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 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 Constance 18 Turquoise (T9) Matte Alligator – Palladium Hardware - '00s
By Hermès
Located in Milano, Lombardia
A truly exceptional and rare piece, this Hermès Constance 18 in Turquoise (T9) Matte Alligator represents one of the most refined expressions of the Maison’s exotic craftsmanship. T...
Hermès Birkin 30 Etoupe Epsom Leather With Gold Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
The Hermès Birkin 30 Etoupe Epsom Leather with Gold Hardware is one of the most sought-after luxury handbags in the world, combining timeless elegance...
Hermès "The Savana Dance" Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès silk and cashmere blend shawl, “the savana dance” with multicolor design. Hand rolled trim, design by Ardmore Artists.
Hermes Birkin 25 Bleu Atoll with gold hardware handbag
By Hermès
Located in London, England
Hermes Birkin 25 in Blue Atoll colour swift leather with Gold hardware. One of the rare colors of Hermes. This item is in excellent condition with all stickers on. Comes with Dust B...
Hermes Camel Cashmere Jumper
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes 1980s camel cashmere jumper featuring a horse-head motif, a round turtle neck, long sleeves. Composition: 100% cashmere Label size 38fr/US6 /UK10 In good vintage condition. Ma...
Hermès "Pani La Shar Pawnee" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès "Pani La Shar Pawnee" Scarf in 100% silk blue features hand-rolled edges. Original design by Kermit Oliver depicting the Pawnee chief, native american tribe from Nebraska...
Auth. Hermès Scarf Tea for Two - Rose Poudré Blanc - New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Tea for Two - Rose Poudré Blanc - NWST - 2504181229 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Artist: Jonathan Burton Size: 90 cm x 90 cm / 35 in x 35 in Color: Rose Poudré (Pow...
Hermes Birkin Size 30 Grimist Togo Leather With Gold Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
The Hermès Birkin 30 Togo Leather with Gold Hardware is the ultimate expression of timeless luxury and exclusivity. Crafted by expert artisans at Hermès, this iconic handbag blends s...
Hermès Black Noir Swift Leather Kelly Cut Clutch Bag
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Hermès Black Noir Swift Leather Kelly Cut Clutch Bag with palladium hardware is a sophisticated and versatile accessory that embodies timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship. Crafted from luxurious Swift leather, this clutch offers a sleek, smooth finish that enhances its refined appearance. Its minimalist design makes it perfect for both day and evening events, easily elevating any ensemble. The clutch’s understated elegance pairs beautifully with a variety of designer items, such as a Chanel Little Black Dress, Gucci leather loafers...
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...
HERMES brown suede EMBROIDERED CRUSADER Knee High Platform Boots Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès knee-high boots in dark brown featuring a stacked heel, black complementing zigzag embroidery and a fold-over top. Open with an inner-zipper. Have been worn wit...
HERMES Gris Tourterelle grey Clemence leather & Palladium KELLY 35 Retourne Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
Hermès "35cm Kelly Retourne" handbag in Gris Tourterelle Togo (Calfskin leather) with palladium hardware. Lined in Gris Tourterelle goat skin leather with two open pockets against th...
Hermès Gold Courchevel Leather Micro Trim 15cm with Gold Hardware, 1991.
By Hermès
Located in Banner Elk, NC
Hermès Gold Courchevel Leather Micro Trim 15cm Bag with Gold Hardware, 1991. Originally introduced in 1958, the Trim bag design pays homage to the brand’s long-running equestrian roo...
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 ...
Hermès Kelly 35 Beige Togo GHW
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Beige Clemence leather Gold-tone hardware Single top handle Main compartment Internal zip-fastening pocket Internal patch pocket Detachable shoulder strap Comes with padlock, key, ...
Hermes Black Leather Gloves with Silk Lining in Original Box
By Hermès
Located in New Hope, PA
These supple black leather gloves have a white silk lining which bears the Hermes label. They are in very good condition, marked a size 6 1/2. If you ar...
Hermes Birkin 35 Diamond Blanc Himalaya Matte Crocodile Limited Edition Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers the Hermès Diamond Blanc Himalaya Birkin 35 representing the ultimate expression of rarity and refined craftsmanship. It unites artis...
Hermes Paris Equestrian Print Red Silk Necktie in Hermes Box
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Paris Equestrian silk print red necktie in Hermes Box c 1990s The stylish silk necktie is illustrated with a series of facing horse figures set against a muted red background. Hermes' H initial...
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 Mimile Navy Cotton Backpack Bag
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes 1990s navy "Mimile-Marin”cotton backpack bag featuring a front “H” embroidered logo, a natural leather shoulder tie and a fabric logo label. 100% cotton. Circa1990s In good...
Hermès Birkin 25 Bleu De Prusse Togo Leather With Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
Hermès' Blue de Prusse is a captivating, deep navy blue hue that made its first appearance in the brand's color palette in 2003. Recognized for its elegance, this color has become a ...
Hermès "Les Bassets" Scarf New in Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Les Bassets" scarf, is in 100% silk in the blue colorway with hand rolled edges, designed by the renowned animal artist Xavier de Poret. New in ori...
Hermes HAC Birkin 40 Bag Black Toile and Togo Leather with Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers The Hermès HAC 40 in Black with crisp Black and Ecru Toile represents timeless sophistication grounded in heritage design. Crafted from Togo leather and accented wi...
Hermes Roule Shopping Cart Roler Matte Havane Porosus Crocodile & Printed Toile
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
This extraordinary limited edition Hermès Roule Birkin bag is a rare Petit h creation that reimagines the iconic Birkin in a functional rolling form. Originally conceived within the ...
Hermès Letter Opener Paper Cutter Measuring Tape by Ravinet d'Enfert
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare Authentic Hermès Letter Opener In shape of a measuring tape Graduated from 1 to 15 cm (1 cm = 0.39 inch) Made by Ravinet d'Enfert for Hermès Vintage Item Made o...
Hermès Silk Scarf Rêverie Solitaire Florence Manlik 90 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "REVERIE SOLITAIRE" (solitary reverie) Designed by Florence Manlik Made in France Made of 100% Silk Colorway 06: BLANC / ORANGE / SOLEIL (w...
Hermès Birkin 25 Etoupe Epsom Sellier Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Forest Park, GA
Hermès Birkin 25 Etoupe Epsom Sellier Palladium Hardware The Hermès Birkin 25 in Etoupe is a timeless expression of understated luxury. ...
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 1996 Foulard Carré 90 Fantaisies Indiennes Silk Twill Scarf Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès square scarf, size 90, in silk twill, Indian Fantasies print by Loïc Dubigeon, first produced in 1986 and reissued in 1992 and 1996 (like this one), in autumnal colors. Approx...
Hermès Gold and Silver Money Clip Paper Clip Gaetan de Percin Rare
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Clip Can be used as money clip, paper clip, bookmark Designed by Gaetan de Percin (hallmark at back) Body made of sterling silver (Ag 925) and...
Hermes Birkin 25 Black Togo Leather With Palladium Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
This Birkin is in Black togo leather with palladium hardware, has tonal stitching, a front flap, two straps with a center toggle closure, a clochette with lock and two keys, and doub...
HERMES Rouge Vif red Skipper leather BIRKIN 35 Bag Palladium
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 'Birkin 35' bag in Rouge Vif (true red) Skipper leather with palladium hardware. Lined in Chevre (goat skin) with an open pocket against the front and a zipper ...
Hermès Change Tray Ashtray Setter Dog carrying a Kelly Bag
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Adorable Authentic Hermès Change tray Print: Dog carrying a Kelly bag Can be used as ashtray, but no notches for that purpose Made of Porcelain Colo...
HERMES Beige Sable suede EXTRA CHAINE D'ANCRE Slide Sandals Shoes 37.5 fit 37
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Extra slide sandals are crafted in Beige Sable (sand) suede and smooth leather. The design features the house’s iconic Chaîne d’Ancre–inspired strap, roun...
Hermès Black Epsom Bearn Wallet PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Black Epsom Bearn Wallet PHW SKU: 153580 Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Very Good Condition Comments: Item is in very good condition with minor signs ...
Auth Hermes Scarf Della Cavalleria Double Face Blanc Orange Rose - New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Della Cavalleria Double Face - Blanc Orange Rose - NWST - 2604131909 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill - Double-Sided Print. Name Design: Della Cavalleria, Della Cavalle...
Hermès Kelly Sellier 35 Flag Blue White
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
The Hermès Kelly 35 sellier Flag Handbag in Bleu Thalassa and White Epsom leather with Palladium hardware is a classic and rare find. Limited production customized item. Date stamp R...
Hermès New Lazy Leopardess Orange Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new Lazy Leopardess silk scarf . Orange color way. Hand rolled edges. Comes with original box.
Hermès Equestre Playing Cards New In Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Equestre Playing Cards Set contains two decks of bridge playing cards with 54 cards in each. The cards features silver-edges and multi colo...
Hermès Birkin 30 Sellier Black Madame Leather With Gold Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
The Hermès Birkin 30 Sellier in Black Madame Leather with Gold Hardware represents one of the most refined interpretations of the iconic Birkin silhouette. features the rare Sellier ...
Hermès 1970's White Linen Blazer
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This incredible late 1970s Hermès blazer is the epitome of quiet luxury. Crafted from bright white linen, this minimalist masterpiece features an angular collar, arched decorative we...
Hermes Vintage Black and Grey Cotton Fourre Tout PM Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Rome, Rome
Transport yourself to the 1990s with this classic Hermes Fourre-Tout, a model that redefined casual luxury with its practical yet sophisticated design. This small-sized tote, expertl...
HERMES JYPSIERE 31 Stamp Q Crayfish Powder Shoulder Bag 2013
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: HERMES JYPSIERE 31 Stamp Q Crayfish powder shoulder bag handbag France，There are minor signs of wear and scratches on the interior hardwa...
Hermes Silky City 33 Vif Argent Orange Silk Leather White Bag PHW
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: Normal signs of daily use. Hardware has scratches; fabric surface shows slight wear and minor dirt...
Hermes Kelly 25 Black box leather with palladium hardware handbag
By Hermès
Located in London, England
Hermes Kelly 25 in Black color, box leather and palladium hardware handbag. A very rare bag in box leather and palladium hardware that is such a classic timeless combo. Year 2025 Com...
Hermès Birkin 35 Black De Coromandel Chevre Leather With Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
The Hermès Birkin 35 in Black De Coromandel D Chevre with Gold hardware. Chevre goatskin is prized for its tight grain, color vibrancy, and exceptional durability. It's lighter than ...
Hermès Per Astra Ad Astra Silk Scarf Pink Green Sandra Laroche 90 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "Per Astra Ad Astra" Designed by Sandra Laroche and firstly issued in 2009 Made in France Made of 100% twil...
Hermès "Le Voyage de Pythéas" Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Le Voyage de Pythéas", is in 100% silk with hand rolled edges, created by designer Aline Honoré.
HERMES dark brown suede LOCK Knee High Boots Shoes 38.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès knee-high almond-toe boots in brown suede leather embellished with Palladium lock depeches. Open with a zipper on the inside. Have been worn and are in excelle...
Hermes NIB Birkin 30 Blue Atoll Epsom
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès 30cm Birkin bag in blue atoll epsom leather and palladium hardware. Plastic on hardware, worn a few times. Handle drop, 3"L. Includes clochette, tirette, lock, keys, felt, 2 d...
New in Box Hermes Orange Guepards Maxi Twilly Thin Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
New in Box Hermes orange guepards thin maxi twilly. 100% silk, comes with original orange box and instructions booklet.
Hermès Jumbo "Hook" Scarf Ring
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Jumbo "Hook" Scarf Ring make it an easy way to update your fashion statement. Crafted in gold-tone metal, this Hermes ring comes detailed with Jumbo Hook pattern. Scarf in pic...
Hermès Contemporary Porcelain Coin Purse by Tong Ren, Unisex, New
By Hermès
Located in Capri, IT
Porcelain coin purse - Base lined with suede - Hand-painted gold trim - Screen-printed decoration applied by hand - “Hermès Paris” signature hot-stamped on the back Made in France ...
New in Box Hermes Limited Edition Pegase Pop Silk Gavroche Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes limited edition "Le pegase pop" by Dimitri Rybalchenko. Silk gavroche, brand new in original box.
Auth Hermes Scarf Della Cavalleria Double Face Beige Doré Vert - New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Della Cavalleria Double Face - Beige Doré Vert Multicolore - NWST - 2604131729 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill - Double-Sided Print Name Design: Della Cavalleria, Dell...
Hermes Verrou Chaine Mini Bag Box Leather Gray SHW Silver Hardware Stamp Y
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Normal signs of use, scratches on the hardware, wear on the four corners, minor surface scratches, and the interior is clean. Accessories: Original Duat bag size: Width:...
Hermes Kelly Sellier 25 Bag Nata Chai and Gris Meyer Palladium Hardware Epsom
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a limited edition Hermes Kelly 25 bag featured in Nata, Chai and Gris Meyer. A stunning combination of neutral hues to compliment a wide variety of your wardrobe. T...
Hermès Lim. Ed. Pawnee Bandana Scarf NEW IN BOX
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès silk twill Pani La Shar Pawnee 90cm scarf in black with blue color. Designed by artist Kermit Oliver. Limited edition reissue "bandana" with reverse blue and celeste design. B...
HERMES Poussin yellow Epsom leather KELLY 28 SELLIER Bag Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Kelly 28 Sellier bag in Jaune Poussin (vanilla) Veau Epsom leather is a timeless classic. Featuring elegant tonal stitching and Palladium hardware, it embo...
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.