cocktail Stirrers Can be used as Champagne whip or swizzle-stick to remove the bubbles from fizzy drinks In shape of Ski P...
HERMES Lime yellow Epsom leather EVELYNE III 29 PM Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermes Evelyne III 29 crossbody bag in Lime (bright yellow) Veau Epsom leather with contrasting ivory stitching. Adjustable canvas...
Hermès Kelly 25 Sellier Black Epsom Leather Gold Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
The Hermès Kelly 25 Sellier in Vert Bosphore Epsom leather with Palladium Hardware (PHW) is a breathtaking piece that showcases one of the brand's most enigmatic and sophisticated co...
Hermes Drag De Voyage Travel Bag Tan Brown Leather Carry On Luggage Top Handle
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Brown leather exterior - Silver colored hardware - No dustbag Condition: The bag is in overall great condition, has some minor discoloration on the piping throughout t...
Hermes Birkin 25 Blue Zellige Togo Leather Gold Hardware Rare Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Ultra Rare and highly coveted, Hermes Birkin 25 Blue Zellige Togo Leather complimented by Gold Hardware Pristine Condition, Plastic on all Hardware. C Stamp 2018. Please be mindful t...
Hermès "Faune et Flore du Texas" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Faune et Flore du Texas" Scarf is in 100% silk with hand rolled edges. Designed by Kermit Oliver the silk scarf is a classic, featuring Texas wildlife flora and fauna with a ...
New Hermes Kelly 20 Epsom Etoupe Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
The Hermès Kelly 20, commonly known as the Mini Kelly II, in Etoupe Epsom leather with Gold Hardware (GHW) is one of the most coveted and difficult-to-acquire pieces in the world of ...
Hermes Birkin 25 Sable Tan Togo Leather Gold Hardware Top Handle Bag, 2025
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Classic Stunning Hermes Birkin 25 Naturel Sable Togo Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. As New , Plastic on all Hardware. K Stamp 2025. Dimensions: 9.75 W x 5 D x 8 H in Tha...
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 70cm scarf is modern and effortless, with its versatile, creative, and playful ways of wearing. Designed ...
Hermes Birkin 25cm Bag Sellier Black Rare Box Leather New
By Hermès
Located in West Chester, PA
Hermes Birkin 25cm Sellier Black Collectors Dream Bag Very rare to find Box Leather especially in a Birkin 25 Sellier Highly Sought after by Hermes Collectors Gold Hardware Understa...
New Hermes Kelly Birkin 30 Togo Black Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
The Hermès Birkin 30 in Black (Noir) Togo leather with Gold Hardware (GHW) is the absolute pillar of the luxury handbag world. While the 25cm is a darling of the "micro-bag" era, the...
1970s Hermès Small Size Black Panther Cotton Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes Small Size Multicolor “Black Panther” terry beach towel from Hermès Pre-Owned featuring a graphic “Black Panther” print, a blue border and a Hermès signature. 100% cotton. Ci...
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.