My Designers' Closet: Hermes

Hermes

There are few brand names that mean pure luxury like the name Hermes. This French fashion powerhouse creates only the highest quality luxury goods that are worn by celebrities, royalty, and people who have discriminating taste. Hermes handbags are among the best made in the world, and it is that commitment to luxury that has allowed Hermes to thrive since 1837

Frenchman Thierry Hermes began his namesake company in 1837 in Paris, France. He started making saddles, harnesses and other equestrian goods out of fine leather. The company has been run by family since its inception, which may explain the house's extreme dedication to quality and luxury.

At the turn of the century, the company realized that horses were on their way out and began creating luggage, trunks, and bags. Almost overnight, Hermes handbags were born.

Hermes Handbags: Iconic

To fashion insiders, Hermes Handbags are as recognizable as a Picasso painting is recognized by a lover of art. Some popular styles include the Birkin Bag, which was co-designed by actress Jane Birkin, and the Kelly Bag, which was named after actress Grace Kelly.

Today, many celebrities won’t leave home without their Hermes handbags. Young Hollywood fashionista Ashley Olsen is frequently photographed carrying her Birkin Bag, and Gwenyth Paltrow used hers as a diaper bag after the birth of her daughter Apple.

So Many Bags, So Little Time

Birkin and Kelly bags are known for their timeless and elegant design. What most people don’t realize is that these are actually two of the most complex handbags in the world. Not only are they created 100% by hand, but the combinations of size, material, and colors that they are available in is staggering.

Size

Hermes handbags are available in many sizes. For example, the Kelly Bag is available in five sizes ranging from 20cm to 35cm. You can get it in the “Rigide” version which has stitching on the outside, or “Souple” which has a softer feel, inside stitching, and a smaller price tag than the“Rigide.”

Material

In addition to size and style, you'll need to decide if your bag will be made out of smooth leather, goat leather, or an exotic leather such as lizard or crocodile. Within each of these categories there are many different leather choices, each with a different sheen or texture.

Color

As far as colors go, you have the entire spectrum of the rainbow to choose from. Hermes loves to give their clients choices, and at this company a simple “red” or “blue” will not do. If it's red you want, you have the choice of hues such as:

Rouge Hermes
Rouges Vif
Vermillion
Braise

Brique

Each is red, but each has a completely different undertone.

Hardware

Hardware choices are also abundant for Hermes bags. For the Hermes Kelly Bag, 24-karat gold, silver palladium, ruthenium, or guilloche are the choices that you have for the metal that will adorn your bag.

Hermes Bracelet

Bracelet... Original $1,000

Our Price $180.00
Pre-order

Hermes Wallet

Bearn wallet with gusset in violet, goatskin, 7" x 3 1/2" with palladium 'H' tab closure, 5 credit card slots, 2 additional pockets, change purse with zipper. Gusset expands to 3/4"
Original Price $2,100.00
Our Price $199.00
Pre-Order...no later than Feb 25 2010

READY TO SHIP!!!!!

Hermes Bearn Wallet (grey)

Hermes Bearn Wallet (Blue)

SOLD OUT!!!!!!!!!

Hermes Lovely

Hermes Birkin (grey)

Our Price $399.00

Hermes Kelly 32 (Green Apple)

Hermes Kelly 32 (purple)
READY TO SHIP!!!!!!

Long wallet in taupe goatskin, Hermes signature Kelly strap with swivel clasp closure. 12 credit card slots, 2 pockets for bills, central zip purse for change with Kelly lock pull-tab, silver hardware. 8" x 4.5." Great as an evening clutch, too!

Original Price $2,575.00

Our Price $229.00 SOLD OUT!!!!!!