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 1980s Haut À Courroies HAC 60 Black Natural Tan Vache Fjord Box Calf Gold
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Circa late 1980. - Discontinued size " 60 " - Brand new handles & singles ( Straps ) with ORIGINAL HARDWARE - Noir Fjord & Tan box leather exterior - The bag will c...
Hermes Mini Lindy 20 Rose Sakura Pink Clemence PHW Shoulder Bag 2026
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition Minor signs of wear, clean inside and out. Accessories Dust bag Size Width: 20cm, Height: 13cm Designer Hermes Model Mini Lindy 20 Exterior Material Leather Exterior Color...
Exceptional Hermès Tennis Racquet Shaped Pill Box Rare
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Collectible Authentic Hermès Pill Box Tennis Racquet Shaped Vintage item Made of metal The lid is made of transparent plastic on which are drawn lines representing the r...
Hermes Chaine D Ancre Blue Porcelain Ashtray Organizer
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès "Chaîne D'Ancre" Porcelain organizer or Ashtray featuring a Chaîne d'ancre design, contrasting trim, a Hermes signature. Circa 2000s In good vintage condition. Maxi Length ...
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...
Sac Hermès Birkin 35 Taurillon Ebene 2008
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Superbe Birkin 35 Clémence Ébène datant de 2008, sublimé par des finitions Palladium. Cet exemplaire revient du SPA Hermès, où il a bénéficié du savoir-faire de la Maison. Présenté ...
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 ...
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 Birkin 25 Craie Togo Leather With Palladium Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
This Birkin is in Craie Togo leather with palladium hardware and has tonal stitching, two straps with front toggle closure, a clochette with lock and two keys, and double rolled hand...
Hermes Vintage 1970s Kelly 28 Navy Blue Box Calfskin Leather Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Midnight blue exterior - Comes with lock and key - No box or dustbag Condition: The bag is in overall great condition for its age, the bag has been retouched, the shape has ...
HERMES Orange Minium & Fauv HERBAG ZIP CABINE 50 Bag Toile / Hunter
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Herbag Zip Cabine 50 Bag is a refined travel companion that fuses functionality with timeless style. Crafted from vibrant Orange Minium Toile Militaire can...
Brand New Hermès Noel au 24 Faubourg Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Very rare Brand New Hermès "Noel au 24 Faubourg" Silk Scarf designed by Dimitri Rybaltchenko in 2004, in its box. Edition unique, jamais réédité. 90 cm
Hermes Kelly Sellier 25 Bag Bai Brun Ecru Toile H Swift and Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
The Hermès Kelly 25 in Bai Brun and Toile offers a refined interpretation of the classic silhouette through a combination of rich leather and textured canvas. This pairing introduces...
HERMES Etoupe Epsom black Swift leather GAMMA 24mm Reversible Belt 85
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermes Gamma 24mm reversible belt in Etoupe (taupe) Epsom and black Veau Epsom swift leather with palladium buckle. Has been worn and is in...
Hermès "Clair de Lune" Cashmere Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Clair de Lune" shawl in black and white is made of cashmere/silk with hand-rolled edges. The design, created by artist Dimitri Rybaltenko, features a large moon with the figu...
Sac Hermès Kelly 28 Bicolore Epsom Bandoulière
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Sac Hermès Kelly 28 bicolore en cuir Epsom bleu nuit et Light Gold, finitions dorées. Excellent état avec bandoulière. Ce sac Hermès Kelly 28 bicolo...
HERMES Casaque red Clemence leather KELLY 28 RETOURNE Bag Ghw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Kelly 28 Retourne bag is crafted in Rouge Casaque Taurillon Clemence leather with gold-plated hardware. The supple Retourne construction gives it a slightl...
Hermes Kelly 40 Togo Leather Rouge H Deep Red Palladium Hardware 2014
By Hermès
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Hermes Kelly 40 Togo Leather Rouge H Deep Red Palladium Hardware 2014 These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. Condition: VERY GOOD CONDITION Overall signs...
$312Sale Price|20% Off
Hermes 1994 "Astres et Soleil" Rare Silk 16.5"x16.5" Scarf by A. Faivre
By Hermès
Located in Port Hope, ON
This a collector's Hermes scarf! The 1994 silk scarf designed by Anne Faivre is an hommage to ancient Inca civilization. The scarf predominantly features people in traditional dress ...
HERMÈS scarf VENDANGES
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
Hermès twill silk scarf VENDANGES Designed by Valerie Dawlat-Dumoulin 2001 100% silk Copyright Hand rolled hem Tag care Made in France Ivory, red, brown Approx. cm. 90 x 90 - 36" x ...
$8,402Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage Hermès Constance 23 Rouge H Box Calf Leather
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
An authentic and exceptionally rare vintage Hermès Constance Product Specifications Brand: Hermès Model: Constance 23 Material: Box Calf Leather (Cuir Box) Color: Rouge H (Classic H...
$450Sale Price|40% Off
Vintage Hermès “Jumping” Silk Scarf Philippe Ledoux Equestrian 35” Vintage 1970s
By Hermès
Located in San Diego, CA
Add an iconic equestrian touch to your collection with this authentic vintage Hermès “Jumping” silk scarf, designed by renowned artist Philippe Ledoux and first released in 1971. Cra...
Hermès Padlock Charm Keyring Horse Head
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Lovely Authentic Hermès Padlock Can be used as a charm or keyring thanks to its ring In shape of a horse's head Made of brushed metal on the faces, unbrushed metal on the...
Hermès Evelyne TPM Sesame Brown Leather Crossbody Bag with Dust Bag
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
- Sesame Brown - Signature perforated H logo - Detachable shoulder strap - Strap and press-stud fastening - Main compartment - Silver-tone hardware - This piece comes complete with a...
Hermès Birkin 30 Blue Cobalt Togo Gold
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès 30cm Birkin bag in gold togo leather and palladium hardware. Partial plastic on hardware, worn a few times. Handle drop, 3"L. Includes clochette, tirette, lock, keys, 2 dust b...
HERMES checked 100% cotton made in france collared long sleeve shirt EU39 M
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES blue white checked 100% cotton made in france collared long sleeve shirt EU39 M Reference: LACG/A00478 Brand: Hermes Material: Cotton Color: White, Blue Pattern: Checkered Cl...
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...
Auth. Hermes Shawl CS140 Monsieur et Madame II - CS140 - orange Green Brown NEW
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermès Monsieur et Madame II – CS140 – Orange Clair Vert Marron – NWSTS 1604191310 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Shawl 140 Cashmere Silk Name Design: Monsieur et Madame II, Monsieur and Madame II Artist: Bali Barret & Robert Dallet Size: 140 cm x 140 cm / 55 in x 55 in Color: Orange Clair (Light Orange), Vert (Green), Marron (Brown) Fabric: 65% Cashmere, 35% Silk, hand-rolled edges Approx. Issue Date: 2013 (first issued) Condition: New With Store Tag, Never Worn, Without Box (S Item) Country of Origin: Made in France Story about the Design: Monsieur et Madame II is a whimsical and iconic Hermès design inspired by an Art Deco-era Hermès advertisement from the 1920s. The scarf depicts the silhouetted figures of a gentleman and a lady, but look closely – each silhouette is filled with a collage of Hermès’s most beloved objects. For Madame, one can spot items like a Birkin handbag adorned with a Twilly, a Chaîne d’Ancre bracelet, and a Harnais watch, among others. Monsieur’s profile features treasures such as a Cape Cod watch...
Sac Hermès Victoria 40 toile et cuir
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Sac Hermès Victoria 40 en toile beige et cuir marron clair. Grand format élégant, idéal pour une utilisation quotidienne. Authentifié, en très bon état. Le sac Hermès Victoria 40 es...
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 ...
Auth. Hermès Scarf Lettres Équestres - Bleu Azur Vert Rose New Store Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Lettres Équestres - Bleu Azur Vert Rose - NWSTS - 2507101641 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Artist: Hermès In-House Design Team Size: 90 cm x 90 cm / 35 in x 35 in Co...
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 ...
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 New Large Feu Bride-a-Brac Pouch Bag
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new large orange bride-a-brac canvas toile case. Comes with original orange box.
New Hermes Kelly Birkin 25 Togo Black Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
The Hermès Birkin 25 in Etoupe Togo leather with Palladium Hardware (PHW) is the ultimate benchmark for luxury and versatility. This "Baby Birkin" is a true collector's piece, featur...
Hermes Black Calf and Suede Gloves
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Elegant Hermes black calf glove with suede lace-up cuffs. Made in France.
Very Good condition, Size 6.5
Auth. Hermes Plaid Avalon Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Genévrier Blanc - New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Plaid Avalon Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Genévrier Blanc – NWCTS – 2510281928 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Avalon Baby Blanket / Plaid Artist: Not applicable / no specific artist credite...
Hermès Fuschia Shiny Crocodile Porosus Birkin 35 Palladium Hardware, 2014
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
This Hermès Birkin 35 in fuchsia shiny porosus crocodile from 2014 is a striking example of the house’s craftsmanship, paired with palladium hardware. The structured silhouette is so...
Hermes Paris Grey Canvas Her Line Herline MM Yale Tote Bag
By Hermès
Located in Rome, Rome
Discover the timeless appeal of this authentic Hermes Herline MM Yale Tote Bag, a classic piece from the 1990s. Crafted in France from durable blue canvas, this medium-sized tote fea...
Hermès Women's H Cashmere Leather Coat, Size FR36/UK8, Excellent
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
The luxest ever Hermes H cashmere and leather coat. Bought for £9500 and worn once. Made from incredibly soft cream cashmere with tan deerskin H detailing. It has a timeless, slight...
Hermès 2024 Evelyne TPM Dark Green Clemence Leather Crossbody Bag
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Dark green Leather tab with snap closure Front with perforated "H" logo Plain Wooly canvas shoulder strap Comes with the original box, dust bag and strap Stamp W. Year 2024 Condition...
Hermès "Kachinas" Triangle Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Kachinas" scarf is in 100% silk, designed by the artist Kermit Oliver is in the triangle size with light blue back ground. Comes with original box.
New Hermes Kelly 25 Depeches VEAU Togo Etoupe Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
The Hermès Kelly Depeches 25 in Etoupe Veau Togo leather with Palladium Hardware (PHW) is a sophisticated, modern reimagining of the classic Kelly aesthetic. Moving away from the tra...
HERMES oatmeal cashmere silk CAVALCADOUR 140 Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 'Cavalcadour 140' shawl by Henri d'Origny in ivory cashmere (65%) and silk (35%) with details in yellow, brown, dark green and olive. Has been worn and is in excellent condition. Story Behind: Cavalcadour is a joyous cavalcade of reins which twist and turn like ribbons. Decorated with delicately worked fleur de lys buckles and the crown of France, they are inspired by the buckles worn by the horses of the Count of Chambord. He was the grandson of Charles X, son of the Duke of Berry and last in the line of the senior branch of the Bourbons. The designer borrowed these reins from the Emile Hermès collection and dreamt up bits and spurs...
HERMES Nuit blue Togo leather KELLY 28 RETOURNE Bag Phw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Kelly 28 Retourne Bag in Nuit is a timeless icon of refined luxury and craftsmanship. Expertly crafted from supple Togo leather, the Retourne construction ...
Hermès Ecru Beige Naturel Criss Viking Hunter Sable Herbag Zip Cabine 50 Bag
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Ecru Beige Naturel Criss Viking Hunter Sable Herbag Zip Cabine 50 Bag SKU: 156047 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Founded in Paris in 1837 as a harn...
Sac Hermès HAC 32 Vintage Vache Naturelle
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Sac Hermès HAC 32 vintage en cuir vache naturelle, finitions gold. Patine authentique et traces d’usage. Ce sac Hermès HAC 32 vintage, réalisé en cuir v...
Hermes Deers Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Rare vintage Hermès "Deers" Beach Towel in 100% Terry Cotton Dimensions : 35.4" x 59.1" appr. Condition : Pristine
HERMES camel brown suede LEGEND WEDGE Sandals Shoes 36
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Legend sandal is crafted in camel suede and features the Maison’s iconic “H” cut-out across the front. Designed with a ...
Hermes "Raconte-moi le Cheval" Rocking Horse Silk Twill Women's Vest
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Vintage Hermes "Raconte-moi le Cheval" Rocking Horse Silk vest. This vintage "Raconte Moi le Cheval" (Tell Me About the Horse) vest has an equestrian theme, with colorful rocking ho...
HERMES Pantyhose Vintage NEW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes 2 pairs of pantyhose Size not listed ,my personal opinion is that these are size S H printed at waist Original paper bag included FINAL SALE
Hermès Birkin 35 Violet Togo Palladium
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Birkin 35 in violet togo leather with palladium hardware and tonal stitching, Front flap, two straps with center toggle closure, a clochette with lock, two keys and doubl...
Hermès Tigre du Bengale 90 Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Rare Hermès "Tigre du Bengale" 90 Silk Scarf with box, designed by Robert Dallet. Condition : Pristine
Hermes Victoria II Fourre-Tout 35 Brique Red Clemence Leather Bag Silver 2011
By Hermès
Located in Guangzhou, CN
True style is not about demanding attention; it’s about capturing the essence of effortless grace wherever your journey takes you. Born from the unparalleled heritage of **Hermès**...
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...
Hermès Yellow Gold Money Clip Numbered Stirrup Spur Texas
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exeptional and Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Moeny Clip In shape of stirrup with a spur Equestrian theme, horse ridding, Texas Vintage Item Made of yellow gold (eaggle head hallmark ...
Hermes Birkin Shoulder 42 Blue Sapphire Clemence Leather PHW - Preowned
By Hermès
Located in Forest Park, GA
Hermes Birkin Shoulder 42 Blue Sapphire Clemence Leather Palladium Hardware - Preowned An extraordinary celebration of architectural silhouette and deep color, this rare Shoulder Bi...
Hermes Birkin 30 Blue Atoll Epsom Leather Gold Hardware Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Absolutely Stunning Hermes Birkin 30 Blue Atoll " Tiffany Blue" Epsom Leather Complimented by Gold Hardware . Pristine Condition with Plastic on all Hardware. Please keep in mind t...
Hermès Ceinture A composer T80 Constance Rose Gold Reversible Leather Belt US32
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès model A Composer belt including a Constance model belt buckle in rose gold-plated metal and a reversible black leather link on one side and ecru cream on the other, all delive...
Hermès Birkin 30 Rose Pourpre Togo
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Birkin 30 in Rose Pourpre is featured in a classic togo leather. The bag features rolled leather top handles and palladium hardware.The top opens to a matching goatskin leather ...
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.