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 Green "Planifleurs" Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Planifleurs" Silk Scarf is in the teal green color way and features a multi color floral motif. The scarf is 100% silk and features hand rolled edges. No box included.
Exceptional Set of 4 Hermès Ties from The Fables of La Fontaine in Silk
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Set of 4 Authentic Hermès Ties Prints: Les Fables de La Fontaine From left to right: 1. The Hare and the Tortoise in green, grey, orange, blue. 100% Silk. Lined with plain gr...
Hermès Les Perroquets Parrots Metz Cashmere Silk 90 cm Scarf Wrap Shawl
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Pattern: "Les Perroquets" (Parrots) Designed by Joachim Metz in 1984 Made in France Made of 65% Cashmere and 35% Si...
HERMES brown alpaca HOODE Muffler Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès chunky knit muffler scarf is crafted from light brown alpaca (100%) for ultimate warmth and softness. It features a practical hood, two patch pockets, and ...
Hermes Brown Negonda Garden Party 36 Tote Bag
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Hermes Brown Negonda Garden Party 36 Tote Bag is a sophisticated and versatile accessory that seamlessly blends luxury with practicality. Crafted from high-quality Negonda leather wi...
New Hermes Kelly Depeches 25 Pouch Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
The Hermès Kelly Depeches 25 Pouch in Palladium Hardware (PHW) is a masterclass in modern, streamlined luxury. This specific model, often refer...
Hermès Vintage Black leather Collier de Chien ‘Médor’ waist belt
By Hermès
Located in Sheffield, GB
Superb Vintage Hermès Black leather ‘Collier de chien’ waist belt with decorative Gold square details on the front and tan leather lined interior. The belt is Stamped in gold letteri...
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 ...
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...
$14,279Sale Price|20% Off
Hermès 1992 Vintage Kelly 35 Navy Handbag with Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Capri, IT
1992 Hermes Kelly 35 in dark Blue navy with Gold hardware. Hardware and shoulder strap have been replaced by Hermes. The bag comes with dustbag and n...
Hermès La Folle Parade Silk Scarf Claire Fanjul White Orange 89 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "La Folle Parade" (the crazy parade) Designed by Claire Fanjul, first issue in 2021 Made in France Made of 100% twill silk Colorway 03: Whit...
Hermès Birkin 30 Green Bamboo Togo Leather Palladium Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
Superb and rare handbag Hermes Birkin 30 cm in green bamboo togo leather, palladium metal trim, lined handle in green bamboo togo leather allowing a hand carry. Flap closure. Inner l...
Hermes Plaid Avalon Baby Blanket – 135 x 95cm - Ecru Camel - New Care Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
laid 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 37...
Exceptional Hermès Vintage Silk Scarf Flora Marqueterie Francoise Heron 1960
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare opportunity to get this lovely authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "FLORA MARQUETERIE" Pattern: flowers and butterflies Designed by Françoise Héron in 1960 Made of 100% Silk Col...
Hermès "Faune et Flore du Texas" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Faune et Flore du Texas" scarf, is in the pink color way, and features a wildlife motif. Made from 100% silk and features hand rolled edges.
Hermès NIB Regate Scarf 90 Ring
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Regate Scarf 90 Ring is in rose gold-plated brass. Use the ring to try new ways to wear your scarf with this small accessory that glides right on. Suitable for 90 scarf f...
Hermes Kelly 25 Sellier Bleu du Nord Blue Epsom Leather Hardware Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare most wanted Hermes Kelly 25 Sellier Bleu du Nord Light Blue Epsom Leather. Complimented by Gold Hardware. As New 2019 D Stamp. Please keep in mind this is not a store fresh i...
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 cream silk TERRES PRECIEUSES 90 TWILL Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Terres Précieuses 90 scarf by Annie Faivre in cream twill silk (100%). Features a refined, fluid square silhouette showcasing an int...
Hermes Qu Importe le Flacon... by C Baschet Paris Small Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf Qu'importe le flacon... by Catherine Baschet featuring a green border, a Hermès signature. Circa 1997 In good vintage condition. M...
Hermes Birkin Sellier 25 Bag Framboise Veau Madame Leather Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Birkin Sellier 25 bag featured in vibrant Framboise. Hermes Framboise is a rich, saturated raspberry pink which is gorgeous for year round wear. The Herme...
Auth. Hermes Scarf - Complication Equestre - Marine Parme Blanc - New with Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Complication Equestre - Marine Parme Blanc - NWSTS - 2604131733 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Scarf 90 Silk Twill Name Design: Complication Equestre, Equestrian Complication Artist: Oct...
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 Customised Jige Elan PM Black
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
- Black / Blue - Box leather - Fold flap - Custom hand-painted rope and belts design - Signature “H” tab closure - Tonal stitching with contrast edging - Canvas interior - Stamp X Ci...
Hermès NIB "Jour De Casting" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Jour De Casting" silk scarf in Bleu Jean, Caban, and Marron. This 100% silk scarf features various dogs portraits. Comes with ribbon and original box.
Hermès Black Evercolor Leather Amazone Kelly 50cm Voyage Retourne
By Hermès
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Hermès Black Evercolor Leather Amazone Kelly 50cm Voyage Retourne Product Details Xupes Ref: CB1625 Brand: Hermès Model: Kelly 50cm Voyage Type: Travel Serial Number: W Age: 2024 Ac...
Hermès Bride De Cour Silk Scarf Pink 35'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "Bride de Cour" Pattern: horse bridle adorned with trimmings Designed by Françoise de la Perrière in 1969, this "Bride de Cour" R...
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 ...
Hermès Foulard Carre 90 Carpe Diem 1994 Joachim Metz Silk Twill Scarf Hermes
By Joachim Metz, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès 90cm square silk twill scarf, Carpe Diem design by Joachim Metz, first produced in 1994 and reissued in 1997, in vibrant shades of yellow, red, blue, and green, with yellow ed...
HERMES Natural tan leather 2023 FRENCHIE 50 Ankle Boots Shoes 37.5 fit 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Frenchie 50 ankle boots in Natural (tan) Heritage calfskin leather blend classic craftsmanship with a modern edge. Featuring rounded toes, block heels, and...
Gorgeous Hermès Silk Scarf La Vallee de Cristal Blue Ugo Bienvenu 88 cm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "La Vallée de Cristal" (the crystal valley) Designed by Ugo Bienvenu, 2023 collection Made in France Made of 100% twill silk Colorways: B...
Hermès Wedgwood Ledoux Vintage Silk Scarf 35'
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Scarf Print: "WEDGWOOD" Designed by Philippe LEDOUX in 1974 Made in France Made of 100% Silk Colorways: White, Blue, Yellow "HERMÈS - PARIS ©" Signe...
Hermès Birkin 30cm Bleu Atoll Epsom Leather w GH
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Birkin 30cm in Bleu Atoll Epsom, presented in a structured mid-size silhouette that balances everyday functionality with a distinctly refined, high-visibility presence, where ...
Hermès Birkin 30 Capucine Togo Leather Palladium Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
This Birkin is in Capucine togo leather with palladium hardware and has tonal stitching, front flap, two straps with center toggle closure, clochette with lock and two keys, and doub...
Hermes Kelly 32cm Crevette Clemence Leather w PH
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Kelly 32cm in Crevette Clémence with Palladium hardware takes on a noticeably softer character, with the color doing more of the work than the structure. At this size, the Kel...
Hermes Constance 18 Mini Black Noir Ostrich Leather Gold Hardware Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Absolutely Stunning Ultra Rare New Hermes Constance 18 Black Ostrich Leather Gold Hardware. 2021 Z Stamp. Prisitne Condition almost like New. Only worn a couple of times. Please...
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 Argent Metallic Chevre Chamkilight Sellier Mini Kelly II 20 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Argent Metallic Chevre Chamklight Sellier Mini Kelly II 20 PHW SKU: Z153270 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Officially...
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...
Hermès Kelly 32 Retournè Black togo leather
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Kelly 32 cm sellier is in black togo leather with tonal stitching and gold tone hardware. Date stamp R for 2014. Clochette, tirette, lock and 2 keys. Plastic on hardware,...
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...
Hermes Kelly Pochette Feu Orange Epsom Leather Palladium Hardware Rare Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare and Most Coveted Hermes Kelly Pochette Feu Orange. Epsom Leather Complimented by Palladium Hardware. Excellent Pristine Condition Plastic on All Hardware.
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...
Hermes Birkin 25 Bag Rose Mexico Crocodile Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermès Birkin 25 in Rose Mexico crocodile is a striking fusion of rarity and elegance. Rendered in one of Hermès’ most coveted jewel-toned pinks, this bag offers...
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 Elan Deep Blue Madame Leather Gold Hardware Clutch Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
As New Rare Most Coveted Hermes Kelly Elan Deep Blue Madame Leather Complimented by Gold Hardware. As new B stamp 2023. Additional Information: Condition: New without tags: This i...
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 ...
Hermes NIB Birkin 30 Gold Togo Palladium
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès 30cm Birkin bag in gold togo leather and palladium hardware. Plastic on hardware. Handle drop, 3"L. Includes clochette, tirette, lock, keys, felt, 2 dust bags and original box...
Hermès Triangle "Dies et Hore" Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès triangle silk scarf in the "Dies et Hore" design, featuring a celestial astrological chart with a sun at its center in various shades of pink, r...
$976Sale Price|42% Off
Auth. Hermes Shawl CS140 Bouquets Sellier - CS140 - Rose Vif Jaune Dor Noir NEW
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Bouquets Sellier – CS140 – Rose Vif Jaune Dor Noir – NWSTS – 2001211641 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Shawl 140 Cashmere Silk Name Design: Bouquets Sellier, Bouquets Sellier Artist: Pie...
Hermes Vue du Carrosse La Galere La Reale by Hugo Grygkar Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf « Vue du Carrosse La Galère La Réale » by Hugo Grygkar featuring a light green border and a Hermès signature. Circa 1992 designed in 1953 I...
Hermes, brown fringed cape
By Hermès
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Hermes, brown fringed cape. The item has a few holes, overall in good condition.
Hermès New Horse Head Money Clip
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
The Hermès Equestre bill clip features a palladium horse head, that allows for easy keeping of bills. Comes with ribbon, original dustcover and box. B...
Hermès Birkin 25cm Vert Comics Togo Leather tand Alligator Touch w PH
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Limited Hermès Birkin 25cm Touch model crafted in Vert Comics Togo leather with matte alligator detailing. The design pairs the structured grain of Togo calfskin with selectively pla...
Hermes 1980 Top Pull Twillaine FR38 Les clés Twillaine Silk wool Sweater US8
By Hermès, Cathy Latham
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès turtleneck sweater from the Twillaine series in ecru wool, front in silk twill with Les clefs motif by Cathy Latham (published in 1965 then 1980 - like this sweater and finall...
Hermes Constance 24cm Navy Blue Encre Toile Berline Swift Leather w PH
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Defined by contrast and restraint, this Hermès Constance 24cm pairs deep navy Encre tones with the tactile interplay of mixed materials, creating a composition that feels both classi...
Vintage Hermes Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
A stunning vintage Hermes ashtray with Pegasus detail in gold. The ashtray is in white porcelain with a gold border and decoration. Small damage to one corner that could be repaire...
Hermes Saddle Box Blue Recycled Kraft Paper Leather and Aluminum
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Saddle Box featured in Blue. Recycled Kraft cardboard stamped with the Hermes Sellier Clou de Selle. Top and bottom rim a...
Hermès Birkin 25cm Bougainvillea Matte Alligator w PH
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Electric in presence yet refined in execution, this Hermès Birkin 25cm in Bougainvillea matte alligator delivers a striking interplay of color, texture, and scale. The hue is unapolo...
Hermès Farming Bucket Orange Bag Epsom Leather
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Playful in concept yet executed with Hermès’ signature precision, the Farming Bucket bag offers a refreshing departure from the house’s more structured icons. The silhouette is relax...
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.