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 2006 Veste Cardigan FR38 Jean Paul Gaultier Maxi Jacket Cardigan UK10 US6
By Hermès, Jean Paul Gaultier
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès jacket from the Fall/Winter 2006 collection by Jean Paul Gaultier; a long cardigan in a thick, ecru wool knit featuring a Nordic jacquard pattern in shades of brown, gray, and...
Burgundy silk Robe with striped pattern HERMES
By Hermès
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Burgundy silk Robe with striped pattern.Belt and belt loop. Pocket on both side + one on the bust. SIZE XL
Exceptional Hermès Spats Mini Chaps Brown Suede Leather
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Spats Made of suede leather and silver-tone buckles Inside is lined with brown leather Colorway: Brown Please note: The color variations com...
Hermès Kelly Skirt by Jean Paul Gaultier, Fall/Winter 2004–2005.
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Kelly Skirt by Jean Paul Gaultier, Fall/Winter 2004–2005. 100% virgin wool, with lambskin leather trim and metal buckles. Size 38 FR (Medium) Measurements: Waist: 38 cm / 1...
HERMES mauve purple suede 2022 Slingback Flats Shoes 38.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès 2022 suede slingback ballet flat in mauve is a refined expression of understated elegance and modern femininity. Crafted from soft suede in a sophisticated...
HERMÈS silk blue on white "les pivoines" pants
By Hermès
Located in Rubiera, RE
HERMÈS Silk pants "Les pivoines" (the peonies) blue and white high-waisted pants Two side pockets and two back pockets White double stitching Bronze metal button with logo Size F...
HERMES Bleu Claire blue ORAN DENIM Slide Sandals Shoes 37.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Oran sandals in Bleu Claire denim (100%). These luxury Hermès sandals reinterpret the Maison's iconic warm-weather silhouette in casual yet refined Bleu Claire ...
HERMES black leather CHYPRE Slide Sandals Shoes 37.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Chypre sandals in smooth black calfskin leather, defined by the house’s iconic minimalist silhouette and bold H-cut straps. Designed with a rounded toe and ergo...
$1,775Sale Price|28% Off
Hermes Men's Buttery Soft Black Lambskin Leather Unisex Coat Size 54 c 21st c
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Men's buttery soft black lambskin leather unisex coat French Size 54 The luxurious coat is constructed with smooth very soft black lambskin leather Lined in black Bemberg ra...
HERMES Gold camel brown leather ORAN Slide Sandals Shoes 41.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Oran slide sandals in Gold (camel) Box calfskin leather epitomize timeless elegance and effortless style. Featuring the iconic H cut-out, these sleek slide...
Hermès by Martin Margiela Wool & Silk Two-Piece Set (1997–2003)
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès by Martin Margiela Wool & Silk Two-Piece Set (1997–2003) Made in France Color: Navy blue Both the trousers and the top are size FR 40 (Large). Please note that the trousers ...
Hermès Spring 2023 Ring Detail Beige Goatskin Coat
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra chic Hermes leather coat from the Spring 2023 collection. Bought for £16000 and worn once. Made from super malleable rich beige goat leather...
HERMES black leather MEDOR LOAFER Pumps Shoes 38.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Medor loafer-style platform pumps are crafted from black brushed leather, offering a refined blend of sophistication and modern edge. The design features ...
$1,402Sale Price|20% Off
HERMÈS - Vintage Cotton Bathrobe "Les Leopards" by Christiane Vauzelles
By Hermès, Christiane Vauzelles
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Rare soft cotton terry bathrobe the motif and the iconic one of the Carrè "Les Leopards" designed by master Christiane Vauzelles - This ...
HERMES black leather 2010 Blazer Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier blazer is crafted in black grained deerskin leather and tailored into a sharp, fitted silhouette. Designed with notched lapels, a che...
Vintage HERMES Paris Mink Jacket with printed Scarf Silk Lining
By Hermès
Located in Amsterdam, NL
This vintage unique jacket 1980's is made of brown mink with silk Hermes lining Rare to find Look at our storefront for more luxurious vintage items. Details: Lined with Hermes sil...
Hermès Black Cashmere & Leather Fringe Shawl -'00s
By Hermès
Located in Milano, Lombardia
A sophisticated Hermès shawl, expertly crafted from a luxurious black wool and cashmere blend. This elegant piece features an asymmetric triangular silhouette designed to drape grace...
HERMES black leather FAUBOURG Loafers Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Faubourg loafers are crafted in black glazed calfskin, offering a sleek balance of elegance and versatility. Designed with a notched sole for a modern edg...
Hermès Women's Spring 2021 Black Leather Zip Front Coat, Size FR38
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Luxest Hermes leather coat from the Spring 2021 collection - Look 15 on the runway. Bought for £14000 and worn once. Made from incredibly soft and...
Hermes Rouge Cornaline Double Faced Cashmere Jacket
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, superbly coloured Hermes double faced cashmere jacket. New with tags. Made from the highest quality double faced cashmere in the richest orangey red - official colours i...
$5,882Sale Price|25% Off
Hermes Equestrian Deerskin Leather Jacket Cerulean Blue
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, highest quality Hermes Equestrian leather jacket. Unworn. Made from the highest quality, super malleable cerulean blue deerskin with Her...
Hermès 1970's White Linen Blazer
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This incredible late 1970s Hermès blazer is the epitome of quiet luxury. Crafted from bright white linen, this minimalist masterpiece features an angular collar, arched decorative we...
Hermès 1990s Veste Soie Insectes FR38 Ecru Silk Twill Jacket UK10 US8 Hermes
By Hugo Grygkar, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès long jacket circa 1990 in ecru silk twill with the Insectes print by Hugo Grygkar & La Torre (first produced in 1958), notched collar fastened with three mother-of-pearl butto...
HERMES black leather TIPOLI Wedge Espadrille Sandals Shoes 41 fit 40
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Tipoli espadrille wedge sandals in smooth Noir goatskin with iconic Palladium plated buckle, wrap-around ankle strap and natural rope heel. Brand new. Measure...
HERMES Jumping So Black calfskin leather matte hardware tall riding boots EU38
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Jumping So Black calfskin leather matte hardware tall riding boots EU38 Reference: MELK/A00367 Brand: Hermes Model: Jumping Boot (Botte Jumping) Collection: "So Black" Hardwar...
Hermès New Oasis Sandal Epsom Etoupe 37
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Oasis Sandal Brown with a natural leather sole and an etoupe leather heel, features a hazelnut goatskin insole and lining. Italian number 37. Come with double dustcover ...
HERMES Rose Bubinga nude leather ANCORA Loafers Flats Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Ancona loafers in Rose Bubinga (dusty rose) supple calfskin leather blend refined craftsmanship with subtle signature detailing. Designed with rounded toe...
HERME 2010 Runway black leather brown fur lined buckled block heeled boots EU39
By Hermès, Jean Paul Gaultier
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERME 2010 Runway black leather brown fur lined buckled block heeled boots EU39 Reference: VACN/A00162 Brand: Hermes Designer: Jean Paul Gaultier Model: Fall/Winter 2010 Material: L...
HERMÈS - 1990s Vintage Unisex Cotton Bathrobe with Sun Embroidery
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - An extraordinary bathrobe made of soft cotton terry cloth in a beautiful orange base color, featuring stunning embroidery on the back de...
Hermes 1970s Dress with Lace up Back
By Hermès
Located in Water Mill, NY
A fabulous black polished cotton dress from Hermes. It is sleeveless with a crew neckline, button front closure to the waist, hip pockets, and...
Hermès Women's Contemporary Bomber Jacket Black Cotton Size FR38/UK10
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Effortlessly cool Hermes Bomber Jacket in 02 Noir. Made from finely textured black Point De Milan cotton with a striking black and with H motif j...
Hermès by Martin Margiela 100% Cashmere Trousers, FR38, made in france
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès by Martin Margiela Cashmere Trousers Hermès trousers designed during Martin Margiela’s tenure as Artistic Director of the house’s women’s ready-to-wear collections from 1997 ...
Hermès Large Embroidered Terry Towel Navy theme
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Towel Embroidered with a marine-themed motif, HERMES in yellow cotton thread in semaphore font, sailor's beret seen from above with its red pompom in the cente...
Hermes Lady Vest - 5 Buttons Charreada Red Violet - Excellent Condition Rare!
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Lady Vest Hermes 5 Buttons Charreada Red Violet - 2502241942 Brand: Hermès Item Type: Vest Name Design: Charreada, Mexican Rodeo Artist: Jean de Fougerolle External Material Back: 1...
Hermès Women's Contemporary Avantage Sneakers White Leather Size 38.5
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Luxe Hermes Avantage sneakers. Unworn with box and 2 x dustbags. Made from white leather with coloured H motif, think laces and chunky soles. Size 38.5/UK5.5. Measure approx - 10.25”...
Hermès Mosaic Fishes Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Très rare Serviette / Drap / Tapis de plage Hermès "Mosaic Fishes" 100% Coton. Parfait état Dimensions : H: 90 x L: 150 cm.
Hermès Women's Quicker Sneakers White Calf Leather Hot Pink Suede Trim
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Luxe Hermes Quicker sneakers. Unworn with 2 x dustbags. Made from white calf leather with hot pink suede trims, quilted H motifs, thick laces and white soles. Size 38.5/UK5.5. Measur...
1990s Hermès by Martin Margiela linen midi skirt
By Hermès
Located in Milano, Lombardia
1990s Hermès by Martin Margiela linen midi skirt This 1990s Hermès midi skirt from Martin Margiela’s tenure is crafted from natural-toned linen. Its high-waisted, elongated silhouet...
HERMES Vintage Minéraux Silk Shirt Blouse
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES Paris vintage Minéraux silk shirt blouse featuring a refined composition of multicolored gemstones and mineral motifs on an off-white background. This silk shirt captures the...
Hermes Camel Cashmere Jumper
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes 1980s camel cashmere jumper featuring a horse-head motif, a round turtle neck, long sleeves. Composition: 100% cashmere Label size 38fr/US6 /UK10 In good vintage condition. Ma...
Hermès Leopards Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Rare Vintage Hermès "Leopards" Beach Towel in 100% Terry Cotton. Dimensions : 35.4" x 59.1"
Hermes Voiliers Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Rare Hermes "Voiliers" Towel in 100% Terry Cotton Dimensions : 35.4" x 59.1" Condition : Pristine
Hermes 1990s Biblotheque by Hugo Grygkar Green Silk 90s Bodysuit
By Hermès
Located in San Diego, CA
Rare and collectible vintage F/W 96 HERMÈS silk jersey bodysuit ! Artist Hugo Grygkar designed this print, naming it “Biblotheque” Vibrant hues of ...
HERMES dark brown suede LOCK Knee High Boots Shoes 38.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès knee-high almond-toe boots in brown suede leather embellished with Palladium lock depeches. Open with a zipper on the inside. Have been worn and are in excelle...
HERMES Calya Slip On Leather Clogs - Black Size 39. With box. VG Condition
By Hermès
Located in Glasgow, GB
Description: Calya slip on clogs by Hermes. Smooth black leather. Rounded toe. "H" cutout detail on upper. Palladium silver plated studs. Lined in goat leather. Black beech wooden pl...
Hermès Vintage Jean Paul Gaultier Herringbone Blazer Jacket 2004 Runway Piece
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
A tailored jacket by Hermès, designed under the creative direction of Jean Paul Gaultier and made in France from a blend of lambswool and cashmere with a subtle brown and black herri...
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 pink leather ORAN LIZARD Slides Sandals Shoes 40 fit 39
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Oran slide sandals in vibrant pink lizard leather, showcasing the house’s instantly recognizable minimalist elegance. Defined by the iconic “H” cut-out upper an...
Black and white striped rayon trouser HERMES
By Hermès
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Black and white striped rayon trouser . Branded button and buttonhole closure on the left side. Elastic waist band on the back. SIZE 38:M
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 Double XL Bali Fishes Terry Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Rare Vintage Hermès Double XL Twin "Bali Fishes" Beach Towel in 100% Terry Cotton A unique piece for collectors in the "California Size" Dimensions : 57.09" x 74.80" approx. 150 x 1...
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 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...
$944Sale Price|20% Off
HERMÈS - Vintage Cotton Printed Dress with Panel Skirt and Bone Buttons
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - A dress made of ultra-lightweight printed cotton, featuring a skirt with a wide belt and a top with long strips of fabric that start at...
Hermès by Martin Margiela Vintage Circa (1997-2003) Wool Dress
By Hermès, Maison Martin Margiela
Located in Antwerpen, Vlaams Gewest
Hermès by Martin Margiela Vintage Circa (1997-2003) Wool Dress Martin Margiela served as Hermès’ creative director for women’s ready-to-wear, shaping 12 iconic and unforgettable coll...
HERMES Mandarine orange leather 2019 BIKER Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès biker jacket in Mandarine orange Chèvre (goat skin) leather. Features a sleek, fitted silhouette with a subtly flared hem and clean minimalist lines. Designed w...
$875Sale Price|25% Off
Hermes Flocon Boots Shearling Lined Hiking White Leather Boxed
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe Hermes Flocon boots. Worn once indoors - come with original box. Made from bright white leather with camel shearling trims, white laces and platform soles. Size 38.5/UK5.5...
HERMES 2014 leather hardware bust detail navy viscose strapless gown dress FR36
By LEMAIRE, Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES 2014 leather hardware bust detail navy viscose strapless gown dress FR36 S Reference: CYTY/A00106 Brand: Hermes Designer: Christophe Lemaire Collection: 2014 Material: Viscose...
Hermes Sport Silk Twill Print Dress
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Sport Ivory silk twill afternoon dress printed with various insects and foliage, within an equestrian unfurling border of gold and blue decorative straps. Self belt signed Her...
Hermès dress 'Jungle Love' by Robert Dallet circa 2000
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - A ready-to-wear Collection circa 2000 with the "Jungle Love" theme designed by Robert Dallet. Kaftan-style dress made of silk and thin cashmere knitting, with a flowing str...
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.