Hermes is a luxury fashion brand that has been around for centuries, known for its iconic designs and high-quality products. But who founded this prestigious brand? Let’s find out.
Early Beginnings
The story of Hermes begins in 1837 when Thierry Hermes opened a small workshop in Paris specializing in harnesses and saddles for horses. Thierry was born into a family of leather artisans and had learned the trade from his father. He quickly gained a reputation for creating exceptional quality products using the finest materials available.
Expanding to Fashion
In the late 1800s, Thierry’s son, Charles-Emile Hermes, took over the family business and began expanding into fashion. He introduced leather handbags and luggage, which quickly became popular with the elite of Paris.
The Kelly Bag
One of Hermes’ most iconic designs is the Kelly bag, named after Grace Kelly who famously carried one in the movie “To Catch a Thief.” The bag was originally designed in the 1930s as a saddlebag but was later modified into a handbag by Robert Dumas, who married into the Hermes family.
The Birkin Bag
Another famous design created by Hermes is the Birkin bag, named after actress Jane Birkin. The story goes that Jane was sitting next to Jean-Louis Dumas (Thierry Hermes’ grandson) on a plane when she complained about not being able to find a good leather weekend bag. Jean-Louis offered to create one for her, and thus the Birkin bag was born.
Growth and Expansion
Under Jean-Louis’ leadership, Hermes continued to grow and expand its product lines. The company began producing scarves in 1937, which are still popular today. They also introduced men’s and women’s clothing, jewelry, and fragrance.
The Orange Box
If you’ve ever purchased a Hermes product, you’ll be familiar with the iconic orange box it comes in. The box was introduced in the 1950s and has become synonymous with the brand’s luxury and prestige.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes was founded by Thierry Hermes in 1837 as a small workshop specializing in harnesses and saddles. Over the years, the company expanded into fashion under the leadership of Charles-Emile Hermes and Jean-Louis Dumas. Today, Hermes is known for its iconic designs, high-quality products, and luxurious reputation.