subject: Hermes Handbags--Centuries of Chic Design [print this page] Hermes Handbags--Centuries of Chic Design
The Hermes (pronounced "air mess") design empire began as a simple saddlery in Paris. Popular throughout the early 1800s for their fine saddles and halters, they quickly developed a reputation for excellence and success that made them renowned worldwide. Their designer Hermes handbags escorted the company into the 21st century, while retaining the timeless and classic appreciation for Old-world charm.
Hermes opened his shop in 1837, but didn't stay in one place very long. After making a name for himself at the Paris Exposition in 1855, he repeated the First in Class win at the 1867 Exposition Universelle. Because his harnesses and dressings were in such high demand, coronations were rescheduled in order to await an original Hermes accessory.
In 1880, Charles-Emile Hermes took over for his father and moved the shop. The business made a move into retail at this time, and Hermes began providing accessories to the world's most elite customers. It was not unusual to ship Hermes products to North Africa, Asia, Russia, the Americas, and all over Europe. During this time, the precursor to the first Hermes handbag was designed, but this one was intended to allow a rider to carry his saddle with him.
In 1951, Robert Dumas-Hermes succeeded Emile-Maurice. Although a relative only by marriage, Dumas-Hermes possessed the passion for fashion that marked the Hermes brand. He brought the duc carriage and horse logo on board, as well as the well-known orange Hermes boxes. Using an opportunity based on a photo in Life magazine, Dumas-Hermes proved his marketing ability early on. A young Grace Kelly, new princess of Monaco, was shot carrying the Hermes purse, and the purse would later be dubbed the Kelly Bag.
In 1970, the company changed hands yet again when Jean Louis Dumas-Hermes took over from his father. The younger man had visions of updating the traditional Hermes name to create modern clothing and accessories for the younger set. With a focus in advertising, the Hermes house of design was strengthened by the young owner's approach to excellence. By this time, women were adorned in Hermes jewelry, their heads and necks graced by the scarf collection, and many sported Kelly Bags on their arms. The clothing and accessories bespoke class, privilege, and luxury.
