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 Pink Togo Leather Dogon Duo Bifold Wallet Clou de Selle
By Hermès
Located in Rome, Rome
Embrace the elegance of Hermes with this exquisite Dogon Duo Bifold Wallet, a masterpiece of French craftsmanship. This medium-sized unisex treasure is meticulously crafted from luxu...
Hermès Blue Lin Mini Evelyne Cross Bag
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Mini Evelyne Bag features jaune ambre Clemence leather, palladium hardware, a detachable flat strap, and an open top with a tuck closure and perforated “H” logo on the fr...
$8,792Sale Price|20% Off
Auth. Hermès Clutch Bag Pallonnier Black Porosus Crocodile Vintage Collector
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermès Pallonnier Clutch Bag – Black Porosus Crocodile – EXVC – 2410121651 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Pallonnier Clutch Bag Color: Black Material: Porosus Crocodile (Exterior), Calf ...
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 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...
Hermès "H" Reversible Etoupe Belt NIB
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "H" Belt features a large, iconic silver-tone "H" buckle and a reversible leather strap. Comes with original box and dust cover.
Hermès 2003 Herbag Cabas PM Tote in Brown Vibrato Leather & Khaki
By Hermès
Located in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Authentic, preowned Hermès Herbag Cabas PM tote from 2003, a highly sought-after and versatile classic from Hermès. Crafted in rich Ebene (deep brown) leather with gold-tone hardware...
Hermes Constance 24cm Rose Confetti Evergrain Leather w PH
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Constance in Rose Confetti Evergrain with Palladium hardware feels immediately playful yet controlled, where the clean, structured lines of the Constance silhouette keep the c...
Hermès Set of 7 Leather Charms Petit h
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely set of 7 Authentic Hermès Charms Shapes: Horse, Seahorse, Heart, Christmas Tree, Lion, Cupid, Marmot From the Petit h collection Made of leather Colorways: 1 Beige, 2 Blue...
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...
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...
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...
Hermes Kelly 25 Sellier Special Orde Etain Gray Pink Epsom Gold Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Rare most wanted Hermes Kelly 25 Special Order Sellier Etain Epsom Leather. Complimented by Pink interior, Pink Contrast Stitching & Brushed Gold Hardware. D stamp 2019 As New...
Hermès Pegasus Le Pégase Cheval Ailé Winged Horse in Cardboard to Hang
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Super Cute Authentic Hermès Pegasus Composed of 10 pieces of cardboard to assemble A string will allow to suspend it The assembly instructions are inside the packaging Colorways:...
$1,912Sale Price|36% Off
Auth. Hermès Bag Polochon - 30cm Canvas Natural/ Leather New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermes Polochon Bag 30cm - Canvas Natural/ Leather New - NWOCTS 2411091646 Brand: Hermès Type : Hermes Polochon Mademoiselle Base Size: 30cm Height: 1...
Hermès Black Epsom Sellier Kelly 28 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Black Epsom Sellier Kelly 28 PHW SKU: Z154249 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Officially renamed in 1977, the Hermès Kelly was originally called th...
Hermès "Le Tigre Royal" Cashmere Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Le Tigre Royal" Cashmere Scarf features a tiger in the center with orange and pink borders, comes with original box.
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 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 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...
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 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 25 Gris Tourterelle White Gray Leather Brushed Gold Top Handle Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Absolutely Stunning and One The Most Coveted and Difficult to get Hermes Combos! As New Hermes Birkin 25 Special Order Gris Tourterelle & White Leather complimented by Brushed Go...
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.
Hermes Wicker Bottle Basket &Crystal Glasses in Hand-Braided w Taurillon Leather
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Basketwork, or the art of weaving plant fibers, is an ancestral skill found in all four corners of the globe. Complex woven designs give a rhythmic pattern to archetypal forms. I In ...
Hermès Kelly 28cm Bleu Paon Sellier Epsom w/Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Kelly 28cm Sellier in Bleu Paon Epsom, featuring the structured, architectural silhouette the Kelly is known for, with a medium scale that sits between compact and everyday ca...
Hermès Ceinture A composer T80 Tuareg Silver Buckle New Leather Belt US32 Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès A series belt composed of a reversible leather link in black box leather and almost black brown grained leather, dated 2007, and an H or Constance buckle in solid silver decor...
HERMES Etoupe taupe Clemence leather EVELYNE 33 Crossbody Bag Phw
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Evelyne III 33 crossbody bag is crafted in Etoupe taupe Clemence leather with contrasting white stitching and palladium hardware. It features the house’s s...
Lovely Hermès Set of 4 Silk Ties Animals Print
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Cute Authentic Hermès Set of 4 Ties Prints from left to right: - 7997 EA: owls in a decor of stars and moon / Colorways: Orange, Brown, White, Yellow. Plain orange at back - 7425 ...
Hermès Silver Bottle Opener Ravinet d'Enfert Horse
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Bottle Openerand Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Bottle Opener Horse head shaped Designed by Ravinet d'Enfert for Hermès Made in France Vintage item Answers sil...
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 Blue Gold Paris Knights Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Paris Knights Ashtray is made from 100% porcelain and features a knights motif, with gold tone border and a black suede bottom.
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 Vintage Cashmere Leather Fringe Black Shawl
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
1990s Hermès black cashmere-and-wool shawl with extra-long leather fringe. Minor wear.
Hermès 2009 Carré 45 Gavroche Sulfures Silk Twill Carre 45 Scarf Hermes
By Cathy Latham, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès 45cm square gavroche scarf in silk twill, featuring the Sulfures & Presse Papier print by Cathy Latham, first released in 1979 and reissued in 2002 (Détails version) and again...
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...
Hermès Bolide 27cm Turquoise Chevre Mysore Leather w PH
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Bolide 27cm in Turquoise Chevre Mysore with Palladium hardware offers a more dynamic, color-forward take on the house’s classic zip silhouette, where the compact 27cm size kee...
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 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 Orange Mecano Fauve Toile & Hunter leather HERBAG ZIP 31 RETROUNE Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Herbag Zip 31 Retourné bag is crafted in Orange Mécano Toile Militaire canvas with Fauve Vache Hunter leat...
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...
$14,352Sale 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 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...
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...
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 "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...
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,...
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...
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 ...
$1,280Sale Price|20% Off
Auth. Hermes Shawl CS140 Bouquets Sellier Blanc Rose Indien Turquoise New S/Tag
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Bouquets Sellier – CS140 – Blanc Rose Indien Turquoise – NWSTS – 2001281329 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Shawl 140 Cashmere/Silk Artist: Pierre Marie Size: 140 cm x 140 cm / 55 in x 55...
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...
Hermès Constance 18 Mini Rose Scheherazade Shiny Alligator Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Absolutely Stunning Ultra Rare Hermes Constance 18 Rose Scheherazade Alligator Leather Palladium Hardware. 2022 U Stamp. Excellent Condition. Only worn a few times of times. Ple...
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 Silk Kachinas Blue Yellow Scarf by Kermit Oliver
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès rare Kachinas teal, blue and yellow scarf designed by artist Kermit Oliver. Signature print from this artist. beautiful silk twill with hand rolled edges. Excellent condition....
$18,950
Hermes Gold Kelly 32 Bag
By Hermès
Located in Athens, GA
Hermes Gold Kelly 32 Bag. Good condition. Gold tan color with gold hardware. Epsom sellier leather. Beautiful bag. Interior clean. Includes clochette, lock, keys, and dust bag. Guara...
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...
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 Padlock Bag Clutch Purse Doblis Leather Purple and Golden Hdw RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely and Rare Authentic Hermès Clutch Called "Padlock" due to the Padlock Shaped clasp Very rare ! A-line shape of the purse and asymmetrical cut of the flap for a chic and eleg...
1991, Hermes Art Des Steppes by Annie Faivre Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes blue silk scarf "Art des Steppes" by Annie Faivre featuring a blue border and a Hermès signature. Circa 1991 In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in. (90cm) X 35,...
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.