The history of Hermes Kelly Bag
Kelly bags trace the inspiration behind their origin to 1892 when a bag known as 'Haut a courrioies' was made for holding a saddle. This saw another evolution in 1923 when Ettore Bugatti and Emile-Maurice came together to design a bag for Julie, who was Hermes's wife. The simple and classy creation was designed to fit through a car door without any issues.
In 1928, Emile-Maurice's son-in-law, Robert Dumas designed a bag that would contain important newspapers. He named the bag 'Sac a depeches,' and it was the first real handbag to be made.
The Hermes Sac a depeches became a favorite of many prominent people, including the Duke of Windsor and President John F. Kennedy.
The bag further developed into an elegant bag for females that had a boxy shape and could stand on its own and be fastened with a single hand.
The picture of Grace Kelly lifting the bag in as protection from the paparazzi lights when she got pregnant for Monaco Prince Rainer, her husband made the cover of Life Magazine, which led to the bag being renamed as the Kelly bag.
The history of the Hermes Birkin Bag
This historical journey takes us to the life of stylish and chic Jane Birkin in the late 1960s whose natural beauty, fashion sense, and talent led her to the screens where she acted in several movies, including 'Slogan' of 1969 with co-star Serge Gainsbourg, and 'Wonderwall' of 1968.
Jane Birkin performed a famous duet with Serge Gainsbourg, which was banned in Italy, Spain and the UK radio due to its sexually-explicit nature. Jan Birkin was born out of this scandal. As a class trendsetter in fashion and beauty, Jane was found wearing bangs, attending black-tie events with baskets, and lining her eyes with sex kitten black liners, actions that many young ladies were quick to follow.
Jane Birkin got her name permanently joined with the Hermes name due to a chance encounter in 1981 when she was sat next to Jean-Louis Dumas, the chief executive of Hermes at that time, on a flight from London from Paris.
After a mishap that led to Jane's straw bag falling off the overhead component, Birkin explained to Jean- Louis that she had problems finding a leather weekend that suited her preference. In 1984; three years after that encounter, Jean-Louis created a black leather bag with lots of space specifically for Jane Birkin which embodied Jane Birkin's fashion style: classy and timeless beauty.
The history of Hermès
Thierry Hermes established Hermes in 1837 as a harness workshop where he rendered services to European noblemen at the Grands Boulevards area of Paris.
Thierry Hermès made the best bridles and harnesses for carriage trades and eventually became one of the most popular retailers in saddlery for horses. He even started producing leather bags for horse feeding, saddle housing, and to carry riders' accessories such as whips, boots, and riding hats. So; horses and their riders were Hermes' first customers.
Hermes Products throughout history
Tracing from history down to this moment, Hermes has created amazing stories and an influential past that many fashion houses can only dream of.
To date, Hermes bags remain a testament to the creativity, quality, and brilliance of Hermes fashion house.
Picotin bag
This bag found its inspiration in horses' nosebags allowing them to feed whilst walking. The Picotin was produced in 1900 and is the oldest creation of Hermes. The trapezoid shape offered functionality to riders who needed to carry saddles and other materials.
Evelyne
Evelyne Bertrand, the head of the Hermes Riding Department decided in 1978 to create a leather bag for grooms to place their sponges, brushes etc. These bags were created in an H-shape, consisted of air holes, and bears Evelyne's name.
Birkin bag
After Jane Birkin’s bag fell and spilled all its contents in front of Jean-Louis Dumas in 1981, she complained that she couldn't find a bag that holds all her belongings. In response, Jean-Louis produced the Birkin bag, which was strong, large, and beautiful, and quickly became one of the most famous designed bags in the world.
Bolide bag
Emile Hermes is the creator of the bolide bag, which means meteor. The term also became a name for fast cars in 20th century. In 1923, Emile got a zipper from America and produced the bag for a friend who loved the 'boldie' automobile. This birthed the boldie bag.
Constance bag
In 1959, Catherine Chaillet designed and named this bag after her daughter; Constance. The Constance bag has an adjustable strap that you can hold at the side or wear over your shoulders. It also has a pretty H-shaped fastener to keep things in place.
Jypsiere bag
Jean-Paul Gaultier is the creator of this bag that he made to support his show in 2008. Jean-Paul drew inspiration from Hermes riding bags and created a bag that tells of nature and hunting.
Kelly bag
This bag was produced in the 1930s but renamed as the Kelly when it was used as a shield from paparazzi lights when she was pregnant. A perfect handbag with a clasp that Hermes is renowned for.
Lindy bag
Frederic Vidal designed this unique foldable bag with small handles, and the bag was a major success story. To open the bag, you need to hold the Hermes saddle rivet with your index finger and thumb.
Paris-Bombay bag
This bag was produced in 2008 and converted from a doctor's bag to a modern bag with large sides and long fine handles.
Plume bag
This bag finds its inspiration in the 1920s, and it featured a soft unlined leather, which was amongst the first of that kind produced by Hermes. The bag is produced inside-out and then turned after production to display an attractive bag for the ladies.
Sac a depeches
This bag is a satchel for men which was created in 1928 for men to carry important documents.
Sac a depeches, Metta Catharina
In the 1970s, the English marine archeology society discovered Frau Metta Catharina ship, which sunk in 1786, and found rolls of pristine leathers inside. Hermes bought some of this leather in 1993, with which he produced this particular Sac a depeches that sported emblems and beautiful designs.
Sac-Mallette bag This overnight bag came to be during the Renaissance and has seen several adjustments. The bag first had a cord for fastening before a manufacturer from Paris added a lockable clasp made of iron to the bag, two handles and a base allowing it to stand. This birthed the Mallette bag in the 1920’s.
Trim bag
This bag used to be known as a mini-picnic kit which was filled with hay and put around the neck of horses. In 1958, Hermes revamped the bag into a ladies’ holdall changing the original hook into a belt buckle.
Verrou clutch
In 1938, the Verron clutch came to life with a silver bolt for closing it and over time, the clutch is made with silver and palladium.
Hermes known as a financial investment
Hermes bags continually appreciate in price as soon as you leave the store but as with any investments, success depends on timing, scarcity of the style, condition, age of the bag and the purchase price. A red crocodile skin Birkin bag made history as the most expensive handbag because it was sold at 120,000 pounds at an auction.
The beauty of Hermes Birkin bags is that they are made to last and their chic and classy nature doesn't fade over time. You are assured of a profit anytime you want to sell your Hermes bag. The best way to double your profit is to purchase limited-edition bags because they won't be everywhere in the market.
When purchasing a Hermes bag, consider your preference alongside aesthetics, market value, the rarity of the product, and a projected appreciation pattern.
Of all the bags touted to be investment bags, Hermes is leading the market. It has continued to allure customers with collections that are largely anticipated for many years, and they come in a few pieces. Every new collection of Hermes is unique, especially the craftsmanship, style, and color.
While it is rewarding to buy shares in a good company, the reward, and feeling that comes with owning a Hermes bag as an investment isn't common. When you have a beautiful Hermes bag in your name, you can admire, use, and treasure the bag until you let it go.
Handbags were the hottest investment for the rich last year (cnbc.com) only proves it.
How do I know I'm buying a genuine Hermes bag?
It is a criminal offense to sell a fake Hermes bag, but an authenticity guide will give you insights and help you to tell an authentic Hermes bag. LB have been trading for over 9 years and we have a flawless reputation. We take extensive measures to ensure that each Hermes bags or accessory for sale is 100% authentic and also in pristine condition. We have a large number of loyal customers and we are not prepared to see our reputation blemished in any way. We are 100% committed to only offering the absolute best in quality and service when it comes to luxury goods. Our terms and conditions are there to protect a buyer and clearly state your legal position should there be any issue with your bag.
How to buy your first Hermes bag
If you are purchasing a Hermes bag for the first time, you are about to make a major decision. Purchasing your first bag has several implications for you. First of all, you become a member of a global elite group that loves luxury and style!
A standard Hermes Kelly or Birkin bag is a great place to begin your purchase. Since the foundation of Hermes in 1837, the brand has collated a lot of history and tradition, with a touch of trend.
A tender caramel or chic black Kelly or Birkin is a classy choice that is perfect for day or night, regardless of your destination.
Remember that the value of limited Hermes handbags soars years after their creation. The 2011 Hermes 'So Black' collection is a perfect example of a famous limited-edition collection that has seen an exponential rise in value over the years especially as Hermes doesn't plan on making these bags again, so the value can only continue to rise.
The Ultimate Hermes Handbag Checklist
The Hermes bag you purchase must be authentic, and here is how to know an authentic one.
1. Authenticity
• An unmistakably authentic shape and the quality
• The bag stands properly on four feet
• The stitching has perfect spacing and is slanted in the same direction
• Gilt markings lie under the flap of the front face
• Embossed markings lay on a closure strap bearing the manufacture year
• The bag should have a clotchette lock with two keys
• The clotchette comes from a single piece of leather
• Locate the Hermes accent on the lock, embossing, and gilt
• Each new bag comes with packaging & accessories (list below).
2. Condition
A new and authentic Hermes bag should be in perfect condition. The fashion house doesn't release imperfect bags so any sign of imperfection is a red flag that announces a fake bag.
3. Color Color consideration is important when you are purchasing a Hermes bag. The best colors are the neutral ones, especially those limited-edition shades.
However, if you love bright colors, opt for blue, red, or the orange 'H' Hermes are also great first options.
4. Leather/Skin
Hermes bags come in several durable pieces of leather, but some options are better than others.
Epsom leather has man-made grains and is famous because it is highly water-resistant and maintains the shape of your Hermes bag properly. Togo, a cowhide that has a natural grain is the most sought-after leather for Hermes bags. Lizard and Ostrich skins are hard to come by, so if you find in these leather- its definitely worth the investment.
5. Accessories and Packaging
Every new Hermes bag comes in an orange box designed with a ribbon. The bag also comes with the following accessories.
A Clochette and two keys, A Hermes herringbone cloth bag, Strap for Kelly bags, Transparent stickers on hardware, A care card for exotic skin/leather, Hermes raincoat for protection from the elements
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Authentic Hermes Bag
Exotic Skin or Leather
Hermes will always use the best leather and exotic skin when producing their bags. Unlike other products made of leather, you won't find a hang tag.
The bag's shape is also another tell-tale sign that the bag is authentic. An authentic bag will have perfect symmetry and proportion when standing on its feet. The Hermes bag should have soft and smooth skin, unless if the bag is made of crocodile skin.
Stitching
Hermes bags are all premium quality hand-stitched with a slanted design that is of the same color as the bag's leather. The slanted stitches are tight, spaced evenly, and point towards the same direction. However, the stitching shouldn't look too perfect because that could mean it was made by a machine.
Hardware
The hardware on all Hermes bags, including the keys, locks, feet studs, and buckles should be made from gold or palladium (never silver as this will tarnish).
Embossed Markings You will always find the year of manufacture and the creator's ID stamped on the lower part of the right belt. However, Hermes bags produced from 2011 have embossed markings on the two belts.
Lock and Key
Every Hermes bag comes with a lock that has Hermes engraved at the bottom, and a key that has a matching number. The lock and key must be sturdy, and the ‘è’ should be accentuated if it is authentic.
Gilt
Under the flap of the front face, you will find this written 'Hermès Paris, Made in France.' Look for the accentuated è for authenticity. Also, look for the markings that differentiate the skins.
Zipper
The internal zipper tag is always parallel to the zipper hardware.
Feet
Ensure that your bag can stand upright on its feet without bending or tilting to one side. The four feet that come with your Hermes bag should have even spacing and show no signs of wear and tear.
Dust Bag
Bags produced before 2007 will come with orange-colored flannel dust bags. However, bags created after 2007 will come in light brown Herringbone and beige.
Certificates
Besides exotic skins that come along with CITES paper certificates, you will never find a Hermes bag with plastic cards or paper tag certificates.
How to Avoid Purchasing a Fake Hermes Bag?
The guide above helps identify an Authentic Hermes, so its only fare we advise how to spot a fake.
While we all know that the Hermes brand is exclusive, original, and premium, the fakers are posing a challenge for the brand. Reports hold that these fake bags cost Hermes €6 billion every year, and between 30,000 and 40,000 jobs. These fake bags are often linked to drugs and organized criminal activities.
If you cannot wait until your turn to own the limited brand amid growing demand and a long, selective waiting list, your best bet is to patronize a genuine piece from someone who wishes to resell their luxury piece.
While we understand the desire to own a luxury Hermes bag as soon as possible, we strictly advise that you tread carefully, and avoid buying a handbag from an online platform that doesn't have a verifiable address. eBay is one of such platforms to avoid when seeking a Hermes bag.
Here are some questions you must ask and answer, to tell whether or not a Hermes bag is fake or real: Observe the Packaging: Did you find an authenticity card inside your packaging? Hermes never places authenticity cards in their bags. Instead, exotic skin bags come with a CITES certificate.
The signature package for Hermes bags is orange with a brown drawstring, and this has been the official package since WWII. Hermes has 188 different sizes of this orange box.
Examine the logo on your packaging. The original logo has a double circle around the man and a horse. It should be finely detailed and not blurred. Also, there should be a double line under the horse.
Hermes Leather Check: A single bag is produced by the hands of an expert Hermes craftsman in 2 to 4 days, so the quality is unquestionable.
Does the bag have evenly spaced feet?
Is the leather rigid enough to hold the original shape for the long haul? Several leather types will behave differently, so check this out. For example, Clemence leather is expected to be softer than other leather types.
Does the bag bulge in some areas?
Do the insides of the bag look as good as the outside?
Observe the Stitching: All the stitches won't be perfectly even because they are made by and you cannot expect a perfect rhythm, even though they are made by expert artisans. If the stitch looks too perfect, then it might be industrially made.
Even as Hermes experts carefully create these bags, you will find a slight slant to all their stitches, and these slants tilt towards the same direction. A perfectly even stitch that doesn't slant is a sign of a fake Hermes bag.
The zippers inside the bag should be horizontally placed against the zip line.
Hardware Details: Your hardware should have a sharp appearance and a uniform weight. It is best to compare the engravings with a real Hermes at this stage, but if you can't, check whether the 'HERMÈS- PARIS' engraving is delicate and fine.
Ensure that the letter 'e' is accented like this 'è'.
Hermes hardware will never come in silver or even plastic. The bags only use palladium or premium gold. Check if the hardware feels cold when it isn't under sunlight.
An original toggle should run smoothly.
Pay attention to Markings: Hermes has made several tweaks to its markings since 2016, and it is crucial to know these changes.
Does the Hermes stamp sit in the right position? The original stamp sits under the flap, near the stitching that reads 'Hermès Paris Made in France'. The stamp should be the same color as the hardware and clear.
Observe the right closure stamp. You should find a blind stamp that identifies the craftsman who stitched the bag, and the year it was made. Since 2016, the year stamp has been moved to X from T, and you can now find the letters on the back left end inside the bag. You also won't find a shape surrounding the year stamp in recent versions.
It is crucial to note that vintage Hermes bags produced before 1970 don't sport any year stamp or shape. The bags produced between 1971 and 1996 had circles surrounding the letters. Hermes bags produced between 1997 and 2015 have a square surrounding the year stamp.
Observe the Clochette Carefully: The clochette is a signature part of a Hermes bag that you shouldn't overlook or treat lightly.
Is your bag made from two different types of leather? Hermes will never do that.
Are your keys wide or tiny? Hermes handbags come with tall, wide keys that have a healthy amount of weight.
Do you have two keys?
Is there a groove that features a Hermes engraving where you place your key into the lock? Then, the bag is original.
Note that the lock and keys should both have the matching 'Hermes' engraving.
A Guide to Hermes Leather
Seeing as Hermes bags are made by the hands of talented artisans who produce about 3 to 4 bags weekly, it is safe to expect quality leather and prime attention to detail. Hermes bags are quality personified, and the fashion house doesn't spare any effort or expense in this regard.
One lesson a luxury shopper is quick to learn is that there is no such thing as just leather, because different types of leather have their different looks, feel, and quality. Here is a list of some leathers you should get familiar with.
Barenia
The original saddle leather and wears well over time.
Box calf
This has one of the smoothest finishes amongst all Hermes handbags. It sports a glossy look and rigid durability that is admirable. When exposed to water, box calf leather might get marked and become prone to scratches.
Clemence
A less rigid look; made from baby bull since the 1980’s and continues to be popular today. Clemence has several similarities with the Togo leather, except that it is slightly softer, and has a flatter and wider grain.
Chevre This leather is very resistant to scratches and is equally lightweight. The leather is made from goat hide and is suitable for regular use without scratches and wears.
Epsom
Epsom is a rigid leather and man-made printed grain that looks like it was laminated. The rigid leather ensures that the bag shapes well. The leather is light, easy to clean, and copes better with exposure to rain than others.
Swift
Swift is a replacement of Gulliver leather, feels soft, has micro grains, and needs a lot of extra care. This leather scratches easily, but you can also erase simple scratches by rubbing them with your fingers
Togo
Togo is a famous calf leather that is used to make the best of luxury bags. Resistant to scratch, maintains the bag shape properly, and is lightweight, even lighter than the Clemence leather.
Veau Doblis or Suede
This leather isn’t made too often. It is a beautiful soft leather that needs much care to prevent scratching and protection from exposure.
How To Take Care Of Your Hermes Bag
Your Hermes bag deserves complete care, attention, and nurturing. The manner you store your luxury Hermes bag will go a long way to decide how long it lasts.
Let us consider some tips to help you care for your Hermes bag the right way:
Cleaning
Hermes bags have specialized spa and repair shops where an experienced artisan cares for your bag and repairs any flaws and don't ever use a cleaning agent on your Hermes bag
Light
Protect your Hermes bag from direct sun to avoid fading. Also, avoid handing the leather out to dry because it can lead to cracks.
Storage
Always store your bag in the storage bag it came with when you purchased it. You can also place it in the box and surround it with its protective tissues for extra protection.
Stuff your bag always to maintain its shape. Also, if your Hermes handbag is sitting in storage for a long time, take it out periodically to expose the material to the air.
Temperature Avoid exposing your bag to extreme heat or cold because the temperature can destroy your leather. Instead, keep your bag at room temperature to avoid wrinkles.
Twillys
The thin scarves that come with Hermes bags for you to wrap around the handles are called 'Twillys,' and they protect the handles of your bag. It is important to use them, especially for bags made from ostrich skin because their handles are more prone to discoloration.
Water
Protect your bag from rain/water. Always use the Hermes raincoat for your bag, even if you have the largely-water resistant Epsom leather bag.
Be extremely careful if you use a croc bag because exposure to water can cause it to damage your skin.
A Guide to Hermes Exotic Skins
One thing that makes Hermes' luxurious handbags famous for ages is the premium range of leathers and exotic skins that the bags are made from. These skins are sourced from several countries and continents, including Australia and Zimbabwe. Here is a guide to help you discover the perfect skin for your Hermes handbag.
Alligator
Hermes source the alligator skin from Florida, U.S, and it has a durable and attractive skin with patterned scales. Alligator bags can be shiny or matt.
A bag made from alligator skin has a square symbol near the embossed Hermes logo. It also has a very visible umbilical mark which is a sign of its authenticity. If you’re looking for a collectors’ item, then one of the best alligator Hermes bags is the Blue Saint Kelly bag made from matt alligator skin with large scales.
Crocodile
Crocodile is by far the most sought-after. The skin is attractive, vibrant, and sports massive scales that call out beautifully to you. Crocodile skin is durable and looks like whatever location it is sourced from. A Hermes crocodile handbag is either Niloticus or Porosus in style and in either in Matt or shiny.
A sign of authenticity is the 'signature' marking that sits next to the Hermes logo embossment. You will find this '^' mark to identify Porosus, and '••' mark for Niloticus. The major difference between Porosus and Niloticus skin is that Porousus has symmetrically patterned skin, while Niloticus has bigger scales.
Lizard
Lizard is a rare skin for Hermes, but when used; is a smart investment option. You can identify lizard skin by the '-' sign lying next to the embossed Hermes logo. Lizard skin also features small scales that give it an attractive glossy finish but is delicate so needs a lot of attention to prevent from peeling and drying. Ostrich
Ostrich has many pores that create a look similar to polka dots, making it a favorite for many ladies. A unique ostrich bag that remains a gem through the years is vintage Kelly Rouge that aims straight for the heart with its beautiful and rich color. The best way to describe this bag's shade is passionate, brooding, and full of emotion. The bag was produced in 1990, which leads to its rarity and makes it a great option for an investment bag.
For all exotic skin Hermes bags, please remember the CITES certificate that should always come with your bag for security and authenticity purposes, especially when you travel overseas otherwise it could be confiscated should you travel without the correct documentation.
CITES certificate for Hermes exotic skin bags
A CITES certificate is a must-carry when you are traveling across countries with your Hermes bag.
CITES means Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild fauna and flora.
CITES covers some endangered species and classifies them into three groups based on the severity of threat the species face. Several restrictions are in place, depending on the skin or leather, especially as it concerns the importation and exportation of such bags.
You must always ask for your CITES certificate when you purchase Hermes bags. You need the CITES certificate when traveling because customs officers will always ask you to prove that your bag wasn't made from endangered species.
Your CITES certificate is the only proof that your bag isn't made from endangered species. If you can't provide the certificate, your lovely Hermes bag will be confiscated.
If you are exporting a Hermes bag outside the EU or among EU states, apply for an Export CITES certificate that covers such movements. If you live in the UK, you can apply for CITES with DEFRA.
The CITES certificate you get when you purchase a Hermes exotic skin bag is not enough documentation if you want to export the bag. You must get an export CITES which must contain your information and the receiver's information, to avoid confiscation.
CITES certificate is compulsory for Hermes bags and accessories made with Alligator, Crocodile, and Lizard skins. However, you don't need CITES for an Ostrich skin because Hermes use Ostrich from South Africa.
The Hermes Horseshoe and the Stamp of Authenticity
Getting a Hermes handbag is no walk in the park, as many lovers of luxury bags know. Even the biggest celebrities have to queue up on Hermes' waiting list to get a luxury Kelly, Constance, or Birkin handbag. The exclusive and prestigious nature of these bags cannot be argued and whilst these luxury bags are rare, do you know that Hermes has some even rarer bags that you might never see twice? Yes, Hermes is sometimes known to produce custom made bespoke bags on special occasions for clients. These customized bags are created to fit the taste and preference of the client. They come with a Horseshoe stamp close to the embossed Hermes engraving as a sign of their authenticity.
Once or twice every year, Hermes allows few clients to create a Hermes handbag according to their tastes. These bags are often called Horseshoe bags, and they are the handyworks of expert designers who follow the specification of privileged clientele to create these bags?
The bags have a customized personal style that makes people eager for the opportunity to lay their hands on one. The only thing that these Horseshoe bags have in common is the signature horseshoe stamp that stands out from other bags and identifies them as custom products. The bags are created with such expertise and uniqueness, allowing the value of the bags can only increase as time passes.
We hope that these tips help you to spot a real from fake Hermes handbags. It is advisable to go with an expert if you don't know much about the bag, to avoid mistakes.
Promises of a Safe Hermes Delivery Worldwide
It is a dream come true to purchase your own Hermes bag and become one of the few persons in the world who live this dream. It is a decision that is never taken lightly and a quality investment.
One step we take seriously is the delivery process for your handcrafted Hermes bag. After it leaves the hands of expert artisans, your Hermes bag or accessory must get delivered to you in perfect condition.
First of all, we carefully wrap your Hermes bag and place the contents carefully in the Hermes box to ensure that they are intact and reach you in pristine condition.
It is important to note that delivery processes and costs might differ based on the specific Hermes bag your purchase. We will always provide honest and transparent information about the shipping costs to different countries.
Also, note that tax charges and import duties are accrued to the purchasing party and not us. We will, however, notify you of all possible charges early on, so that you know what to expect from the delivery of your Hermes handbag.
If you live outside the European Union and you purchase a Crocodile, Lizard, or Alligator skin bag, we will secure a CITES export license to ensure a hassle-free delivery to you. We will attach the CITES certificate to prevent your bag from confiscated by customs officers.
We will take all legal, official, and professional steps to ensure that your Hermes bag arrives in perfect condition, with the right packaging, and at the real delivery cost.
Please note that the CITES certificate takes 10 working days for registration and processing. We will factor in this time while processing your delivery, so your patience is expected and appreciated.
We will only dispatch you Hermes delivery after your funds have been paid and cleared.