What Is the Oldest Hermes Bag?

If you’re a fashion enthusiast, you’re probably aware of the iconic Hermes bags. These luxurious bags are known for their timeless appeal and exquisite craftsmanship.

But have you ever wondered which is the oldest Hermes bag? In this article, we’ll explore the history of Hermes bags and find out which one holds the title of being the oldest.

To understand the history of Hermes bags, we need to go back to the early 19th century. At that time, Hermes was primarily a harness and saddle-making company in Paris. It wasn’t until the 1920s that Hermes started producing handbags for women.

One of the earliest Hermes bags was introduced in 1922 – it was called “Sac à dépêches” which means “dispatch bag”. This bag was designed to carry letters and documents for men. However, it became popular among women as well due to its sleek design and functionality.

In 1935, Robert Dumas (a member of the Hermes family) designed a bag for his wife – it was named “The Kelly” after Grace Kelly who later became Princess Grace of Monaco. The Kelly bag became an instant hit and remains one of Hermes’ most iconic designs to this day.

But neither Sac à dépêches nor The Kelly bag hold the title for being the oldest Hermes bag.

The honor goes to another classic design – The Haut à courroies (HAC) bag. This bag was first introduced in 1892 as a travel bag for horse riders. It had straps that allowed it to be carried over one’s shoulder or across one’s body – hence its name “Haut à courroies” which means “high straps”.

The HAC bag was later modified in size and shape to become a handbag for women. Today, it is still in production with slight modifications but remains true to its original design from over a century ago.

In conclusion, while many iconic designs have been produced by Hermes over the years, the oldest Hermes bag is the Haut à courroies (HAC) bag that was first introduced in 1892. Its timeless appeal and durability are a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Owning one of these bags is not just a fashion statement but also a piece of history.