Hermès

Founded as a harness maker in Paris; known for silk scarves (from 1937) and hand-sewn bags such as the Kelly and Birkin.

Thierry Hermès made harnesses and saddles for the carriages of Paris. When the car replaced the horse his successors turned to luggage, bags and accessories, and the family still runs the company.

The silk scarf, the carré, came in 1937 with designs by artists. The bag of the 1930s became the Kelly after Grace Kelly, and the Birkin of 1984 was designed for Jane Birkin. Hermès workshops in France make the bags by hand, one craftsman sewing a bag from start to finish.

Leather goods carry a stamp with a letter showing the year of manufacture; the scarves have signed designs.

• Fashion and accessories
• Bags and shoes