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 Charm Cupid Angel God of Love and Heart in Leather Petit h
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Please note: Cupid may appear blue. It is in fact lawn green Shapes: Cupid and Heart From the Petit h collection Made of leather Colorway: lawn g...
Hermes Cotton Epopee Honore Naturel Horse Plush Toy
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Introducing the Hermes Cotton Epopee Honore Naturel Horse Plush Toy, an enchanting addition to any child's playroom or nursery. This exquisite plush toy is...
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.
Hermes Orange Knotting Cards Cartes a Nouer Orange N°5
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes orange knotting cards "Cartes à nouer" featuring cards to show you how to knot all Hermes scarves and Twilly. Delivered in original box. In excellent vintage condition. Made ...
Hermès Panda Bear Print Porcelain Gold Cigar Ashtray Change Tray
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Super Cute Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: 8 pandas in a bamboo decor Very Rare Made in France Made of porcelain, platinum silvered edges and notches Beige suede leather at back...
HERMES Vintage Silver Plate Equestrian Horse Bit Double Pot
By Hermès
Located in Nice, FR
HERMES vintage silver plate double pot featuring an equestrian horse bit design handle. Embossed HERMES PARIS Made in France. RAVINET D'ENFERT (RD) silvers...
Exceptional Hermès Ashtray Change Tray Pipe Holder Pipe Shaped
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Can be used as change tray or pipe holder Pipe-shaped Vintage item Made of glazed ceramic Colorways: Beige / Brown "HERMÈS" engraved on a side M...
Hermès Parrot Bird Print Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Parrot Great gift idea for a parrot lover ! Made in France Vintage item Made of porcelain, edges and notches hand painted with fine gold ...
Set of 2 Framed Carriages Engravings from the Hermès Collection RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare opportunity to get 2 drawings from the Hermès Collection Prints: Carriages First one: "n°.118. Calèche bas de berline derrière col de cigne de...
HERMÈS - Vintage 1990s Gold Metal Document Clip with Wood Inlays, Unisex
By Hermès
Located in Padova, IT
CORRADO LUXURY EXCLUSIVE HERMÈS COLLECTIONS - Document clip made of gilded metal and inlays of various woods. A skillfully crafted item from another era and part of a set of desk pro...
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 ...
Exceptional Hermès Ashtray Change Tray Golden Pineapple in Porcelain
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Lovely and rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Pineapples Made in France Vintage item Made of porcelain with golden edges Colorways: White, Blue, Green, Golden Bottom is cover...
Hermès Trimmings Tassel Paper Clip Money Clip Ravinet d'Enfert
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès Paper Clip Limited edition numbered 38819 Designed by Ravinet d'Enfert for Hermès Vintage item Body in silver-tone metal, top decorated with...
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. ...
Hermes Leather Grape Cluster Motif and Silver Bag Charm
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Hermes Leather Grape Cluster Motif and Silver Bag Charm Silver chain marked 925, the leather stamped, in a velvet pouch, also marked, with box. Length 2 in., with chain 4.5 in. Cond...
Hermes Green Epsom Leather Note Pad Cover
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Hermes Green Epsom Leather Note Pad Cover signed, rectangular with a single snap flap. 4.5 by 4 in. Condition Report like new
Hermès Double Sided Wooden Photo Frame
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Photo Frame Made of wood, brown suede leather at base Completely empty in its center, allowing vision from bot...
Hermes Mises et Relances H Evelyne Change Tray Potiron Key Wallet Money Cigar
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Perforated H Evelyne design - Snap closures - Made in France - Comes with box Condition: The change tray is in overall great condition with no major imperfections Measu...
Hermès Pouch Case Trousse Jimetou Colonnes in Cotton GM
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Case Called "Trousse Jimétou Colonnes" Made in France Outside made of 100% cotton toile, inside lined with Polyurethane cotto...
Hermès Glazed Terracotta Pottery Jar With Deer Head Lid
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Jar Made of glazed terracotta (in french: terre cuite émaillée) Also called ceramic or pottery Vintage item Outside and inside glazed The lid is dec...
Set of Two Hermes Chaine d'Ancre Platine Tea Cups & Saucers
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Deux Tasses à Thé & Soucoupes Hermès Chaine d'Ancre au Platine en porcelaine Parfait état
Hermès Raconte Moi Le Cheval 25 Pieces Foam RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Please notice: Not suitable for children under 36 months of age Adorable Authentic Hermès Puzzle Pattern: "Raconte moi le Cheval" Made in Fran...
Hermès BNIB Green Shearling Dog Charm
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermès new in box green milo leather and shearling dog charm. Date stamp U for 2022. Drop 9.5”.
Hermes Fuchsia Leather Bag Tassel
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Hermes Fuchsia Leather Bag Tassel Length 2.5 in.
Hermès Set of 14 Notepads Tohu Bohu Pattern in Box
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Set of 14 Notepads Pattern: Tohu Bohu Made in France Cardboard covers, plain white pages inside Measurements (Length x Height) - ...
Hermès Cigar AshtrayChange Tray Horse Print in Porcelain
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Beautiful Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: 3 magnificent designs featuring a horse's head and 2 zooms on the eyes and harnesses Made in France Made of printed porcelain, b...
Hermès Rallye au 24 Large Oval Plate
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Très rare Grand Plat Ovale Hermès "Rallye au 24" en porcelaine. Dimensions : 30 x 24.5 x 3 cm Parfait état.
Hermès Helicopter Key Ring Leather for Eurocopter
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Key Holder Rectangular in shape, hot-stamped with a helicopter "l'Hélicoptère par Hermès" hot-stamped on the front "eurocpter an EADS Company HERMÈS PARIS" h...
Hermès Pipe Holder Pulley Shackle Shaped Vintage in Silver Rare Navy Theme
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Stunning and Rare Authentic Hermès Pipe-Holder In shape of a a pulley and shackle (the shackle is fixed, not movable) Vintage item Answers to the silver test Can be used as pipe-...
Exceptional Hermès Pipe Holder Stirrup Shaped in Brass and Leather Texas
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Stunning and Rare Authentic Hermès Pipe Holder In shape of a stirrup Can hold up to 3 pipes (comes with no pipe) Made of gilded brass and leather, saddle stitching Colorways: gol...
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...
Bijou de sac Hermès Cadenas Doré 1998
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Cadenas Hermès doré datant de 1998. Accessoire iconique et objet de collection. Ce cadenas Hermès doré datant de 1998 est un accessoire emblématique de la maison Hermès. Initialemen...
Hermès and Paul Jouve Leather Portfolio with Knocker Medor Ghw RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Stunning Rare Authentic Paul Jouve by Hermès Portfolio Paul Jouve is a french artist, painter animal sculptor (1878-1973) Very nice Piece...
Hermès Petit H Panda Charm for Bag or Shoe Orange Pink Leather
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Super Cute Authentic Hermès Charm Panda head shaped Can be used as a charm for your bag or shoe, or as a scarf ring Made of clemence leather for the pink side, epsom leather for t...
Hermès Noordeinde Paleis Royal Palace Ashtray Porcelain Gold The Netherlands
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Noordeinde Palace Drawing is stunning: delicate, fine, trees seem so real "HET KONINKLIJK PALEIS NOORDEINDE" (THE ROYAL PALACE...
Hermès "Tigre Altai" Change Tray New
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This Hermès "Tigre Altai" change tray in porcelain, with velvet goatskin base, decorated using a hand-applied printing technique, "Hermès Paris" stamped base. Designed by Katie Scott...
Hermès Old Car Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain Gold
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare and Lovely Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: a couple traveling in an old hand-cranked car, edges decorated with a drive chain design. A refined gift, ideal for all lovers of vi...
$848Sale Price|20% Off
Hermes Mosaïque au 24 Tart Platter Presentation Dish
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Iconic presentation dish from Hermes in Porcelaine representing the mosaique of the legendary boutique of 24 fig st Honore. Hard to find in the store this tart platter will be the pe...
Exceptional Hermès and Paul Jouve Leather Portfolio with Knocker Medor
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Absolutely Stunning Rare Authentic Paul Jouve by Hermès Portfolio Paul Jouve is a french artist, painter animal sculptor (1878-1973) Very nice Piece i...
Hermès Sellier Fly Bonnet Navy Crocheted Cotton Horse Size
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermès Sellier fly bonnet is crafted in navy crocheted cotton, offering a classic and versatile equestrian look. The deep navy tone pairs easily with a wide rang...
Hermès Paris Stirrup Shaped Letter Opener Paper Cutter by Ravinet d'Enfert
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare Authentic Hermès Letter Opener The upper end in the shape of a stirrup Made in France by Ravinet d'Enfert Vintage Item In silvery metal "HERMÈS.PARIS MADE IN FR...
Hermès Car Key Ring Key Holder Smooth Red Leather
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Key Holder Pattern: Steering wheel "VOITURE MACCHINA CAR" engraved in the wheel "HERMES PARIS" engraved at back Made of Red...
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
Valise Business Hermès Courchevel année 80-90
By Hermès
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Valise business Hermès en cuir Courchevel Gold datant des années 80-90. Très bon état. Cette valise business Hermès en cuir Courchevel Gold, datant des années 1980-1990, illustre pa...
Hermès Vintage Small Table Ashtray Culbuto in Black Leather RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Super Cute Authentic Hermès Ashtray The rounded bottom allows it not to fall, and the holes allow to hold the cigarettes Can be hung thanks to its handle Vintage Item Made of sm...
Hermes Cornucopia Silver Tone Metal Cigarette Box
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermès Silver-tone metal cigarette box featuring a “Cornucopia design” (Horn of abundance) on the top, wrapped with black leather, removable metal insert, engraved Hermes Paris on t...
Hermes Porcelain Toucan Plate
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Why not get your fine china from the most luxurious fashion house of Hermes? The quality and love put into every piece will last you a lifetime and more. Grab this one of a kind plate for your next dinner party or give it as a gift to your favorite host to show gratitude. This is large enough to be a serving platter that will make a beautiful statement or would look fabulous set upon a display cabinet to add beautiful pops of color. This plate is featured in different shades of vibrant blues, greens, and yellows that pair together effortlessly. This whimsical plate depicts five toucans perched upon branches with green and yellow piping to the edges. Set upon your fine china cabinet...
Antique Vintage Fashion Piece - Unique Design from the 1800s
By Hermès
Located in Capri, IT
Hermès Atrium Tray NWOT Hand-lacquered wooden tray lined with smooth taurillon leather - Flap with magnetic closure in smooth taurillon leather, saddle-stitched - Polished edge alon...
$1,599Sale Price|20% Off
Hermès Rare Desk Set With Cornucopia
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Incredible Hermes desk set comprising 4 pieces: two dishes (one is missing the leather back, the other one is in better condition), paper clips holder...
Hermès Set of 2 Silver-Tone Metal Cups Coffee Mugs Chaine d'Ancre Pattern RARE
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Rare Authentic Hermès Cups Set of 2 Handes in shape of "Chaine d'Ancre", famous Hermès Pattern Made in France Made of Silver-Tone Metal Colorways: Silv...
Hermès White Hermine Print Cigar Ashtray Change Tray Porcelain and Platinum
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Extremely Rare and Lovely Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: White Ermine Made in France Made of porcelain, hand painted platinum notches and edges Color...
Night blue cashmere pillow case with "H" metallic studs. Hermès
By Hermès
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Night blue cashmere pillow case with "H" metallic studs. SIZE 48 cm X 48 cm 10 pieces available same size, same color
Hermes Plaid Coquillages - 135x170cm - Potiron Pink - New - Rare!
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Hermes Plaid Coquillages - 135x170cm - Potiron Pink NWOCTS 2403261718 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Plaid (Throw Blanket) “Coquillages” Size: 135 x 165 cm (approx. 53 x 65 in) Weight: C...
Hermès Danse Porcelaine Square Plate
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes collectible design by Kermit Oliver Danse des Indiennes Porcelaine small square plate.
Hermès New Large Avalon Burgundy Pillow
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Up for sale brand new Hermès large Avalon pillow in discontinued burgundy color way. Taupe an cream decoration. 90% wool, 10% cashmere. Dry clean only.
Gorgeous Hermès Ashtray Change Tray Autumn Fall theme in Porcelain
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Gorgeous and Rare Authentic Hermès Ashtray Print: Chestnut and Oak Leaf Theme: Fall Made in France Made of printed porcelain Colorways: White, Brown, Green, Golden "HERMÈS-PAR...
Hermès Set of 13 Paper Clips Horse Head Shape in Box
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Set of 13 Authentic Hermès Paper Clips Pattern: shape of a horse's head From "Le sens de l'objet" Year (2017) Made of Metal (non precious) Colorway: S...
Hermès Set of four Small Ashtrays Porcelain and Gold Animals Prints
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Ashtrays Also called "guest ashtray", these small objects can be placed near the plates, or be used as change tray Prints: Dog, Eaggle, Goat, Giraffe M...
Hermes Plaid Plaid Avalon Cabriole Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Gris Perle - New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Plaid Avalon Cabriole Baby Blanket – 135x95cm - Gris Perle – NWCTS - 2606131752 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Avalon Cabriole Baby Throw Blanket / Plaid Artist: Hermès Studio Size: 135 ...
Hermès Toucans Egg Cup
By Hermès
Located in VALBONNE, FR
Coquetier Hermès Toucans en porcelaine Parfait état
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.