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 black grained leather CAP Hat 57
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier cap is crafted in black grained calfskin leather. It features a relaxed, slouchy crown paired with a structured visor for a chic, mod...
Hermès 2025 Chale Maxi Triangle Robe Legere Cashmere Silk Scarf Shawl Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Maxi Triangle scarf/shawl in cashmere (70%) and silk, featuring the Robe Légère print by Théo de Gueltzl in shades of orange on an ecru background, with hand-rolled orange edg...
Hermès Chapeau Bonnet T55 Ecru Wool Whipcord Miki Hat US6 7/8 or 21.5 in Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès hat or beanie in ecru and beige wool whipcord, with a wide brim and beige satin lining. Size FR 55, which is US 6 7/8 or 21.5 inches. The beanie is vintage but in very good co...
HERMES black cashmere FUNKY LEATHER TRIM FEDORA Hat 58
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Funky fedora hat in black cashmere (100%) featuring a tonal deerskin band and a subtly quilted brim that adds structure and modern edge. Finished with an acetat...
Hermes Paris Black Wool Leather Trim Hat Labeled Motsch Chapeaux Pour Hermes
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Paris Black felt wool leather trim hat labeled Motsch Chapeaux Pour Hermes Size 56 Small The stylish black felt wool hat is juxtaposed with brown leather border trim Makes ...
$2,042
Hermès yellow felt hat
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - (Made in France) Rabbit felt hat decorated with a saffron-color inside-out goat leather braid. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Head circumference: 55 cm SKU:CH...
Hermès Woman Felt Hat Burundy and Craie Leather Trim Clou Medor Size 57
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Hat Made in France Made of soft Felt Adorned by a leather trim and a "Clou Medor" in silver-tone Colorways: Felt is Beige-Grey...
HERMES Sienne chestnut brown grained leather Bucket Hat 57
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Bucket Hat in Sienne chestnut brown grained leather. Has been worn and shows some wear on the lining. Overall in very good cond...
1990's Motsch for Hermes 100% Black Cashmere Bucket Hat
By Hermès
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Motsch for Hermes 100% cashmere bucket hat from the 1990's. Hermes tan. leather zipper tag closes a vertical 3" access above the brim. This early version did not come with a leathe...
Hermes Silk Printed Cap
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Keep the sun at bay in this green Hermes cap featuring printed silk wrapped around the base. The style of this hat is so flattering and classy in a super round shape with a short visor. Match this to your favorite cool toned Chanel dress for a Sunday brunch or keep warm by pairing this with a black Fendi coat...
HERMES light grey wool 2010 FELT BOWLER Hat 57
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès bowler hat in light grey felt, finished with a dark grey grosgrain band and classic bow detail. A refined, heritage silhouette that adds polished Parisian elega...
Hermès two-tone bucket hat
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - (Made in France) Burgundy and white cotton bucket hat. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Head circumference: 55 cm SKU:CHP143
Hermes Signature Hunting Print Silk Twill Hat
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Classic Hermes signature scarf print silk twill printed hat. Self ties with gilt metal "D" rings. France 1970s. Circumference 20" with 1" elastic. 7" crown Excellent condition.
HERMES blue denim DAVIS H PRIMAVERA Baseball Cap Hat 57
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Davis H Primavera baseball cap in dark blue denim cotton (100%) is a refined take on a casual classic. Featuring intricate "H Primavera" embroidery, it’s f...
Hermes Wool Fisherman Hat
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Command your wardrobe with this Hermes Wool Fisherman hat. This wool silk blend hat is perfect for winter and fall festivities. It will offer you the warmth and comfort you need for the winter months without sacrificing you any style points. Pair with your favorite Chanel tweed or Ysl trench coat...
HERMES ivory paper EMMA Cap Hat 57
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Emma cap in off-white braided paper (with 19% polyester). Featuring and "H vagues" woven band on the interior and "H vagues" detail on the back. Lacquered Clou ...
Hermes Printed Silk Fur Cap
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Absolutely sensational Hermes Silk printed hat with a black fur lining. The printed silk is woven to create this gorgeous almost braided effect that is so elegant and regal. The black fur contrasting the silk is the finishing touch and creates such a unique juxtapose between the two fabrics! Match this to a gold Versace dress...
HERMES Eclipse PM Wild Singapore blue multicolor silk print hair barette clip
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Eclipse PM Wild Singapore blue multicolor silk print hair barette clip Reference: KYCG/A00140 Brand: Hermes Model: Eclipse PM Wild Singapore Material: Silk Color: Blue, Multic...
Hermès "Arabesques" Turban in Silk
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Hermès -Turban in silk illustrated with the theme "Arabesques" drawn by Henri D'Origny. Additional information: Dimensions: Head size: 51 cm Condition: Very good condition Seller R...
Hermes Off White Fedora With Brown Classic Strap
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This off-white Hermes hat with a classic brown strap is a simplistic and stylish look that shows elegance and class. Bringing out both feminine and mascul...
Hermes Silk Turban
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elevate all your looks with this amazing Hermés turban! This mid century scarf turned into a turban features a gorgeous black, white and yellow all over ...
HERMES Black And Gold Silk Hat
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
The hat is from Maison HERMES. It is like a scarf that you would have tied around your head. The hat is in very good condition. His head circumference is 57 centimeters. Presence of the Hermès Paris...
Hermes Chapeau Femme Ombline Coral Printed Silk Scarf Tresse Hat
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermès Chapeau Femme Ombline Coral Printed Silk Scarf Tresse Hat is a stunning fusion of style and sophistication, perfect for those sun-soaked days by the beach or casual outing...
Hermés "Le Soleil Royal" Silk Turban
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elevate all your looks with this amazing Hermés turban! Circa late 20th century, this scarf turned into a turban features a motif designed by Pierre Péro...
Hermes Silk Hat in Green and White
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Hermès -Silk ha tin shades of green and white. To note, the inner ribbon has traces. Additional information: Dimensions: Circumference: about 54 cm Condition: Good condition Selle...
HERMES CDC Cuff Swift Calfskin Etoupe Color Rose Gold T3
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Collier de Chien Swift CDC Cuff New never used but it does have minor flaws. We kept plastic on and it left some flaws on rose gold hardware .Please se...
Hermès New Egee Summer Hat
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès hat in Panama Brisa with fringed brim, "Rainbow" band and bow detail. Brushed palladium plated Clou de Selle detail.Size 58. Comes with original tag and shopping bag ( slightl...
Hermès Riley Panama Cap Naturel
By Hermès
Located in Indianapolis, IN
The Hermès Riley Panama Cap in Naturel exudes effortless sophistication and timeless summer style. Expertly woven from premium Panama straw, the cap showcases the maison’s impeccable...
Hermes Orange Bucket Hat
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Super fun Hermes orange bucket hat! In a gorgeous sun kissed orange/yellow color made from a lightweight polyester that drapes so effortlessly. The style is...
Hermés 1960s Passementerie Scarf Hat
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
For every Hermés lover! This bucket hat features the Passementerie Hermes Scarf designed by Francoise Heron in 1960 which honored the art of traditional t...
Hermes Brides de Gala Black Dakota Love Rabit Felt Hat
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This Hermes Brides de Gala Black Dakota Love Rabbit Felt Hat in size 57 is a true statement piece, exuding sophistication and playful elegance. Crafted from luxurious rabbit felt, th...
HERMES Riley Panama black straw small silver logo cotton lined cap hat 57cm
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Riley Panama black straw small silver logo cotton lined cap hat 57cm Reference: JACG/A00199 Brand: Hermes Collection: Riley Panama Material: Straw Color: Black, Silver Pattern...
$312Sale Price|20% Off
rare HERMES Bandeau Femme Mistinguette 100% silk blue yellow adjustable headband
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
rare HERMES Bandeau Femme Mistinguette 100% silk blue yellow adjustable headband Reference: VACN/A00019 Brand: Hermes Material: Silk Color: Blue, Yellow...
Hermes Shearling Lambskin Bucket Hat Black 59
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Black Shearling bucket hat. Lambskin with stamped abstract black on black design and Shearling inside. Timeless and c...
Off White Hermes Fedora With Brown Classic Strap
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This off white Hermes hat with a classic brown strap is a simplistic and stylish look that shows class. Bringing out both feminine and masculine undertone...
Unique HERMES Printed Silk Structured Safari Hat „Cavaliers d‘Or“
By Hermès
Located in Switzerland, CH
Beautiful HERMES printed silk twill structured safari hat Unique, rare piece Off white background with gold Greek Scythian art jewelry print throughout Fu...
Hermes Taupe Geo Rock & Crystal Print Silk Sun Hat
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermes Taupe Geo Rock & Crystal Print Silk Sun Hat exudes elegance and sophistication, making it a standout accessory for any fashion-forward individual. Featuring a taupe base a...
Hermes Clémence Leather Hat In Black Taurillon
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This Hermes Clémence Leather Hat In Black Taurillon is perfect for anyone to add a layer of coverage while still maintaining a sleek and stylish look....
Hermes Wool Fisherman Hat
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Command your wardrobe with this Hermes Wool Fisherman hat. This wool silk blend hat is perfect for winter and fall festivities. It will offer you the warmth and comfort you need for the winter months without sacrificing you any style points. Pair with your favorite Chanel tweed or Ysl trench coat...
Hermés 1970s Astrology Bucket Hat
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
For every Hermés lover! Circa 1970s, this bucket hat features the recognizable astrology motif designed by Francoise Faconnet and a band around the base of the crown. Created in 1963, the astrology motif was rereleased various times throughout the 1970s, 1980s and early 2000s, and “. . . is a fascinating interpretation of a 400-year-old celestial charting...
Hermès Open Cap with Fabric Visor
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Hermès -Open cap with fabric visor. Size S, the back of the cap has an elastic band. Additional information: Dimensions: Size S Condition: Very good condition Seller Ref number: CHP9
Hermes Clémence Leather Hat in Black Taurillon
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The fall season is arriving quickly. This Hermes Clémence Leather Hat In Black Taurillon is perfect for anyone to add a layer of coverage while still m...
$781
Hermes Silk Hat
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Hermès -Silk hat. To note, presence of stain on the inner lining. Additional information: Dimensions: Circumference: about 51 cm Condition: Good condition Seller Ref number: CHP68
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.