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.
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...
Hermes Birkin 25 Black & Rose Azalee Epsom 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! 1 of 1 Special Order Hermes Birkin 25 Special Order Black & Rose Azalee Epsom Leather complimented by...
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 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 70 scarf is modern and effortless, with its versatile, creative, and playful ways of wearing. Designed by...
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 Toile H Swift Ecru Beige De Weimar In-The-Loop 18 PHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Toile H Swift Ecru Beige De Weimar In-The-Loop 18 PHW SKU: 153160 Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Excellent Condition Comments: Item is in excellent co...
Hermès Set of 2 Giraffes and Camels Prints Silk Ties Africa Wild Animals
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Ties Prints: Giraffes and Camels Made in France Made of 100% silk 1. Giraffes print: - Beige background, yellow giraffes and grey palm trees. - Lined wit...
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 1970 Foulard Carre 90 Cheval Turc Pink Dyed Silk Twill Scarf Hermes
By Hermès, Christiane Vauzelles
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès square scarf, size 90, in silk twill, Turkish Horse motif by Christiane Vauzelles, first produced in 1970 and reissued in 1989, 1991, and 2002. The original motifs are in Herm...
HERMES ebony brown leather 2010 Blazer Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier blazer is crafted in ebony brown grained deerskin leather and tailored into a sharp, fitted silhouette. Designed with notched lapels,...
Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Blue Atoll Epsom Leather Gold Hardware Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Absolutely Stunning Rare and Most Coveted color. Hermes Kelly 28 Sellier Blue Atoll "Tiffany Blue" Epsom Leather complimented by Gold Hardware. Pristine Condition with Plastic on all...
Hermès New Rodeo Pegase Gold Black
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new in box limited edition rodeo Pegase small charm. Gold, black, nata. Comes with original box .
Hermès Rare Jungle Love Twilly BNIB
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new Jungle Love limited edition hearts twilly . Designed by Robert Dallet, iconic subject. Comes with original box.
HERMES red blue silk ORS BLEUS D'AFRIQUE 90 Twill Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Ors Bleus d'Afrique 90 scarf, designed by Zoé Pauwels, is crafted from luxurious red silk twill. It showcases a vibrant print featuring a variety of Africa...
HERMES black Maurice leather FLASH Backpack Bag
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Flash backpack in black Taurillon Maurice leather and palladium hardware with side zipper poket. Lined in off-white canvas with one ...
Hermès Birkin 30 Etoupe Togo Leather With Gold Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
This Birkin is in Etoupe togo leather with gold hardware, featuring contrast stitching, front flap with two straps, front toggle closure, clochette with lock and two keys, and double...
Hermes Special Order Birkin 30cm Pink Rose Lipstick Anemone Epsom w/Brushed Gold
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Hermès Special Order Birkin 30cm in Rose Lipstick and Anemone Epsom, designed as a custom two-tone configuration that brings together two highly saturated hues within a structured, m...
Hermes L Hiver by Philippe Ledoux Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf « L’Hiver » by Philippe Ledoux featuring a deep red border and an Hermès signature. 100% silk. Circa 1970 In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in. (90cm...
HERMES Potiron orange Clemence leather BIRKIN 30 Tote Bag w PHW
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Birkin 30 Bag in Potiron is crafted from durable and beautifully textured Clemence leather, showcasing a rich orange hue that highlights the bag’s iconic s...
Hermes "Marqueterie de Pierres d'Orient... Mini Porcelain Ashtray Organizer
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès Multicolor porcelain mini square organizer "Marqueterie de Pierres d'Orient et d'Occident" featuring a square shape, a under leather bottom with a Hermes signature. Circa 198...
2003 Hermes "Boogie Woogie" Silk Twill Carré Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Geneva, CH
Shades of blue and turquoise for this "Boogie Woogie" silk twill Carré scarf by Sophie Koechlin. Original Hermes box not included. Dimensions : approx. 90 x 90 cm (35.4 x 35.4 in...
Hermès Constance 18 Silver Argent Chevre Chamkilight Palladium Hardware New
By Hermès
Located in West Chester, PA
The Hermes Constance was first created back in 1959, and was constructed by in-house designer Catherine Chaillet who named the bag after her daughter. Since then, the Constance has b...
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...
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 ...
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 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...
Faune et Flore du Texas Forever Scarf 90 NEW 2025
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Faune et Flore du Texas forever scarf 90 cm Jaune Vif / Bleu Azur / Multicolore Last piece ,sold out in stores and this is our last piece . New with tags and box. Final sale
New Hermes Constance Elan Mauve Pale Epsom Leather Palladium Shoulder Bag, 2025
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
New 2025 Hermes Constance Elan Mauve Pale Epsom Leather complimented by Palladium Hardware. New, K Stamp 2025.
Hermès Two Mugs Chateau Épopée New In Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès brand new set of 2 mugs in porcelain. Unicorns and dragons design. Decorations are screen-printed and applied by hand. Comes with original box.
New in Box Hermès Palladium Scarf Ring
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès silver and palladium scarf ring. Comes with velvet duster and original box. Never used.
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 Blue Paradise Birkin 30 Bag
By Hermès
Located in Athens, GA
Hermes Blue Paradise Birkin 30 Bag. Excellent condition. Epsom leather. Gold hardware. Interior clean. Most wanted size and rare blue color. Includes clochette, lock, keys, and dust ...
$22,950
Hermes Gold Birkin 30 Bag
By Hermès
Located in Athens, GA
Hermes Gold Birkin 30 Bag. Classic Hermes tan color. Palladium silver hardware. Excellent condition. Interior clean. Great investment bag. Includes clochette, lock, keys, and dust ba...
Hermès Birkin 30 Sellier Epsom Bleu Royal Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Berlin, DE
Hermès Birkin sellier 30 in bleu royal and epsom leather with gold hardware. The bag is unworn and comes as full set including the original receipt. Stamp U (2022)
Hermès Grands Fonds Black Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes Grands Fonds silk scarf is in 100% silk with hand rolled edges,designed by Annie Faivre.
$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 Paris Tennis Racquet Paper Clip Money Clip Tennis Ball
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès Paper Clip Made in France Vintage item Made of metal (non precious), wood and plastic Colorways: silver-tone, brown "HERMÈS" engraved in fr...
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 Kelly Elan Etoupe Gray Madame Leather Gold Hardware Clutch Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
As New Rare Most Coveted Hermes Kelly Elan Etoupe Madame Leather Complimented by Gold Hardware. As new W stamp 2024.
HERMES Jean blue Clemence leather EVELYNE 33 Crossbody Bag Phw NO STRAP
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Evelyne III 33 crossbody bag is crafted in Blue Jean Clemence leather with contrasting white stitching and palladium hardware. It features the house’s sign...
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...
Hermes Geometrie Cretoise by Julia Abadie Silk Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes silk scarf « Géométrie crétoise » by Julia Abadie featuring a burgundy border and a Hermès signature. Circa 2012 In good vintage condition. Made in France. 35,4in. (90cm) X 35,4in. (90cm) We guarantee you will receive this iconic item as described and showed on photos. (please enlarge images to see all details on photos- All Hermes scarves...
Hermès Toile Canvas & Natural Peau Porc Leather Trim II 31cm Bag, 1992.
By Hermès
Located in Banner Elk, NC
Hermès Toile Canvas & Natural Peau Porc Leather Trim II 30cm Bag, 1992. Originally introduced in 1958, the Trim bag design pays homage to the brands long running equestrian roots dra...
HERMES Rouge Grenat suede ANJOU PLATFROM ANKLE STRAP Sandals Shoes 37
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Anjou platform sandals are crafted in Rouge Grenat red, burgundy, nude, and hot pink suede for a bold, multi-tonal finish. They feature peep toes, high blo...
Hermès Veste Caban FR34 Black Wool Whipcord Oversized Pea Coat UK6 US4 Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès oversized pea coat in thick black whipcord wool, notched collar with double-breasted button closure, Hermès logo buttons in blackened silver-tone metal and black leather, two ...
Hermès Birkin 30 Bleu Electrique Epsom Leather With Gold Hardware Handbag
By Hermès
Located in Aventura, FL
The Hermès Birkin 30 Bleu Electrique Epsom Leather Bag with Gold Tone Hardware is a bold expression of timeless luxury and collector appeal. Crafted from structured Epsom leather, th...
Hermès Vintage Rouge H Bleu Marine Courchevel Birkin 35 GHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Vintage Rouge H Bleu Marine Courchevel Birkin 35 GHW SKU: Z153923 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: The elusive Birkin bag from Hermès was designed a...
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 "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 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...
Hermès Mini Kelly Graphite Sellier Alligator Mississippiens K Stamp GHW
By Hermès
Located in Forest Park, GA
Hermès Mini Kelly Graphite Sellier Alligator Mississippiens K Stamp GHW The Hermès Mini Kelly Sellier in Graphite Alligator Mississippiensis captures an aura of refined strength and...
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...
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 pale blue silk FRONTAUX ET COCARDES 90 TWILL Scarf
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 'Frontaux Et Cocardes 90' scarf by Caty Latham in ivory silk twill (100%) with pale teal border and details in gold, yellow and gray. Has been worn with stains ...
Hermès Porcelain Ashtray Change Tray Horse Seahorse Mythology Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Seahorse This drawing inspired by Greek mythology represents the sea horse with a horse's head, 2 front legs, and a tail inspired...
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 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...
Hermès Sac Epaule Constance 1970s Black Precious Leather Shoulder Bag Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Constance model bag in black exotic leather (Porosus), interior in soft black leather with one patch pocket and one zipped pocket, clasp with the famous H motif in gold metal ...
$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...
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.