Hermès is a French luxury goods manufacturer established in 1837 by Thierry Hermès. Initially focused on equestrian gear like saddles and harnesses, the company has since expanded into a wide array of luxury products, including:
Hermès was founded in Paris when Thierry Hermès opened a harness workshop on Rue Bas d'Tremont. His goal was to provide high-quality equestrian equipment to the European nobility. In 1880, his son Charles-Émile Hermès took over the business, expanding the product line and moving the shop to 24 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, where it remains today.
The company's transformation into a luxury brand began with the introduction of their first leather handbags in the early 20th century. In 1922, Émile-Maurice Hermès, Charles-Émile's son, created the first Hermès bag, known as the Sac à dépêches, later renamed the Kelly Bag after Grace Kelly, who famously used one to shield her pregnancy from photographers in 1956.
During the 1950s, Hermès introduced the iconic silk scarf, which quickly became a symbol of luxury fashion. The scarf designs often feature equestrian themes, a nod to the brand's heritage.
In the late 20th century, under the leadership of Jean-Louis Dumas (1978-2006), Hermès expanded its offerings significantly:
Hermès prides itself on craftsmanship, exclusivity, and a dedication to quality over quantity. The production process is slow and meticulous, with many items still being handmade, contributing to the brand's exclusivity and the high cost of its products. Each Hermès item, from a scarf to a watch, is designed to be timeless, appealing to a clientele that values heritage and artisanal quality.
Today, Hermès remains a family-controlled business, with the Dumas family still involved in its management. The company continues to innovate while preserving its traditional methods, introducing new materials like exotic leathers and incorporating modern technology into its production processes.