Hermes Leather Guide

With Hermes artisans only making between 3 to 4 bags a week by hand, it makes sense for Hermes to pair that exquisite level of detail with only the best quality leather. When it comes to quality, Hermes spares no expense. But as any discerning luxury buyer knows, leather isn’t just ‘leather’ and Hermes offers a range which all have their own unique qualities. To help match you with the best fit for your desired look or lifestyle, we’ve created this guide to the types of leather you’ll come across most on Bags of Luxury. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us using our WhatsApp number +44 7870 564 937, email info@bagsofluxury.com or submitting a form on a bag that you’re interested in.

Togo
Made from a calf, Togo is a popular leather on Bags of Luxury and for good reason. Togo holds its shape well, it has a good scratch resistance. Many clients enjoy the raised grain but smooth-to-the-touch texture. Togo is lighter than the clemence leather and holds its shape better, however, how rigid you prefer your bag to be is up to you.

32cm Hermes kelly capucine togo example

Swift
Swift has a micro grain and soft-to-touch leather. However, extra care needs to be taken with swift, as it’s more prone to scratching, but minor ones can be rubbed away with just your fingers. Swift replaced Gulliver leather.

25 cm Hermes kelly rose sakura swift example

Epsom
Epsom is a man printed grain which has a slightly laminated look. It is a ridgid leather so maintains the shape of the bag well. It’s lightweight, very easy to clean and more durable in the rain than other leathers.

35cm Hermes vert anglais birkin in epsom leather example

Box calf
For those looking for an Hermes handbag with the smoothest finish, the box calf leather may be your answer with its soft glossy look. It is a strong ridgid durable leather. However, be careful in wet weather as water will mark the leather and scratches are easier to come by.

35cm Hermes Kelly so black box calf leather example

Clemence
For those looking for a relaxed and less rigid look with their Hermes bag, Clemence may be the way to go. Made from baby bull, Hermes started using this leather in the 1980’s and is still popular choice for many today. Similar to the Togo leather, Clemence has a wider & flatter grain and is a slightly softer leather. It does have a very luxurious look.

30cm Hermes rouge garrance birkin clemence leather example

Veau Doblis/Suede
it’s a beautiful soft leather that needs more care from scratching, water and dirt to stay in top condition. It is increasingly popular as Hermes do not make bags in this leather often.

40cm Hermes grizzly blue thalassa birkin suede leather example

Chevre
This Hermes leather comes from goat hide and is extremely resilient against scratches as well as being lightweight, making it suitable for anyone wanting a Hermes bag for resilient regular use.

30cm Hermes blue sapphire birkin chevre leather example

Barenia
This is the orignal saddle leather used at Hermes. It wears extremely well over time.

35cm Hermes flag blue thalassa barenia leather example

Interested in exotic Hermes skins? We also have a guide here.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us using our WhatsApp number +44 7870 564 937, email info@bagsofluxury.com or by submitting a form on a Hermes bag you’re interested in. You can also request the Bags of Luxury stock list here and join our mailing list so you’ll be the first in the know when we have new bags