Have you ever wondered why the luxury brand Hermes is so strongly associated with the color orange? From their iconic shopping bags to their signature leather products, Hermes has become synonymous with this distinctive shade. The answer to why Hermes is orange lies in the brand’s rich history and the way they have chosen to represent themselves.
The Origins of the Hermès Orange
Hermes was founded in Paris in 1837 by Thierry Hermès as a harness workshop for horses. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality leather goods, including saddles and bridles.
In the early days, Hermes used a variety of colors for their products, including green, red, and beige. However, they eventually settled on a deep orange hue that would become their trademark.
The story goes that in the 1920s, Emile-Maurice Hermès (Thierry’s grandson) was looking for a way to set his brand apart from competitors. He chose orange because it was a vibrant and eye-catching color that was rarely used in fashion at the time. The shade he selected was inspired by the coloring of French carriage wheels, which were painted orange to make them more visible on the road.
The Meaning Behind the Color
For Hermes, orange represents luxury, elegance, and sophistication. It is a bold color that demands attention and conveys confidence. It is also a warm and welcoming color that suggests friendliness and approachability.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, there are other reasons why Hermes chose orange as their signature color. One is practical: because it is such an unusual hue, it makes it easier for customers to spot an authentic Hermes product from across a crowded room or street.
Another reason why orange resonates with Hermes is its association with creativity and innovation. Orange is often linked with originality and out-of-the-box thinking – qualities that are highly valued by the brand.
The Iconic Hermes Orange
Today, the Hermes orange is instantly recognizable and has become an integral part of the brand’s identity. It is used in everything from their shopping bags and packaging to their clothing and accessories. The color is often paired with other shades, such as brown or black, to create a classic and timeless look that is synonymous with the brand.
In recent years, other luxury brands have tried to emulate Hermes’ use of orange. Some have used similar shades in their marketing materials or product collections, but none have been able to capture the same level of recognition and prestige as Hermes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reason why Hermes is orange boils down to a combination of history, innovation, and branding strategy. The iconic shade represents luxury, creativity, and attention-grabbing style.
It has become an essential part of the brand’s identity and sets them apart from competitors. So next time you see that unmistakable orange hue on a Hermes product or shopping bag, you’ll know exactly why it’s there – and appreciate it all the more for its rich history and significance.