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 Vintage Silver Nautical Place-Card or Menu Holders Set
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES vintage set of 12 silver nautical place-car or menu holders featuring a ship's wheel. A rare and refined set for sailing enthusiasts or yacht owners. Embossed HERMES. French...
Hermès New Black Porcelain H Deco Mug
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
The Hermès H Art Deco Mug, features the Hermès 24 Faubourg and rue de Sèvres stores, inspired H Déco collection including the mug. The service is stamped with the initials HH, around...
HERMES Vintage Silver Plate Chain Vase
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES vintage silver plate vase featuring a chain detail. Embossed HERMES PARIS. Indicative measurements : height approx. 16.1 cm (6.34 inches) / diameter of the base approx. 7.6 ...
Hermès Koala Terry Cotton Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès Koala Terry Cotton Beach Towel is in 100% terry cotton, in serviette de Plage Koala. Perfect accessory for your next swim, on your boat, in your home.
Vintage Hermes Horseshoe print silk Tie
By Hermès
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
Vintage Hermes Silk Tie Hermes Horseshoe print tie Brown, beige, silk ,horseshoe print, diagonal stripe pattern, finished edge, and pointed toe Paris...
Hermes Rose Pourpre Horse Bag Charm NIB
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès grigri rodeo bag charm. Size: PM (small). Brand new. Combination of rose pourpre, celeste, and rust leather. Comes with box, ribbon, and gift bag. Date stamp A for 2017. Marke...
Hermès Palladium Photo Holder With Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes authentic photo holder/name stand in palladium hardware with H logo. Comes with original box.
Hermès "Koala Tapis de Plage"Terry Towel
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Vintage "Koala Tapis de Plage" terry cotton beach towel, known for its vibrant koala and eucalyptus leaf design, it is vintage made from 100% cotton terry cloth.
Hermès Horse and Carriage Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Horse and Carriage Ashtray is made from 100% Porcelain and features a red color way of a horse and carriage. The tray has a gold tone border and a black suede bottom. Inaugura...
Hermes Limited Edition Samarcande Blanket Marine Wool / Cashmere
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a limited edition Hermes Samarcande Blanket featured in Marine colorway. Created from 90% Wool and 10% Cashmere this wonderfully warm blanket is a chic addition to any room. Exquisite fresh modern creation! New or Pristine Store Fresh...
Hermès Evelyne Small Change Tray NIB
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès Mises et Relances Change Tray is in smooth Taurillon leather with plated palladium buttons and perforated Evelyn "H" signature. Comes with original box.
HERMES natural bridle leather outdoor picnic plaid blanket carry strap
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES natural bridle leather outdoor picnic plaid blanket carry strap Reference: KYCG/A00276 Brand: Hermes Material: Leather Color: Brown, Silver Pattern: Solid Closure: Belt Lining...
Bijou de sac Hermès Pegasus 1993
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Cadenas Hermès Pegasus doré datant de 1993. Très bon état. Pièce de collection emblématique. Maison : Hermès Modèle : Pegasus Année : 1993 Couleur : Doré État : Très bon état Usage ...
Hermes Trousse Bride-A-Brac Case Large Model Naturel
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Trousse Bride-A-Brac Case featured in Naturel canvas. Embroidered H on the front. Top strap features a woven zig zag with White trim. With two Clou de Se...
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 ...
Hermès "Leopard" Cotton Sarong
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès "Leopard" sarong is in 100% cotton with hand rolled edges, features a classic all-over leopard print with a narrow contrasting border.
Hermès Blue Chaine d'Ancre Tea Cup & Saucer
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Tasse à Thé & Soucoupe Hermès Chaine d'Ancre Bleue en porcelaine Parfait état
Hermès New Set Of 2 Art Deco Mugs W/Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès brand new set of 2 coffee mugs, black and white art deco design made of porcelain. Come with original box and booklet.
Hermes Vintage Carriage Blue Beach Towel
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes vintage carriage beach towel. Blue, green and white combination. Please refer to photo for 2 stains.
HERMÈS - 1990s Vintage Animal Print Cotton Beach Towel 150x90 cm Unisex
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Rare vintage beach towel in pure cotton ( 150 x 90 cm. ). Excellent Condition.
Hermès Pair Braque Vintage Mini Ashtrays
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
The Hermès vintage set of "Braque d'auvergne" mini ashtrays are a collectable set in great condition. Excellent condition. Comes with original box.
Hermes New Black Kelly Twist Bracelet
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès brand new Kelly Twist Bracelet in Black Swift Leather with rose gold hardware. Date stamp B for 2023. Comes with original dust cover and box.
Hermes Tray Jungle Love Emerald Limoges Porcelain New w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Jungle Love Limoges porcelain tray featured in Emerald. Hand painted porcelain with hand painted platinum trim. This beloved print is timeless and highly ...
Hermès H Deco Mug New In Box
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès H Deco collection is inspired by the Art Deco ironwork of Hermès' Parisian stores. This Parisian tea service, stamped with the initials HH, around which an intricate deco...
Hermès Blue and Brown Catch All
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès catch all desk tray in blue and brown leather. The "Evelyne H" is stamped on the brown leather. For cleaning you can open the edges with the sn...
Hermes Mosaique Au 24 Dessert Plate Platinum Set of 2 New w/Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Mosaique Au 24 Platinum Dessert Plate Set of 2 in porcelain. The mosaic motif reflects the mosaic floor at t...
Hermes Passifolia Large Salad Bowl New w/Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Large Salad Bowl featured in the classic Hermes Passifolia pattern. A beautiful hommage to the peace and power of ...
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...
Hermes Equestrian Brown / White Limoges Porcelain Change Tray
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a rare vintage Hermes Chevaux à la Couverture Change Tray. A beautiful warm brown offsets the delicate features of the white horse. Ac...
Hermes Rocabar Plaid Dog Blanket Reversible
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Rocobar Plaid dog blanket is inspired by the iconic Rocabar blanket. Reversible 100% Wool and is very resistant to wear. Your chic fashionista pup will l...
Exceptional Hermès Pli H Change Tray in Leather
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Height of elegance for this gorgeous authentic Hermès change tray From the "Pli'H" collection Made in France Made of smooth bridle leather, a raw and authentic leather, which deve...
Hermes Sellier Change Tray Blue Roi Gold Limoges Porcelain New w/ Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Sellier change tray featured in Bleu Roi and Or. Limoges Porcelain decorated with chromolithography. A decorative ashtray piece perfect for any room. Protected by velvet goatskin on the base. Wonderful for desk or gifting. Accompanied with signature Hermes box and ribbon. New or Pristine Store Fresh Condition Mightychic is your Hermes online boutique offering an incomparable shopping experience for your Hermes purchase...
Hermes Jungle Porcelain Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes blue, green and brown porcelain ashtray with a jungle scene design
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 Lao Paperweight Brain Teaser Acajou Ebenise Mahogany Wood
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Lao paperweight featured in Acajou Ebenise. In addition to its inherent charm, this exquisite solid ebonized mahogany Lao is a b...
Hermes H Vibration Blanket Terre Cuite Limited Edition
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a limited edition Hermes Avalon Vibration Blanket featured in Terre Cuite (Terracotta) colorway. Double sided jacquard weave. Created from 90% Wool and 10% Cashmere...
Hermes Rallye 24 Set of 6 Limoge Porcelain Tumblers
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Rare Item - Hermes Rallye 24 Set of 6 Limoge Porcelain Tumblers From a sought-after, discontinued collection is this set of six multicoloured tumblers m...
Hermes Bain Neobain Blue Marine Small Model New
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Guaranteed authentic "Hermes Bain" Neobain case featured in the small model. In beautiful Blue Marine with embossed tone on tone print. Top zipper with lea...
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 Sterling Silver Decorative Vase
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès elegant small sterling silver vase by the iconic Maison Hermès of Paris. Features include a signature around the exterior of the rim, Hermès Paris and Made In France.
Hermès New Zebra Blue Porcelain Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new blue and white porcelain ashtray with zebra design. Comes with original box.
Hermès leather cards case
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMES - Leather case including two card decks and one pen. Condition: Very good condition. A few light marks on leather. SKU:ACC448
Hermès Ship & Flags Porcelain Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès ship and flags Ashtray is crafted from porcelain and features a ray of blues and yellow making it easy to compliment any room.
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...
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...
Set of two Hermès Africa Breakfast Cups & Saucers
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Set de deux Tasses à Déjeuner & Soucoupes Hermès Africa en porcelaine Parfait état
Hermes Bleus d’Ailleurs Sugar Bowl Porcelain
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes limited edition Bleus d’Ailleurs Sugar Bowl. Crafted from fine porcelain, the Hermès Bleus d’Ailleurs sugar bowl cap...
Hermès Porcelain Gold Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Sacred Cow Adorned With Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: sacred cow adorned with gold ornaments Made in France Vintage item Made of porcelain, edges and notches hand painted with fine g...
Hermes Cards La Collection Emile Hermes Memory Game
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes La Collection Memory game. Features drawings from the Emile Hermes Collection - makes for hours of family fun or a charming gift. Comes with gift box and ...
Hermès Paris vintage porcelain ashtray with a green and gold floral pattern, Made in France
By Hermès
Located in Basaluzzo, IT
An elegant vintage Hermès Paris ashtray made of French porcelain, decorated with delicate pink-lilac flowers and green leaves on an ivory background, framed by a wide band of deep gr...
Hermes Sushi Plate Mosaique Au 24 Platinum Small Model Porcelain New w/Box
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a guaranteed authentic Hermes marvelous sushi plate also used as a small decorative tray. Limoges Porcelain in platinum and gray mosaic print pays tribute to the iconic mosaic floor of the historic Hermes Faubourg...
Hermès Bunch of Grapes Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Bunch of grapes, grape, vine leaves Theme: vine, harvest, grape, wine Beautiful in a cellar. Would make a great gift for a wine ...
New in Box Hermes Rodeo PM Rose Azalee Bag Charm
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes rare and collectible grigri rodeo bag charm PM (small). Combination of rose azalea, black and electric blue. Brand new in box with ribbon and gift bag.
$188Sale Price|35% Off
Hermes Petit H Line Dark Green Dalmatian Dog Calfskin Bag Charm
By Hermès
Located in Port Hope, ON
This Hermes bag charm belongs to the brand's sustainable Petit H Line which uses offcuts of materials left after crafting the Hermes bags. Some people use it as a key holder, but I ...
HERMES c.1980's 2pc Navy & White Horse Bit Beach Towel Drawstring Bucket Bag Set
By ERIC BERGERE, Hermès
Located in Thiensville, WI
Rare Vintage Hermes c.1980's exclusively for Bonwit Teller; two piece navy blue and white horse bit motif beach towel and bucket bag set. White h...
Hermes Large Porcelain French Military Hat Motif Ashtray
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Hermes Large Porcelain French Military Hat Motif Ashtray is a luxurious and distinctive decorative piece that combines elegance with historical charm. Crafted from fine porcelain, th...
Hermes Blue Paddock Bag Charm
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès paddock ribbon bag charm in naturel, parchemin, celeste, vert leather. Brand new with original box.
Set of two Hermès Balcon du Guadalquivir Gold Tea Cups
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
2 Tasses à thé Hermès Balcon du Guadalquivir Or avec soucoupes en porcelaine Parfait état Modèle extrêmement rare Collector
Hermès Avalon throw pillow in orange (Potiron) and ecru (beige) wool cashmere
By Hermès
Located in Palm Beach, FL
An emblem of Hermès’ equestrian heritage translated into interiors, the Avalon throw pillow brings the house’s iconic graphic language into a refined, tactile form. Woven in a luxuri...
Hermes Black Leather Kelly Dog Lead / Leash
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Hermes Black Leather Kelly Dog Lead / Leash Signed on both the leather and hardware. Metal hardware, new, with retail tag and box. Length approx. ...
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.