Have you ever wondered why Hermes boxes are orange? The iconic French luxury brand is known for its high-quality products, but the distinctive orange color of their packaging has also become a symbol of the brand itself. In this article, we will explore the history and significance behind Hermes’ signature hue.
What is Hermes?
Hermes is a French luxury brand that specializes in leather goods, fashion accessories, and ready-to-wear clothing. Founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès, the company has a long history of crafting high-quality products that are both functional and stylish. Over the years, the brand has become synonymous with luxury and elegance.
The History of Hermes Orange
The first thing to understand about Hermes’ signature orange color is that it wasn’t always their primary hue. In fact, when Thierry Hermès founded the company in 1837, the brand’s colors were cream and brown. It wasn’t until the 1940s that orange became an important part of their branding.
According to legend, the story goes that in 1949, Robert Dumas (who was then artistic director of Hermès) was traveling through Europe when he noticed an unusual shade of orange on a sunset. Struck by its beauty, he brought back samples to Paris where they were eventually used for Hermès packaging materials.
Since then, Hermes orange has become synonymous with luxury and sophistication. The exact shade used by the company is copyrighted under the name “Orange Hermès”, which means no other company can use it without permission.
The Significance of Orange
So why did Hermes choose orange as their signature color? There are several theories about this.
One theory suggests that orange was chosen because it stands out – it’s a bold and eye-catching color that draws attention to itself. This makes sense considering Hermès’ commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Another theory is that orange represents joy and positivity. In color psychology, orange is associated with happiness, enthusiasm, and warmth. This makes it a fitting choice for a brand that specializes in luxury goods – after all, buying a Hermes product is supposed to be a joyful experience.
The Versatility of Orange
Finally, it’s worth noting that orange is an incredibly versatile color. It can be both warm and cool, depending on the specific shade used. For Hermes, this means that they can use their signature hue in a variety of ways – from subtle accents on their products to bold patterns on their scarves.
In conclusion, Hermes orange has become an iconic part of the brand’s identity. Its history and significance make it more than just a color – it’s a symbol of the luxury and elegance that Hermes is known for. So next time you see an Hermes box or bag in that distinctive shade of orange, remember the story behind it.