Hermes bags are some of the most coveted and sought-after bags in the world. They are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and timeless designs.
But what makes these bags so special? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of Hermes Bags
Hermes is a French luxury brand that was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermes. The company started as a harness and saddle maker, but soon expanded into other leather goods, including bags.
The first Hermes bag was created in 1922, and it was called the “Sac à dépêches,” which means “dispatch bag” in French. The bag was designed to hold papers and documents for horse riders, but it soon became popular as an everyday handbag.
The Design of Hermes Bags
One of the most distinctive features of Hermes bags is their design. They are known for their clean lines, simple shapes, and minimal hardware.
Most Hermes bags have a rectangular or square shape with rounded edges. They are made from high-quality leather and are available in a variety of colors and textures.
The Birkin Bag
Perhaps the most famous Hermes bag is the Birkin bag. This iconic bag was created in 1984 after actress Jane Birkin complained to the CEO of Hermes that she couldn’t find a leather weekend bag that she liked. The CEO then worked with her to create a bag that met her specifications, and thus the Birkin bag was born.
The Birkin bag is characterized by its classic shape, double handles, and lock-and-key closure. It is made from high-quality leather and is available in a variety of sizes and colors.
The Kelly Bag
Another iconic Hermes bag is the Kelly bag. This bag was originally known as the “Sac à dépêches pour dames,” or “ladies’ dispatch bag,” and was first introduced in the 1930s. It was renamed the Kelly bag in the 1950s after actress and princess of Monaco Grace Kelly was photographed carrying one.
The Kelly bag is characterized by its trapezoid shape, single handle, and turn-lock closure. It is also made from high-quality leather and is available in a variety of colors and sizes.
The Craftsmanship of Hermes Bags
One of the reasons that Hermes bags are so special is their exquisite craftsmanship. Each bag is made by hand by skilled artisans who have undergone years of training. The leather used to make the bags is carefully selected and inspected for quality before it is used.
The hardware on Hermes bags, such as the locks, zippers, and clasps, are all made from high-quality materials like gold or palladium. The stitching on each bag is done by hand using a technique called “saddle stitching,” which ensures that the seams are strong and durable.
The Rarity of Hermes Bags
Another reason that Hermes bags are so special is their rarity. Each bag takes hours to make by hand, and only a limited number are produced each year. In addition, many Hermes bags are only available through special order or by waiting on long waiting lists.
This exclusivity has led to a thriving market for secondhand Hermes bags, with some styles selling for tens of thousands of dollars.
In Conclusion
Hermes bags are special because of their exquisite craftsmanship, timeless design, and exclusivity. They have become symbols of luxury and status around the world, coveted by fashionistas and collectors alike. Whether you prefer the classic Birkin or the elegant Kelly, there’s no denying that these bags are truly something special.