Hermès originally specialized in horse harnesses before becoming known for handbags, scarves, and other luxury goods.
Thierry Hermès founded the company in Paris in 1837 as a maker of high-quality harnesses and bridles for horse-drawn carriages. His workshop served wealthy customers who valued precise workmanship and durable materials.
As transportation and fashion changed, Hermès broadened its production. The house developed saddlery, bags, belts, gloves, clothing, silk scarves, perfumes, watches, and jewelry. Its equestrian beginnings nevertheless remain visible in its logo, product names, and continued saddlery business.
A common mix-up is to describe Hermès as having started primarily as a handbag maker. The company’s first business was firmly rooted in horse equipment, while the best-known handbags became important much later in the twentieth century.