[Archived version]HERMESHow to choose colors and materials | Buyer explanation of the classics you won't regret
目次
「HERMESThere are so many colors, materials, and types that I don't know what to choose.''I'm sure many people have this problem.
In conclusion, beginners should first choose from the three standard colors (Etoupe, Black, and Gold) and the three easy-to-handle materials (Togo, Epson, and Clemence), and you won't regret it. In this article:HERMESWe will provide easy-to-understand explanations from the perspective of a buyer at a vintage specialty store in Ginza, from the characteristics of colors and materials to recommended combinations and how to choose items for each occasion.
You may also want to read:[Professional selection] FirstHERMESComplete guide | How to choose without regrets
HERMES3 standard colors | How to choose a color you won't regret
「100種類以上」とも言われるHERMEScolor. There are a lot of attractive choices, but when it comes to buying one for the first time, it's natural to wonder, "Which color should I choose? I won't regret it." In such a case, you can rest assured by choosing from the three standard colors that are easy to match with any coordination.
| color | Color | Features |
|---|---|---|
| エトゥープ（Étoupe） | Warm beige with a hint of gray | It blends easily into Japanese skin and is suitable for any season or occasion.迷ったらまずこの色がおすすめです |
| Black (Noir) | deep black | It is a versatile color that goes well with any coordination. Can be used for everything from ceremonial occasions to everyday use. |
| Gold | 温かみのあるキャメル | HERMESらしい上品な温かみがあります。 The more you use it, the deeper the color will become. |
Bright rouge and blue colors are also attractive, but they tend to be limited in coordination. By incorporating unique colors in the second and subsequent pieces, the range of your collection will naturally expand.
You may also want to read:HERMESThe charm of the royal color “black”
[Buyer Kougen comment]
"I often get asked, 'Which color is the least likely to regret?' My answer is without hesitation Etoupe. It goes well with everything, spring, summer, autumn and winter, casual and formal. But to be honest, black is also hard to give up. If you are in doubt, I recommend that you look at Etoupe and black side by side first."
HERMES3 popular materials | Differences between Togo, Epson, and Clemence
“Even if it is the same model, the impression will be completely different if the leather is different.”HERMESThis is a profound choice, and it can also be a source of concern. If you are having trouble choosing a material, we recommend choosing from three materials that are durable and easy to use on a daily basis.
| Material name | Features | strength against scratches | For people like this |
|---|---|---|---|
| Togo | Cowhide leather has a soft grain (surface irregularities) that makes scratches less noticeable. | ◎ | Suitable for first-time users and those who want to use it on a daily basis |
| Epson | Cowhide leather is embossed for firmness and does not lose its shape. | ◎ | Suitable for business users and those who value lightness. |
| Clemence | A soft cowhide leather with a large grain.Picotinに多く使われています | ○ | Suitable for casual wear and those who like a loose texture. |
There are materials for advanced users such as swift and box calf, but they are easily scratched and require careful handling. We recommend that you first get used to the three materials above and then try the second one.
You may also want to read:[Archived version]HERMES20 glossary selections | Buyer explanation of the basics that beginners need to know
[Buyer Kougen comment]
``One of the most common questions we receive about materials is ``Which is better, Togo or Epson?'' We recommend Togo for those who like soft textures, and Epson for those who are concerned about losing their shape or who use them for business a lot.Both are durable and can be used on a daily basis without worrying.
HERMESColor x Material | 5 Recommended Combinations
Now that you know the characteristics of colors and materials, you may be wondering how to combine them. We will introduce popular combinations that have a large circulation in the vintage market and have been used for a long time.
| color | material | Recommended points | Compatible model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Etoup | Togo | HERMESを代表する定番コンビです。 Goes well with any coordination | Birkin・Kelly |
| black | epson | A combination that combines neatness and practicality. | Birkin・Garden party |
| gold | Togo | HERMESIt's a warm combination.経年変化も美しく楽しめます | Birkin・Bolide |
| Etoup | Clemence | Picotinでよく見られる組み合わせです。 Perfect for casual everyday use | Picotin |
| black | box calf | The more you use it, the more lustrous it becomes, giving it a unique vintage appeal. | Kelly |
Standard combinations have a large circulation in the vintage market, and it is easy to find one in relatively good condition. In recent yearsHERMESPrices continue to rise, and used market prices are also on the rise, so if you have any concerns, we recommend that you contact us as soon as possible.
[Buyer Kougen comment]
“Etoup x Togo’sBirkinis one of the most frequently asked combinations in the vintage market. It is in good condition and the price is relatively affordable. I think it's a sure-fire choice as your first book."
By scene｜HERMESHow to choose the color and material of
“Which combination will suit me?” The final deciding factor is to count backwards based on the situations in which you would normally use it. We will show you how to choose one that suits your lifestyle.
For those who primarily commute to work or for business purposes
If you're going to use it for your daily commute, it's important to choose a material that won't lose its shape and is resistant to scratches.
- Recommended colors: Standard colors in dark tones such as black and etupe are easy to use for a long time.
- Recommended material: Epson is embossed so it doesn't lose its shape and is lightweight, making it suitable for commuting.
- Recommended model:Garden party(A4 size compatible)Bolide(stands on its own and does not lose its shape) is popular
For those who mainly use it for holidays and casual use
If you're mainly going out on the weekend or for lunch, a soft and comfortable material will fit you well.
- Recommended colors: You can also enjoy colors that will accent your coordination, such as gold and rouge tomato (red).
- Recommended material: Togo Clemence has a soft and natural flavor that goes well with casual styles.
- Recommended model:PicotinIt is easy to put your luggage in and is popular among people with children.
You may also want to read:[Professional selection] FirstHERMESComplete guide | How to choose without regrets
[Buyer Kougen comment]
``From those who have children,Picotin"I'm worried about the product getting scratched."PicotinClemence, which is often used for leather, has deep grains, so small scratches can easily be hidden by the grains. This is a combination that I would definitely recommend for those who are raising children.”
You can find vintageHERMEScolor and material
Isn't it the fun of vintage to be able to come across discontinued colors and rare materials that are not available at regular stores? Here, we will introduce the charms that can only be found in the vintage market.
Once-in-a-lifetime chance with discontinued colors
HERMESreleases new colors every season, while discontinuing old colors. Discontinued colors will never be available new again. Examples of colors that can only be found at vintage markets include:
- Blue Jean: A refreshing blue reminiscent of denim. Colors different from current colors are popular.
- Fuchsia: A bright pink-purple. Very popular among vintage enthusiasts
Materials that allow you to enjoy changes over time
The more you use box calf, the more it becomes shiny and the original depth of the leather comes out. oldKellyYaBirkinIt is made of many materials, and has a beauty that cannot be found in new products.
You may also want to read:[2026 latest]HERMESWhat is the impact of the price revision? Why now is the time to choose vintage
[Buyer Kougen comment]
``Vintage box calf''KellyMany customers are impressed by the beauty of its luster when they hold it for the first time. This is a material that is hard to come across in new products. The best part of vintage is being able to enjoy encounters with items that are not available in regular stores.''
HERMESFrequently asked questions about colors and materials
Q. HERMESHow many colors are there?
A. It is said that there are over 100 types. New colors appear every season, and some colors are discontinued. For beginners, we recommend starting with the three classic colors: etupe, black, and gold.
Q. Which color is recommended for beginners?
A. For first-timers, we recommend Etoup. It can be matched with a wide range of styles regardless of the season or occasion. Black and gold are also classic colors that are easy to use for a long time.
Q. What is the difference between Togo and Epson?
A. Togo is cowhide with a soft grain that makes scratches less noticeable, and Epson is embossed cowhide that has firmness and doesn't lose its shape. If you like soft texture, Togo is suitable, and if you value neatness, Epson is suitable.
Q. How should I combine colors and materials?
A. There are three popular combinations for beginners: Etoup x Togo, Black x Epson, and Gold x Togo. All of them can be used for a long time without getting tired of them.
Q. Even on a rainy dayHERMESのバッグは使えますか？
A. Epson is a relatively moisture-resistant material. However, since it is a leather product, if it gets wet, we recommend wiping it off with a dry cloth as soon as possible.大雨の日は避けるほうが安心です。
Q. 廃番カラーはどこで探せますか？
A. Since it is not available at official stores, it is realistic to look for it on the vintage/second-hand market. H3VINTAGE is available at our physical store in Ginza and online shop, and you can also contact us via LINE or phone.
Summary｜HERMESTo avoid regrets when choosing the color and material of
Let's look back at how to choose colors and materials introduced in this article.
- Beginners will be less likely to regret it if they choose from the three standard colors: Etoupe, black, and gold.
- Three materials are recommended: Togo, Epson, and Clemence as they are durable and easy to handle.
- Etoup x Togo and Black x Epson are particularly popular combinations.
- Epson x dark color is suitable for commuting, and Togo Clemence x gold color is suitable for casual use.
- You can also enjoy vintage encounters such as discontinued colors and box calfs.
[Buyer Kougen comment]
"It may seem difficult at first to memorize the colors and materials. But when you pick up the actual item, you'll definitely feel that 'this is it'. Because you have the option of vintage, you have the possibility of finding something that you wouldn't be able to find at a regular store. The best way to do that is to make your longings a reality, rather than ending them just 'someday'. Vintage is the best way to do that. Please come to our store in Ginza and make your selection together while holding them in your hands."
If you find a color or material you're interested in, first take a look at our lineup online. H3VINTAGE has a customer rating of 4.8 and ships the next day after ordering, so even first-time customers can use it with confidence. At our Ginza store, we can explain the differences in colors and materials while looking at the actual products, and you can also feel free to contact us via LINE or phone.
