Hermès Brand Story: How an Orphan Built the World’s Most Luxurious Brand

Few brands embody timeless luxury like Hermès. What began as a humble harness workshop in 1837 has evolved into one of the world’s most exclusive fashion houses. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship, limited production, and refined elegance, Hermès continues to set the gold standard in the luxury industry.

The Humble Beginnings

Hermès was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès, a leatherworker of German-French descent. He opened a workshop in the Grands Boulevards quarter of Paris, producing high-quality harnesses and bridles for horse-drawn carriages. His commitment to artisanal excellence quickly won the admiration of the European aristocracy. By using the finest leathers and perfecting stitching techniques, Hermès became a favored name among noblemen and royal stables.

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The Evolution of Hermès

As modes of transportation shifted in the early 20th century, so did the brand’s offerings. Under Thierry’s son, Charles-Émile Hermès, the business moved to 24 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré—a location that remains the brand’s iconic flagship store even today. In 1900, Hermès introduced the Haut à courroies bag to help riders carry their saddles and boots.

The transformation from equestrian equipment to fashion began in earnest under Émile-Maurice Hermès, Thierry’s grandson. In 1922, he introduced the brand’s first leather handbag, following a request from his wife. In 1935, the Sac à dépêches was launched, which would later become world-renowned as the Kelly Bag, after actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly famously used it to shield her baby bump from paparazzi.

In 1937, Hermès debuted its first silk scarf, or carré, printed with intricate, hand-drawn artwork. These scarves soon became symbols of sophistication and were worn by icons such as Jacqueline Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn. In 1951, Hermès entered the world of fragrance, further diversifying its product portfolio.

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Iconic Creations & Global Expansion

Hermès continued to innovate while preserving its artisanal values. In 1978, Jean-Louis Dumas, the great-great-grandson of Thierry Hermès, took over the business. Under his leadership, Hermès expanded globally and reinvigorated its identity. In 1984, he introduced the Birkin Bag—named after British actress Jane Birkin. This leather tote, born from a chance encounter between Birkin and Dumas on a flight, became a cultural phenomenon known for its scarcity, craftsmanship, and five-figure price tags.

Despite rising demand, Hermès resisted the pressure to mass-produce. Each Birkin and Kelly bag is handmade by a single artisan in France, taking between 15 to 24 hours to complete. The brand has maintained this meticulous production standard across its categories—from silk and leather goods to watches and home decor.

Hermès also ventured into ready-to-wear fashion in the late 20th century and made key hires such as Jean-Paul Gaultier, who served as artistic director from 2003 to 2010. The brand’s creative direction remained bold yet rooted in heritage, setting it apart in an increasingly crowded luxury market.

The Modern Luxury Giant

Today, Hermès is a $16.22 billion (USD) empire, employing over 25,000 people and operating more than 300 stores globally. Despite its growth, it remains family-controlled, with Axel Dumas, a sixth-generation descendant of Thierry Hermès, serving as Executive Chairman, and Pierre-Alexis Dumas as Artistic Director.

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Hermès continues to embody the highest standards of slow luxury, where products are not only rare but made with time, intention, and unmatched expertise. Its refusal to compromise on craftsmanship or follow seasonal fads has made it a beacon of permanence in a fast-paced industry.

In an era of instant gratification, Hermès remains a powerful reminder that true luxury is not about quantity, but quality, heritage, and soul. Every product is a story, and at Hermès, that story begins with the hands of a master artisan.

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