When investing in a Hermès bag, the choice of leather is as crucial as selecting the style. Each Hermès leather is unique, with its own set of characteristics that affect durability, texture, and color vibrancy. Understanding these differences helps in selecting a piece that fits seamlessly into your curated collection, adds value as an heirloom, and complements your lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most classic, newer, and highly desirable Hermès leathers, providing styling tips and care advice to help you make an informed decision.

Classic Hermès Leathers

1. Box Calf Leather

One of the oldest and most iconic Hermès leathers, Box Calf is celebrated for its smooth, glossy texture and timeless elegance. This leather is perfect for formal and business settings due to its structured, polished look. Picture a Box Calf Kelly or Constance in Noir (black) or Rouge H (deep red) paired with a tailored suit, pencil skirt, or classic blazer—it adds an instant touch of refinement. For an evening look, a Box Calf bag perfectly complements a little black dress or a sophisticated gown. However, Box Calf is prone to scratches, so it’s best styled in settings where it can be handled with care.

• Care Tip: Store in its dust bag and avoid exposure to water and rough surfaces. Use a soft cloth to buff minor scratches.

Explore our collection of Box Calf Hermès bags here.

2. Chèvre de Coromandel Leather

Chèvre de Coromandel’s subtle iridescence and fine grain make it a versatile option for day-to-night transitions. Its vibrant hues, like Vert Anis (green) and Violet, are perfect for adding a pop of color to neutral outfits. Imagine a Chèvre de Coromandel Birkin paired with a crisp white blouse and denim for a chic, everyday look. For evening events, the leather's slight sheen beautifully complements luxurious fabrics like silk or satin. It’s durable enough for travel or city use, providing both style and resilience.

• Care Tip: Chèvre de Coromandel is low maintenance, but to keep its shine, wipe it down with a dry, lint-free cloth and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

3. Togo Leather

Togo leather's natural pebbled grain and matte finish make it ideal for both casual and semi-formal settings. A Togo Birkin or Kelly in Etoupe (taupe) or Gold can be styled with a cozy cashmere sweater and tailored trousers for a polished yet comfortable look. For a weekend brunch or shopping day, Togo's durability makes it a reliable choice for pairing with smart-casual outfits like a trench coat or a chic jumpsuit. The soft texture adds elegance without being overly formal, making it versatile for various occasions.

• Care Tip: Togo leather is easy to maintain. Simply wipe with a damp cloth to remove spots and use a leather conditioner occasionally to keep it supple.

4. Clemence Leather

Veau Taurillon Clemence, with its semi-matte finish and relaxed look, is perfect for a more laid-back, casual style. Think of pairing a Clemence Evelyn or Picotin with a bohemian dress or a jeans-and-tee combination for a stylish yet effortless vibe. The softness and slouchy structure of Clemence make it ideal for crossbody styles and totes that offer both function and fashion.

• Care Tip: This leather can be susceptible to sagging. Store it properly with stuffing to maintain its shape and avoid overfilling.

5. Swift Leather

Known for its smooth texture and ability to absorb vibrant colors, Swift leather is perfect for those looking to make a bold statement. Bags in this leather, like a Kelly or Constance in Rose Tyrien (bright pink) or Bleu Jean, are best styled with minimalist outfits that let the bag shine. Think monochrome ensembles, such as a sleek black dress or a crisp white suit. Swift bags also work well with colorful or patterned outfits for a playful look, especially for evening events or stylish city outings. Given its susceptibility to scratches, Swift leather is best reserved for occasions where it won’t face heavy wear. Check out examples of Swift leather bags on Madison Avenue Couture.

• Care Tip: Avoid exposure to sharp objects and consider a leather protector to reduce wear. Regularly condition to maintain its soft sheen.

Newer Hermès Leathers

1. Epsom Leather

Epsom leather’s embossed texture and rigid structure make it perfect for a clean, contemporary look. Imagine pairing a Sellier Kelly or Birkin in bold colors like Rouge Casaque (red) or Blue Zanzibar (bright blue) with a tailored suit or a structured coat. Its resistance to scratches and stains makes it an excellent choice for everyday use, whether for a business meeting or a lunch date. Epsom’s structured nature pairs beautifully with both sleek and edgy looks, from classic trench coats to modern, minimalistic outfits. You can explore more on PurseBlog or Madison Avenue Couture.

• Care Tip: Epsom is low-maintenance but may show wear at points of contact. Clean with a soft cloth and avoid overstuffing to retain its shape.

2. Evercolor Leather

Evercolor leather, with its tight grain and satin finish, is both durable and elegant. A bag in Evercolor, such as a Constance or Lindy in Vert Anglais (dark green) or Rouge Piment (chili red), can elevate both casual and semi-formal attire. Pair it with a leather jacket and jeans for a chic daytime look, or a cocktail dress for evening events. Evercolor is a great option for those who want a versatile yet luxurious addition to their wardrobe. For visual examples, check out the Evercolor leather bags on PurseBlog.

• Care Tip: Evercolor is durable but can fade with prolonged exposure to sunlight. Store in a cool, dark place and moisturize with a leather conditioner.

3. Barenia Faubourg Leather

Barenia Faubourg is renowned for developing a rich patina over time, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bag that evolves with its owner. The warm tones of Fauve (golden tan) pair beautifully with earth-toned outfits, like a camel coat or brown leather boots, for a classic look. Barenia Faubourg leather bags are stunning when combined with textures like cashmere, tweed, or suede, creating a harmonious blend of materials. See more examples on luxury platforms such as 1stDibs.

• Care Tip: Barenia Faubourg can darken over time with handling. Clean with a dry cloth and avoid water to prevent blotching.

Most Desirable Hermès Leathers

1. Chèvre Mysore Leather

Chèvre Mysore leather is lightweight, durable, and boasts a fine grain that enhances vibrant colors like Rose Jaipur (pink) and Vert Anis. These bright colors make a Chèvre Mysore Mini Kelly or Constance the perfect accessory to liven up a neutral outfit, like a black dress or beige trench. Alternatively, pair a colorful Chèvre Mysore bag with a contrasting bold outfit for a high-fashion look. Its ability to stand out makes it perfect for collectors who love to make a statement. View some Chevre Mysore examples on 1stDibs.

• Care Tip: Chèvre Mysore is resistant to scratches but should still be kept away from abrasive surfaces. Condition periodically to maintain its sheen.

2. Tadelakt Leather

With its smooth, glossy finish, Tadelakt is best suited for evening or formal wear. A Tadelakt Kelly in Noir (black) or Etoupe is stunning with gowns, cocktail dresses, or even an elegant pantsuit. The glossy surface adds a touch of glamor and sophistication, especially for upscale events where a touch of shine is desired. Due to its sensitivity to water and scratches, Tadelakt bags are best kept for special occasions.

• Care Tip: Avoid water exposure and store in a climate-controlled environment. Use a soft cloth to maintain its shine and avoid using harsh chemicals.

3. Epsom Leather

Epsom's ability to maintain its structure and color over time makes it highly desirable for those who prefer a modern, streamlined style. An Epsom Kelly or Birkin in a striking color like Orange H can be the centerpiece of a minimalist wardrobe. Pair these bags with monochromatic outfits, such as a crisp white suit or a chic all-black ensemble, to emphasize the bag's color and structure. Epsom's sleek finish makes it versatile for both business and casual settings. Examples of Epsom bags are available on PurseBlog and Madison Avenue Couture.

• Care Tip: Keep away from sharp objects and consider using a dust bag for storage. Clean with a gentle leather cleaner to maintain its embossed texture.

For more information on the types and colors of Hermès leathers and to view available bags, visit our Hermès Edit on The Business of Preloved Fashion (BOPF), where we offer a curated selection of preloved Hermès bags, each telling its own unique story.