HERMÈS 101: GUIDE TO POPULAR LEATHERS
Hermès is world-renowned for its extraordinary handbags, and much of that reputation comes from the exceptional quality of the leathers and skins they use. From classic cowhide to exotic goat skins, each leather has its own unique characteristics, durability, and aesthetic. Here is our guide to the most popular Hermès leathers.
🐮 The Iconic Calf Leathers
Togo
Togo is arguably the most popular Hermès leather. Made from baby calf skin, it features a natural soft-pebbled grain and visible vertical veining. It is highly resistant to scratches, holds its shape well, and is easy to maintain.
Clemence
Similar to Togo but made from adult bull hide, Clemence has a slightly larger and flatter grain. It is a heavier leather that tends to become "slouchy" over time, giving it a relaxed, casual look favored by many collectors.
Epsom
Epsom is a structured, heat-pressed leather with a laminated appearance. It is incredibly durable, waterproof, and holds its shape perfectly. Because the grain is pressed into the leather, it is very resistant to scratches.
Box Calf
The oldest leather in the Hermès library, Box Calf is smooth, polished, and stiff. It develops a beautiful patina over time but is delicate and prone to showing water marks and scratches if not handled with care.
Swift (formerly Gulliver)
Swift leather is known for its fine grain and incredible softness. It absorbs dyes beautifully, resulting in the most vibrant and rich colors. While it can scratch more easily than pebbled leathers, minor marks can often be buffed out by hand.
🐐 Specialty Leathers
Chevre Mysore
Made from mountain goat hide, Chevre Mysore features a small, visible grain. It is lightweight, extremely resilient, and scratch-resistant, making it a premium choice for smaller bags like the Kelly 25 or Constance.
Fjord
Fjord is an adult calf leather with a soft, velvety matte finish and vertical veining. It is completely waterproof and very hardy, though it is noticeably heavier than Togo or Clemence.
Vache Naturelle
This is an unprocessed, untreated leather that is allowed to age naturally. Over time, it develops a unique caramel-toned patina. It is a strong, hardy leather that tells the story of the bag's journeys.
Understanding the nuances of these leathers is key to choosing a bag that fits your style and lifestyle. At Luxury Revision, we take pride in working with these exceptional materials to create timeless pieces for our clients.