Hermes, the luxury brand known for its iconic Birkin bags and silk scarves, is instantly recognizable by its signature shade of orange. But have you ever wondered why Hermes chose this particular color?
It all started back in the 1930s when the company began producing leather goods. At that time, the majority of luxury brands were using dark and somber colors such as black and brown for their products. However, Hermes wanted to stand out from the crowd and create a distinctive identity for their brand.
The choice of orange was not arbitrary but carefully considered. The company’s founder, Emile-Maurice Hermes, was an avid horseman and had a deep love for equestrian sports. The color orange was inspired by his passion for horses and hunting.
In equestrian events, riders wear brightly colored jackets or shirts to make them more visible to spectators. Hermes chose orange as it is not only eye-catching but also a practical color that can be easily seen from a distance.
The iconic Hermes orange is often described as a burnt orange or terra-cotta hue. It exudes warmth, energy, and vitality – qualities that are synonymous with the brand’s spirit.
Over time, Hermes has become synonymous with this vibrant shade of orange. The company uses it not only on their leather goods but also on their packaging, shopping bags, promotional materials – even their website!
In fact, the use of orange has become so closely associated with Hermes that it has become a trademarked color known as “Orange Hermès”. This unique shade is protected by law in some countries like France where no other brand can use it without permission.
In conclusion, Hermes chose orange because it represents the company’s heritage in equestrian pursuits and embodies its spirit of warmth, energy, and vitality. It has become an integral part of the brand’s identity and continues to be used today across all aspects of their business.