In 1837, Thierry Hermès founded a workshop in Paris, France, specializing in premium horse‑tack and carriage accessories. Back then, carriages were the primary means of transport for European nobility. As such, high‑quality harnesses stood not only for practicality, but also for status and prestige.
As times changed, automobiles gradually replaced horse‑drawn carriages. Nevertheless, Hermès preserved its time‑honoured craftsmanship. The rigorous standards for leatherwork, stitching and fine details honoured in harness‑making were carried over to leather goods, silk scarves, watches, jewellery, ready‑to‑wear apparel and home collections.
Hermès released its very first leather handbag in 1922. In 1935 came the Sac à dépêches, later renamed the Kelly bag. The iconic Birkin bag made its debut in 1984. Since then, Hermès has evolved from a French brand into a global benchmark for fine leather craftsmanship and luxury.
Boasting nearly two centuries of heritage, Hermès runs boutiques across the world, staying true to its brand ethos of hand‑crafted excellence and quality above all else.
Hermès owes its success not to any single bag, but to one enduring principle: craft before commerce, quality before speed.
