Why Did Hermes Change Their Name?

In Greek mythology, Hermes was the messenger of the gods and the patron of travelers, merchants, and thieves. However, in the world of fashion, Hermes is known for its luxury goods such as bags, scarves, and watches. But did you know that the brand was not always called Hermes?

The Origins of Hermes

The story of Hermes can be traced back to 1837 when Thierry Hermes opened his first shop in Paris. The shop specialized in high-quality harnesses and saddles for horses. Over time, Hermes expanded its product line to include leather goods such as bags and wallets.

Why Did Hermes Change Their Name?

Despite being a successful business, it wasn’t until 1929 that Hermes decided to change its name from ‘Hermes Frères’ to simply ‘Hermes.’ There were a couple of reasons for this change.

A New Image

At the time, the brand wanted to shake off its image as a maker of equestrian goods and establish itself as a luxury fashion house. By dropping ‘Frères’ from its name, it signaled a departure from its past and paved the way for a new direction.

Simplicity is Key

Another reason for the name change was simplicity. ‘Hermes Frères’ was seen as too long and complicated for international markets. By shortening it to just ‘Hermes,’ it made it easier for non-French speakers to remember and pronounce.

The Legacy of Hermes

Today, Hermes is one of the most recognized luxury brands in the world. Its signature orange boxes are synonymous with quality craftsmanship and exclusive products that are highly sought after by discerning customers.

  • The brand still retains its equestrian heritage with products such as saddles and riding boots.
  • However, it has also expanded into other areas such as jewelry, perfumes, and home furnishings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to change its name from ‘Hermes Frères’ to simply ‘Hermes’ was a strategic move that helped the brand establish itself as a luxury fashion house. Today, Hermes continues to innovate and create products that are both timeless and modern, cementing its place as one of the most iconic brands in the world.