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 Martin Margiela Autumn/Winter 1999 Black Wool Vareuse Shirt
By Hermès
Located in Manchester, GB
Hermès by Martin Margiela Autumn/Winter 1999 black wool vareuse shirt. Tagged size 42. There is a small hole on the left sleeve, and three very small holes on the right shoulder, b...
HERMES Vert Criquet green Epsom & Swift SANGLE KELLY POCKET 50mm Bag Strap
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Kelly Pocket bag strap in Vert Criquet (pastel green) Veau Swift leather is a striking blend of style and utility. It features a bold flap pocket crafted i...
Auth. Hermès Bag - Birkin 30cm Box Calf Pink New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermes Bag Birkin 30cm Box Calf Pink New - 2410152001 Brand: Hermès Type : Hermes Birkin Bag Inside Detail: N/A Base Size: 30cm Height: 22cm Depth: 16cm Weight: Material: Box Calf L...
Hermes Blue Wool Skirt with Leather and Gold Tone Closure
By Hermès
Located in New Hope, PA
THis Hermes, Paris medium weight blue wool faux wrap skirt is trimmed with blue leather at the right hip pocket and the left side closure. Gold toned hardware are used to secure the skirt. There is a hidden hook and eye and zipper at the center front. The skirt is marked a vintage size 42...
HERMES black leather Band Collar Quilted Shoulder BIKER Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
Hermès band-collar biker jacket in midnight blue lambskin with knit waistband on the back in midnight blue viscose (75%) and nylon (25%). Features a quilted storm flap on the left sh...
Hermes New Kelly 25 Gold Togo Palladium
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
New in box Hermes rare Kelly 25 cm retournè Gold togo leather and palladium hardware. Date stamp W for 2024. Detachable strap. Handle drop 3". Comes with dust cover, clochette, tiret...
HERMES black deerskin leather Bomber Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Paris Bomber jacket in black deer skin leather (100%) with a ripped collar in black silk (48%), cotton (36%), polyamid...
HERMES black leather CRUSADER Knee High Platform Boots Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès knee-high crusader boots in smooth black calfskin featuring a stacked heel and a fold-over top. Open with an inner-zipper. Have been worn and are in excellent c...
Hermès Silk Pocket Square or Scarf Les Chevaux Se Rendent au Départ Jockey Print
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Pocket Square or Scarf Print: "LES CHEVAUX SE RENDENT AU DEPART " (the horses are heading to the starting point) Pattern: Jockey suits Made in France M...
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 navy blue & grey silk KNOT 45 Twill GAVROCHE Pocket Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Knot 45 twill pocket scarf is crafted from luxurious silk (100%) and features an intricate knot motif in navy, light grey, and l...
Hermes Rodeo Bag Charm GM Jaune Blue Bleu Rodeo Horse NEW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Rodeo Bag Charm GM Jaune Blue Bleu Rodeo Horse NEW with Hermes box. Made in France FINAL SALE.
Hermès Vintage Silk Scarf Herbes Folles Lise Coutin White Blue 35 inches
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Pattern: "HERBES FOLLES" Quite rare and hard to find in this condition. Colors are gorgeous Designed by Lise Coutin in 1963 Made in France Made of 100% Silk Colorways: White, Turquoise Blue, Yellow, Red, Purple "HERMES - PARIS", no copyight before 1967 Measurements: 91 x 86 cm (35,8 x 33,85 inches) Condition: Very Good considering its age. No hole. A small pulled thread hard to see. A small stain (last picture). Hems a bit flat in some places. Will come in its Vintage Hermès Box...
Hermès Set of Mask and Elephant Matching Ashtrays Porcelain Africa Theme
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Set of 2 Hermès Ashtrays Print: Mask and Elephant African Spirit Made in France Vintage item Made of porcelain, edges and notches covered with fine gold The ba...
Hermès scarf PRESENTATION HERMES de CHEVAUX 1980 Ledoux Philippe Foulard en soie
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
PRESENTATION HERMES DES CHEVAUX 1980 Silk square Ledoux Philippe This elegant scarf represents the musketeers and their horses. The musketeers were the guard of King Louis XIII and ...
HERMES chocolat & cognac silk BOLDUC AU CARRE 90 Twill Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermes 'Bolduc au Carre 90' scarf by Caty Latham in chocolat brown silk twill (100%) with details in cognac, white, orange beige and white. Has been worn and is in exc...
Hermès "Feux d'Artifice" Blue Porcelain Ashtray Catchall 1980s Made in France
By Hermès
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
Rare 1980s Hermès "Feux d'Artifice" Blue Porcelain Ashtray – Limited Edition, Made in France Discover this exquisite vintage Hermès porcelain ashtray from the 1980s, featuring the rare and collectible “Feux d’Artifice” (Fireworks) design. Created to celebrate Hermès’ 150th anniversary in 1987, this limited-edition piece was designed by Michel Duchene and reflects the house’s timeless elegance and craftsmanship. The center showcases a gilded motif of a horseman on horseback, surrounded by intricate bursts of golden fireworks, symbolizing celebration and grandeur. The striking deep blue and gold color palette, framed with a bold border and luminous detailing, adds richness and visual impact to any interior. Versatile Functionality: While originally created as a luxury cigar ashtray, this item is equally suited as a vide-poche (catchall tray), decorative porcelain accent, or display piece for collectors of French fine porcelain and designer objets d’art. Brand: Hermès Paris Design: “Feux d’Artifice” by Michel Duchene Material: Limoges porcelain with gilt detailing Color: Royal blue, gold, and white Signed: Marked “HERMÈS PARIS” and “MADE IN FRANCE” Base: Covered in royal blue goatskin suede with Hermès monogram Includes: Original orange Hermès box (shows minor wear) Condition: Excellent, unused vintage condition Dimensions: Height: 1.5 in (3.8 cm) Width: 7.5 in (19 cm) Depth: 6 in (15.2 cm) Provenance: Made in France by Hermès, the iconic luxury house renowned for its equestrian heritage and masterful craftsmanship in leather, silk, and porcelain. 1970s–1980s collectible design. Hermès ashtray, vintage Hermès porcelain, 1980s Hermès decor, collectible Hermès tray, Feux d’Artifice ashtray, Hermès fireworks design, Michel Duchene Hermès, French luxury porcelain, blue and gold porcelain ashtray, limited edition Hermès catchall, Hermès Limoges ashtray...
HERMES black leather 2010 Vest Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier vest is crafted in black grained deerskin leather, with a silk back subtly embroidered with tonal Hs. It features a sleeveless, fitte...
Hermès Hermès celebrates its 150th anniversary Figurine Rider Horse 1837-1987
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Figurine Created to celebrate 150th anniversary of Hermès Design comes from the Hermès scarf called "Feux d'Artifice", whi...
HERMES Palladium Breloque Olga Cadena lock H logo horse dog coin bag charm chain
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Palladium Breloque Olga Cadena lock H logo horse dog coin bag charm chain Reference: TGAS/F00301 Brand: Hermes Model: Breloque Olga Cadena Material: Metal Color: Silver Patter...
HERMES Sesame Swift leather & Toile Viking canvas 24/24-35 Bag Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 24/24-35 bag in ecru-beige Toile H Viking with Sesame (beige) Veau Swift leather trims. Features an open pocket on the outside back. Closes with a gold-plated t...
HERMÈS - EILEEN Gold Necklace
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
Hermès Vintage Selection by Corrado Luxury - Gold-plated metal and blue enamel necklace model EILEEN. On the back of the pendant present a balance S. Sold complete with original box.
Hermès Mules Sabots Carlotta EU39 Black Leather Shearling Clogs UK6 US8.5 Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès clogs mules Carlotta model in black leather and ecru "shearling" sheepskin, Kelly buckle and silver metal studs, wooden platform and black leather ...
Auth. Hermès Scarf Hermès Story Abricot Beige Vert New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermès Story Abricot Beige Vert - NWSTS - 2503042129 Brand: Hermès Type: Carré Artist: Jonathan Burton Size : 90x90 cm / 35in x 35in Colour: Abricot Beige Vert Type: 100% Silk Twill...
Hermès Foulard Carré 90 Romantique 1990 Pink Silk Twill Scarf Carre Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès square scarf 90 in silk twill, Romantic pattern by Maurice Tranchant, first published in 1973, and reissued in 1990 like this one, in shades of pink. Width 90 cm x length 90 c...
Hermès 24 Cards Memory Game Western and Company Horse Texas
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Memory Game Print: Texan spirit, Horse Riding theme, Western, Rodeo Includes 12 pairs of cards, for a total of 24 cards The same drawing is found on 2 c...
Hermès Birkin 35 Black Epsom PHW
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Black Twist-Lock Fastening Single Rolled Top Handle Detachable Shoulder Strap Condition: Very Good This pre-loved bag is in very good condition, with some water marks on the outer le...
Exceptional Hermès Ashtray Change Tray Pipe Holder Pipe Shaped
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Can be used as change tray or pipe holder Pipe-shaped Vintage item Made of glazed ceramic Colorways: Beige / Brown "HERMÈS" engraved on a side M...
HERMES Gris Perle grey Mysore leather CONSTANCE 18 MIROIR Bag Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Constance 18 shoulder bag is crafted in Gris Perle (light grey) Chèvre Mysore leather, known for its fine grain and durability. The design is elevated by t...
HERMES Naturel Hunter / Criss Viking HERBAG A DOS ZIP RETOURNE Backpack Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Herbag a Dos Zip Retourne backpage in Naturel Vache Hunter leather and Ecru-Beige Toile Criss Viking canvas. Features a z...
Hermes Haut à Courroies Hac 40 Travel Duffle Bag Tan White Gold Vintage 1960s
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Circa 1960's - Gold Hardware - Very rare Bi Color - The bag has been reconditioned - No key ( Lock is Stuck On ) - Can be removed with tool if needed Condition: This ...
Hermes 1997 Sac Pochette ceinture Floride Barenia leather bag clutch on belt
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès pouch on belt, Floride model, in Barenia leather (natural camel color) composed of a simple pouch closed with 2 "Clou de selle" motif snaps in gold metal and a matching belt t...
Hermès Vintage Aline Rocabar Shoulder Bag with Multicolor Handles
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
Hermès Vintage Selection By Corrado Luxury - Rare Aline model shoulder bag with Rocabar wool fabric. Multicolored cord handles with leather trim. Sold with original box. Measurements...
HERMES Gris Claire Feutre / Gold Swift leather PICOTIN 22 Bag Phw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Picotin 22 bag in Gris Claire (light grey) wool felt exudes understated elegance. Featuring Gold (camel) Veau Swift leather trims with contrasting white st...
Hermès Set of 2 Ties Castle and Fleur-de-Lis Prints in Silk
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Set of 2 Beautiful and Rare Authentic Hermès Ties Castle matches Fleur-de-lis, because the fleur-de-lys (in french) is the symbol of the coat of arms of royal France, at the time of the monarchy, kings and castles Left one: Castles print...
Auth. Hermès Scarf Index Bromeliaceae - Blanc Corail New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Index Bromeliaceae - Blanc Corail - NWSTS - 2503081516 Brand: Hermès Type: Carré Artist: Katie Scott Size : 90x90 cm / 35in x 35in Colour: Blanc Corail Type: 100% Silk Twill Country...
Hermes Birkin 30 Rouge Casaque Red Epsom Leather With Palladium Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
The Hermès Birkin 30 in Rouge Casaque Epsom leather is the ultimate statement piece for the modern luxury wardrobe. Crafted with Hermès’ renowned precision and artistry, this Birkin ...
Hermès Bleu Pale Swift Leather Kelly Cut
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Bleu Pale Swift Leather Kelly Cut Product Details Xupes Ref: MML014 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly Cut Type: Clutch, Top Handle Serial Number: Z Age: 2021 Accompanied By: Hermès ...
Hermès Toffee Epsom Constance Long Wallet To Go GHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Toffee Epsom Constance Long Wallet To Go GHW SKU: Z151546 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: In 1967, an Hermès bag was b...
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 Rose Scheherazade Shiny Mississippiensis Alligator Leather Kelly 20cm II
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Rose Scheherazade Shiny Mississippiensis Alligator Leather Kelly 20cm II Product Details Xupes Ref: MML017 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 20cm II Type: Top Handle, Shoulder Seria...
HERMES black leather 2024 HEDEN 80 Sandals Shoes 36
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Heden 80 sandals in black calfskin leather exude timeless elegance with a modern edge. Featuring the iconic H-shaped toe strap and a delicate ankle strap, ...
HERMES Etain Clemence leather ETRIVIERE 40 Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Étrivière 40 belt is crafted from supple Clemence leather in the sophisticated shade of Etain and finished with a sleek palladium buckle. Showcasing Hermès...
Exceptional Hermès Kelly 32 Toile Barenia Special Edition India Gange RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Stunning and Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Bag "KELLY II" retourné Special Edition for the Year of India, also called "Gange" A must-have for any H...
Hermès Porcelain Cigar Ashtay Change Tray Yacht Porthole Boat Navy Theme
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Lovely Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: porthole, lifebuoy and pulleys Ideal for your yacht or perfect gift for any boat, sea, navy, navigation and sailing lover Made in F...
Hermès Feu Orange Togo Leather Birkin 25cm Retourne
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Feu Orange Togo Leather Birkin 25cm Retourne Product Details Xupes Ref: MML021 Brand: Hermès Model: Birkin 25cm Type: Tote Serial Number: Z Age: 2021 Accompanied By: Hermès D...
Hermes Vintage Kelly 50 Red Bordeaux Gold Hardware Travel Carry On Duffle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Red Exterior - Gold Hardware - Should Strap - Lock & Key - Stamp D ( Year 2000 ) Condition: The bag is in great shape with no major imperfections, the bag has light p...
Hermès Dolphins Print Cigar Ashtray Porcelain Platinum
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely and so rare authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: 3 jumping Dolphins Made in France Made in 1979 for the first flight of Boeing 747 for UTA (Union de Transports Aériens - Air T...
HERMES red & pink leather LTD ED JUMPING Knee High Flat Boots Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 'Jumping Limited Edition' boots in red and pink box leather. Brand new. Comes with box and dust bag. Measurements Imprinted Size 38 Sh...
Hermès Sac Herbag Black Canvas Leather Back Pack x2 Pristine Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Herbag model bag in 2 versions to carry by hand or as a backpack, composed of a small Kelly bag format pouch in black canvas and a larger Kelly Ado bag format, mobile part in ...
HERMES black yellow blue silk CARRE CUBE Turtleneck Sweater 40 M
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Carre Cube turtleneck sweater in black, petrol, mustard and grey silk (100%). Has been worn and the fabric in the armpits has slightly brightened. Overall in ve...
Hermes Les Chevaux des Moghols by J. de Fougerolle Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès « Les Chevaux des Moghols » by Jean de Fougerolle silk scarf featuring a yellow border, a Hermès signature. Circa 1993 In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in. (90c...
Hermès Grey Tropical Garden Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new Tropical Garden silk scarf. Yellow and grey color way. Hand rolled edges. Comes with original box.
Hermès Gloves Gloves Holder Key Holder Red Leather Golden Hdw
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Super Chic Authentic Hermès Gloves Holder Can be used as gloves holder (for thin gloves), key holder, charm Made in France Made of ostrich leath...
HERMES orange Toile & brown Negonda leather GARDEN PARTY 36 Tote Bag Phw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Garden Party 36 tote bag is crafted in vibrant orange Toile Militaire canvas with Marron d'Inde brown Veau Negonda leather trims and orange stitching. It f...
HERMÈS - Pull Col Blouson Maxi Cashmere 87 Taupe LA
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
Hermès Selection by Corrado Luxury - Gorgeous pure cashmere sweater, list price 2700 Euro. Measurements: Length 65 cm, chest width 53 cm. Five metal press studs signed Hermès Paris. ...
Hermés Shiny Alligator Medor Clutch - '10s
By Hermès
Located in Milano, IT
Elegant and sophisticated, the Hermès Shiny Alligator Medor Clutch is the perfect accessory for those seeking style and functionality. Crafted from high-quality shiny alligator leath...
HERMES Vert Claire green Courchevel leather SAC A DEPECHES 2-38 Briefcase Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Sac a Depeches 2-38 briefcase in Vert Claire green Veau Courchevel leather featuring gold-plated flip-lock buckle. Interior is unlined and has two main compartm...
HERMES Toffee Bordeaux Lime Evercolor leather MAXIBOX CABAS 36 Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès tricolor Maxibox Cabas 36 tote in Toffee brown Veau Evercolor leather with Lime and Bordeaux Epsom trimmings. Lined in off-white canvas with one zipper pocket a...
Hermes BNIB Kelly 28 Retournè Gold Togo
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Brand new in box Hermes Kelly Bag 28 retourne gold togo leather with palladium tone hardware. Contrast white stitching. Detachable leather strap. Date stamp W for 2025. Comes with cl...
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.