Hermès Authenticity
If you’ve ever swooned over a Birkin or dreamed of owning a Kelly, you already know that Hermès is more than just a fashion label—it’s a legacy. Founded way back in 1837, Hermès has spent nearly two centuries perfecting the art of timeless design and masterful craftsmanship. From iconic handbags to silk scarves, belts, jewelry, and beyond, each piece reflects the brand’s dedication to quality, tradition, and exquisite detail.
But as with most high-end luxury names, where there’s demand, there’s also imitation. The market is flooded with counterfeit pieces that look deceptively close to the real thing—but don’t be fooled. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply admiring, knowing how to identify the authentic Hermès experience is essential.
At Swap Boutique, we take authenticity seriously. We know that when you invest in a designer piece—especially something as coveted as Hermès —you deserve to know it's the real deal. So let’s take a deeper dive into what makes Hermès pieces unique, and how to spot the signs of true authenticity.
Hermès items are investment pieces. A single handbag can retain or even increase in value over time—if it’s genuine. Beyond the price tag, there’s also a level of artistry and heritage behind each piece. Knowing how to spot fakes means you’re not only protecting your wallet but also honoring the legacy behind what you’re wearing or carrying.
So, let’s talk details.
Logo + Branding
The Hermès logo is instantly recognizable—an elegant horse-drawn carriage, paired with serif typography that simply reads “Hermès Paris.” It sounds simple enough, but counterfeiters often get it wrong in the subtlest of ways.
Here’s what to check:
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The placement of the logo—misaligned logos are a red flag.
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Font consistency—Hermès uses very specific typefaces.
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Accent marks and punctuation—things like the accent on the “è” in Hermès should always be there.
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Proportions—everything should feel balanced and intentional.
Tiny inconsistencies in font weight, spacing, or positioning can be a sign you’re not looking at the real thing. A genuine Hermès logo will look flawless—because, well, it is.
Hardware
Hermès doesn’t mess around when it comes to hardware. Everything from the zippers to the clasps feels solid, smooth, and heavy—not in a bulky way, but in a “wow, this is made to last” way.
Some things to keep in mind:
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Hermès hardware is usually plated in precious metals like gold or palladium.
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It should be consistent in color and finish—no flaking, fading, or discoloration.
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Each piece of hardware will be stamped with the Hermès logo (and it's crisp, never blurry or off-center).
Fun fact: In the 1960s, Hermès started using palladium in its handbags to help prevent tarnishing. If you’re inspecting a vintage piece, that detail might help you date it.
Stitching
This is where Hermès truly shines. Their bags are stitched by hand using a method called saddle stitching—a time-intensive technique where two needles pass through every single hole. It’s not just pretty; it’s durable and practically indestructible.
When you’re checking the stitching:
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Look for perfectly even spacing and no loose threads.
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The stitch line should flow cleanly and follow the bag’s shape exactly.
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The thread color is carefully selected to match the leather—nothing too stark or out of place.
If something feels sloppy, chances are, it’s not authentic.
Leathers + Skins
Hermès is known for sourcing some of the finest leathers in the world. Whether it’s buttery calfskin, pebbled Togo, or even rare exotics like crocodile and ostrich, the material is always luxurious.
Here’s what to check:
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Texture: It should feel rich, soft, and sturdy.
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Grain: Uniform and consistent—unless it’s a type of leather where irregularities are expected.
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Smell: Real Hermès leather has a very distinct, natural scent. It shouldn’t smell synthetic or chemically treated.
One of the brand’s earliest leathers, “Box” leather, was introduced in the 1930s and is still loved today for its structured form and smooth surface.
Fabrics + Scarves
Not every Hermès piece is made from leather. Their silk scarves, for example, are iconic in their own right.
What to look for:
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Silk twill: The fabric should feel weighty, with a slight texture.
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Print: The colors are rich, the designs are incredibly detailed, and the patterns are centered perfectly.
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Edges: Hermès scarves are hand-rolled and hand-stitched along the edge—a detail often skipped or sloppily done on fakes.
The “H-Print” scarf launched in the ‘80s was a game changer—and today, many limited-edition scarves have become collector’s items.
Serial Numbers + Blind Stamps
Most Hermès bags and accessories come with a unique serial number or “blind stamp” that’s pressed into the leather. This discreet marking contains a code that reveals when the piece was made, and sometimes even where and by whom.
Look for:
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A letter inside a shape (circle, square, etc.) that indicates the year.
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A craftsman’s ID number or code.
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Matching serial numbers on the authenticity card or packaging.
Older vintage pieces may be missing these markings, so don’t panic—but for newer pieces, this is a crucial step in the authentication process.
Authenticating Hermès isn't about memorizing a checklist—it’s about learning to recognize the quality, heritage, and artistry that define the brand. From the stitching to the scent of the leather, every little detail tells a story.
At Swap Boutique, we’re committed to offering only 100% authentic designer pieces. Whether you’re shopping with us in-store or online, rest assured—we’re just as passionate about quality as you are.
So whether it’s a classic Birkin, a colorful silk scarf, or a sleek enamel bracelet, you can trust that your Hermès piece is the real deal—and made to be loved for years (or decades) to come.
