Who founded Hermès in Paris in 1837?

Thierry Hermès founded Hermès in Paris in 1837.

Born in Krefeld, Germany, Thierry Hermès moved to France and established a workshop making harnesses and bridles for horses. The business originally served riders and carriage owners, rather than producing the fashion accessories for which Hermès is now best known.

The company’s early success came from its reputation for finely made equestrian equipment. Later generations expanded Hermès into leather goods, luggage, silk scarves, clothing, perfumes, watches, and other luxury products. This gradual development explains why equestrian imagery remains central to the brand’s identity.

Thierry Hermès is sometimes confused with later family leaders, especially Émile Hermès and Jean-Louis Dumas. Émile Hermès helped guide the company during its expansion in the early twentieth century, while Jean-Louis Dumas led Hermès much later. Neither founded the original workshop.