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 Silver Tone Cornucopia Metal Matchbox
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes Silver-tone metal matchbox featuring a “Cornucopia design” (Horn of abundance) and a leather box that fits into the metal sleeve, engraved Hermes Paris on the bottom. Circa 19...
Caty Latham Vintage HERMÈS Silk Cushion 'Neige d'Antan' 43x43 cm
By Hermès, Caty Latham
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Rare silk pillow with carré pattern "Neige d' Antan" design by master Caty Latham ( 43x43 ) excellent condition.
Hermes Favori du Faubourg Blanket Hand Embroidered Beaded Cashmere New w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a limited edition extraordinary Hermes Favori du Faubourg Blanket features hand embroidered Miyuki baguette glass beads and viscose and cotton threads. An exception...
Hermès Couverture Agenda Bloc Note Semainier Golden Leather Agenda Cover Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Weekly Planner cover in grained leather, gold or camel color, with saddle stitching. The interior features a pair of silver-tone metal clips to hold the notebook, planner, add...
Hermès Porcelain Gold Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Deer Print Xavier de Poret
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Deer Designed by Xavier de Poret LP crest on both sides, for Laurent Perrier champagnes. Perfect gift for someone with the initi...
Hermes Mosaique au 24 Van Quatre Gold Porcelain Bowl Set of 2
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermes Mosaique au 24 Van Quatre Gold Porcelain Bowl Set of 2 exemplifies exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious design. Featuring a vibrant mosaic print in shades of yellow, oran...
Hermes H Casaque Blanket Carbone / Ecru Limited Edition
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a limited edition Hermes H Casaque blanket featured in Ecru and Carbone. A modern expression of the classic H blanket inspired by the horse racing world. Originall...
Hermès Change Tray or Small Dish The Air of Paris 2006 in Porcelain
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Change Tray " L'air de Paris 2006 ! " (The air of Paris 2006) A very nice gift to commemorate a memory that took place that year Can be used as small dish ...
Hermès Gold Porcelain Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Traditional Medieval Outfit
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: traditional medieval outfit, adorned with hunting horns Made in France Made of printed porcelain, egdes and notches hand paint...
Hermès Gold and Silver Money Clip Paper Clip Gaetan de Percin Rare
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Clip Can be used as money clip, paper clip, bookmark Designed by Gaetan de Percin (hallmark at back) Body made of sterling silver (Ag 925) and...
Hermès Sellier Limited Edition Jumping Bridle Black Leather Red Stitch Reins
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers this Hermès limited edition Sellier jumping bridle is crafted in black leather with distinctive red topstitching and includes matching reins. The contrast stitching...
Exceptional Hermès Vintage Umbrella Zebras Print 1988 Exotic Year RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Lovely Authentic Hermès Umbrella Print: Zebras Vintage Item from 1988, "Exotic Year" Made in France Made of 100% cotton water repellent cl...
Hermès “Au Coeur de l‘Eté“ Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
The Hermès beach towel in terry cloth with "Au Coeur de l 'Ete" print was designed by Jin Kwon and made from 100% cotton. Features a blue, coral, orange back and a zebra print on the...
Hermès Saint Christopher Yellow Gold Key Holder Charm
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Key Ring Represents Saint Christopher, a saint of Christianity. Christophe means "the one who carries the Christ". He is considered the "Patron Saint" o...
Hermés Rare 1950s Velvet Riding Helmet & Spurs
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Say hello to this amazing Hermés riding helmet and spurs! Circa 1950s, this extremely rare riding helmet is crafted from soft black velvet and fea...
Hermes Plaid Avalon Cabriole Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Rose Airelles - New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermes Plaid Avalon Cabriole Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Rose Airelles – NWCTS - 2604231648 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Avalon Baby Blanket / Plaid Artist: Hermès Studio. Cabriole design, where applicable, is by Alice Charbin. Size: 135 x 95 cm / 53.1 x 37.4 inches Color: Rose Airelles (Lingonberry Pink), Blanc (White) Fabric: 90% Merino Wool - 10% Cashmere Approx. Issue Date: Avalon design originally created in 1988; Rose Airelles / Blanc baby blanket version is a modern 2020s issue. Condition: New With Care Tag, Never Worn, Without Box (S Item) Country of Origin: Made In Great Britain Story about the Design: Avalon is one of the most recognisable Hermès home designs. Inspired by traditional horse blankets and heraldic coats of arms, the design presents the iconic Hermès H motif in a timeless graphic style. The name Avalon refers to the mythical British island associated with Excalibur. In the baby range, the classic Avalon look is softened through delicate pastel colours, making it especially suited to a nursery or luxury baby gift. Artist's Story: The Avalon design is credited to Hermès Studio. If the Cabriole wording is retained in the listing, Hermès identifies the Cabriole design story as the work of Alice Charbin, a French illustrator known for her poetic and whimsical drawings for Hermès. Her Cabriole world celebrates childhood, movement, imagination, and the joyful relationship between a child and a faithful companion. Craftsmanship Note: This Hermès baby blanket...
Rare Hermès Ashtray Change Tray Horse Shaped Ravinet d'Enfert
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Lovely Authentic Hermès Tray In shape of a horse head Can be used as change tray, ashtray, small plate, or just to decorate Made in France Tr...
Hermès Beach Towel With Pelican Design
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Blue, yellow and multicolor cotton Hermès beach towel with pelican motif at surface and brand label. 100% cotton.
Hermes Bleus d'Ailleurs Round Tart Platter
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Round Tart Platter featured in beloved Bleus d'Allieurs. A modern geometirc design paying hommage to ancient pottery and the countless sea voyages of trad...
Hermes BNIB Pegase Porcelain Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes white,blue,red and orange porcelain catchalls with Pegase design. New with original box.
Hermès New In Box Set Of 3 Puzzles
By Alice Shirley, Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès brand new in box set of 3 "Under the waves" puzzles. Designed by Alice Shirley, collectible author.
Hermès Paris Centerpiece Vase Ceramic Duck Shaped From La Mare aux Canards
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare Authentic Hermès Centerpiece Vase Duck shaped, the perfect gift for a duck lover ! From the Hermès design "La Mare aux Canards" (The Duck Pond), drawn by Daphné Duch...
Hermes Mosaique 24 Gold Rice Bowl Set
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Looking to spice up your kitchen sets? Hermes has you covered with these gorgeous bowl sets! Hermes prooves even your kitchen cabinets could use a splash Hermes elegance with these p...
Hermes Multicolour Large “La Siesta” Porcelain Organizer
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès Multicolour Large “La Siesta” porcelain organizer from Hermes Pre-Owned featuring a rectangular shape, a floral motive, a Hermes signature. Delivered in original box Circa 200...
Hermès Set of 2 Golf Ball Silvery Metal Door Knobs
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès Golf Balls Can be used as decorative objects, but the hole at back also allows them to be used as drawer handles (delivered with the screws see...
Auth. Hermes Plaid Avalon Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Genévrier Blanc - New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Plaid Avalon Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Genévrier Blanc – NWCTS – 2510281928 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Avalon Baby Blanket / Plaid Artist: Not applicable / no specific artist credite...
Hermès Feathers Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Feathers Made in France Vintage Item Made of porcelain, edges and notches hand- painted with fine gold Colorways: white, blue, green ...
Hermes Avalon Vibration Pillow Naturel Set of Two Limited Edition
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a set of two (2) Hermes small model limited edition Avalon Vibration pillows with the iconic H featured in Taupe and Ecru. The rem...
Hermès Golf Ball Pen Holder Paperweight Rare
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès Golf Ball Pen Holder Can be used as pen holder thanks to its hole, paperweigt, decorative object Made of silvery me...
Hermès Vintage Vide Poche Cendrier Lion Feline Ashtray Trinket Bowl Hermes NIB
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès porcelain ashtray or trinket tray, lion or feline motif, in beige and gold tones, lined with beige suede, Made in France, signed Hermès. Width 20 cm x Length 16 cm x Height 3....
Hermes Mosaique au 24 Van Quatre Gold Porcelain Teapot
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Hermes Mosaique au 24 Van Quatre Gold Porcelain Teapot is a stunning example of luxurious craftsmanship and artistic design. Featuring a vibrant mosaic print in shades of yellow,...
Hermès Set of 3 Small Ashtrays Wild Animals Africa Print Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Authentic Set of 3 Adorable Hermès Mini Ashtrays Prints: 2 monkeys, 1 bear, 1 tiger in a bamboo setting Theme: Africa, Wild Animals, Jungle, Savannah Made in France Made of print...
Hermès 2 Mini Guepards Ashtrays Leopard
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Set of Mini Ashtrays are part of "Les Leopards" collection and can be used as change trays or organizers. Suede protection on bottom of trays. Comes with original box.
Exceptional Hermès Set of 2 glass stemmed porcelain cups Saint Louis Mesclun
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional production from the Hermès Petit H workshops of 2 stemmed cups Mix between porcelain and glass from Saint Louis (created in 1586, Saint Louis became the Verrerie Royale ...
Hermès Paris Belt Shaped Money Clip Silver
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Clip Can be used for money, paper, anything you need to clip In shape of a belt (can not be opened) Vintage Item Made of silver 800 Colorway: silvery "HER...
Hermes Jumbo Playing Cards Set Les 4 Mondes GM New w/Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Guaranteed authentic rareHermes Jumbo 52-piece playing card set. Cards are beautifully detailed with Les 4 Mondes design on the rear. Trim color is ...
HERMES Vintage Stirrup Silver Money Clip
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES vintage silver money clip featuring a stirrup. Embossed HERMES. French silver crab hallmark. Indicative measurements : max. length approx. 5...
Hermès Toucans Porcelain Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Cendrier Hermès Toucans en porcelaine Dessous Chèvre velours 16 x 16 cm Parfait état
Hermès Gazelles Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Africa Kenya Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Gazelles / Antelopes We found a similar print on the "KENYA scarf, designed by Robert Dallet and issued in 1988, "year of exotici...
Hermès Ornament Adornment for Skirt in Brown Leather and Golden Medor Studs RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Gorgeous Authentic Hermès Ornament This piece of leather is designed to adorn the Hermès skirts and belts designed for this purpose (not in...
Hermès Oran Nano Bag Charm Grigri Black Leather
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Super Cute Authentic Hermès "Oran Nano" Charm In shape of an Hermès Oran Sandal, in nano version Made in France Made of Hunter and Butler Leather Colorways: Noir / Naturel Sable ...
Exceptional Hermès Keychain Saint Christopher Patron Saint of Travelers Silver
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Keychain Represents Saint Christopher, a saint of Christianity. Christophe means "the one who carries the Christ". He is considered the "Patron Saint" of travelers. Can be used as charm or key holder Made of Silver (80% - Crab hallmark) Probably Vintage Item Colorway: Silver-tone "HERMES" engraved at back Hallmarks on the chain Measurements: - Total Length: 16 cm (6,3 inches) - The medal part is 2,2 Long 4,5 High (0,87 / 1,77 inches) Condition: Excellent. Original shape, no missing part. Clean and shiny. Closure system perfectly works. May show micro scratches not seen unless close inspection. Will come in its original vintage Hermès case...
Tire bouchon Hermès Vintage circa 1970/80
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Maison : Hermès Type : Tire-bouchon Époque : Années 1970-1980 Matière : Métal argenté Décor : Deux têtes de chevaux Particularité : Pommeau ergonomique et agréable en main État : Exc...
Hermes R.M.S. Passport Holder Gold Evercolor Calfskin
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes R.M.S. Passport Holder featured in Gold. In beautiful Evercolor calfskin leather - a small, satiny grain with suppleness. Snap closure with lacquered pall...
Hermes Samarcande Chess Set Sycamore Mahogany Crocodile Handles New w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Samarcande Chess Set. Composed of Natural Sycamore and Mahogany wood. Beautiful contrasting wood pieces. Gorgeous Bleu El...
Hermes Mosaique Au 24 Dessert Plate Gold New w/Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a gold Hermes Mosaique Au 24 Dessert Plate featured in porcelain. The mosaic motif reflects the mosaic floor at the entrance of the 24 Faubourg St. Honore flagship ...
Hermès Porcelain Horse Ashtray White Gold
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès porcelain ashtray with horse design. Made in France. Comes with original box.
Hermès Belt Ornament for skirts Mors et Filets Gold Leather Ghw Rare
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Ornament This piece of leather is made to adorn the Hermès skirts and belts designed for this purpose (not included in sale) Th...
Hermes Saint-Louis Chess Game Jeu Flannel-Grey with Clear Crystal and Wood
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes limited edition Saint-Louis Chess Game featured in Jeu Flannel-Grey with Clear Crystal and Wood. Each chess piece is beautifully inspired by Saint-Louis' classic decanter stoppers. The chess game...
Rare Hermès Set of 2 Napkin Rings Stirrups Shaped in Silver
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Napkin Rings Set of 2 Each one in shape of 3 stirrups Vintage items No hallmark but answers to the silver test C...
Hermès Window Shop Display Decoration Kelly Bag and Horses in Cardstock RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Decoration Theme: the "Kelly" Bag On the left: Kelly bags / On the right: a woman, locks and a car Made of cardstock,...
Hermes Declick Dice Game New w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Declick Dice Game offered with a dash of luxury. Flanged bridle leather case marked with a saddle nail. Maple marquetry dice. R...
HERMÈS - Vintage Unisex Ring Circa 1980s Bijouterie Fantaisie 54 Size
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Raro anello unisex della serie "Hermès Bijiouterie Fantaisie" completo di astuccio originale dell' epoca, misura 54. Vi è un fascino par...
Hermes Etriviere Dog Collar Large Model New
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Guaranteed authentic Hermes Etriviere dog collar featured in Natural Sable natural bridle leather. Buckle is stirrup shape. D ring for a leash. 2cm ...
Hermès Garden Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: the center represents a black and white checkered floor, the whole drawing a balcony with beams and lush vegetation of large foliag...
Hermes Samarcande Paperweight Terracotta Lacquered Wood
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Samarcnade paperweight featured in Terracotta lacquered wood. Crafted in layers of hand lacquered wood, and sanded to reveal the beauty of the colour. This exquisite paperweight can serve as a stand alone. No longer produced in the lacquered finish. Leather base stamped...
Hermès Set of 5 Stirrups Shaped Prix De Diane Aluminium Sign Plates
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Set of 5 Collectible Authentic Hermès Plates These plates were made to celebrate the equestrian "Prix de Diane" and was sponsored by Hermès Paris. This ...
Hermès Dolphins Print Cigar Ashtray Porcelain Platinum
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely and so rare authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: 3 jumping Dolphins Made in France Made in 1979 for the first flight of Boeing 747 for UTA (Union de Transports Aériens - Air T...
Hermès Sealyham Terrier PorcelainAshtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Sealyham Terrier ashtray designed by Carl de Parcevaux from the "Chiens Courants et chiens d'arrêt" collection. Made of porcelain, the edges are gilded with fine gold and...
Hermès Leather Wood Jump Rope Limited Edition
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Jump Rope Limited Edition ! Collectible Item Made in France in 2013 Made of beige wood and "gold" leather "Made in France...
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.