Hermès began in Paris with a focus on high-quality saddles, harnesses, and other equestrian items for European nobility. Founded by Thierry Hermès, the company quickly built a reputation for impeccable craftsmanship and luxury.

• 1837: Hermès opens in Paris, making harnesses and saddles.
• Early 1900s: Hermès starts offering leather bags to carry saddles, leading to its entry into the handbag market.
• 1920s: The brand starts expanding, eventually becoming known for not just leather goods but luxury clothing and accessories.

First Steps Into Handbags: A Bold Expansion

In the early 1900s, Hermès introduced handbags as a convenient way to carry personal items. This was a significant shift, as handbags had previously been considered functional rather than luxurious.

• 1922: The first Hermès handbag was introduced when Emile-Maurice Hermès, the founder’s grandson, created a handbag for his wife, marking Hermès’s official entry into luxury handbags.
• 1935: The Sac à Dépêches (now known as the Kelly bag) was launched, cementing Hermès as a top luxury handbag brand.

Crafting the Hermès Legacy: What Makes a Hermès Bag Special?

Hermès handbags are handmade by expert artisans using only the highest quality materials. It can take up to 18 hours to create one handbag, and each piece is treated with exceptional care, ensuring that it meets the brand’s rigorous standards.

• Exceptional Craftsmanship: Hermès artisans undergo years of training to perfect their skills, ensuring each bag is meticulously crafted.
• High-Quality Materials: The leather, exotic skins, and hardware used are carefully selected, making each bag a unique piece.
• Limited Production: Hermès limits the number of bags made each year, adding to their exclusivity and increasing their value over time.

Famous Hermès Handbags: A Journey of Iconic Designs

Hermès handbags have become symbols of luxury and exclusivity, and some models are instantly recognizable worldwide. Here are a few of the most iconic bags that made Hermès a household name:

• The Kelly Bag: Named after Grace Kelly, this elegant bag features a structured design and a signature lock.
• The Birkin Bag: Created for actress Jane Birkin, it is perhaps the most famous handbag globally, known for its practicality and style.
• The Constance Bag: Known for its sleek and timeless design, with a distinctive H clasp that adds a touch of elegance.

The Role of Celebrities and Pop Culture in Hermès’ Success

From royalty like Princess Grace Kelly to modern-day stars like Victoria Beckham, celebrities have played a big role in making Hermès handbags desirable. Their presence in pop culture and the media has only added to their prestige.

Why Hermès Handbags Are Timeless Investments

An Hermès handbag isn’t just a fashion accessory; it’s also an investment. Thanks to their limited availability, quality craftsmanship, and demand, Hermès bags often retain or even increase in value over time.

To explore our collection of Hermès handbags, visit Le Temps. Experience the luxury and history behind each piece with our expert consultants.

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