Save This Before Buying Your Next Hermès
SW3 Celine
HERMÈS LEATHER GUIDE
Save This Before Buying Your Next Hermès
Togo or Epsom? Barenia or Barenia Faubourg? Can you actually tell Niloticus from Porosus? The leather you choose completely changes how a Hermès bag looks, feels and ages. Here's your quick guide to 19 of Hermès' most iconic leathers and exotic skins.
The Everyday Classics
Swift, Togo, Clémence and Epsom remain four of Hermès' most recognisable leathers. Some are soft and relaxed, while others are structured and lightweight. Understanding these differences helps you choose the bag that best suits your lifestyle and personal style.
Popular Choices
- Togo: Soft, grained and keeps its shape beautifully.
- Epsom: Lightweight, embossed and highly structured.
- Clémence: Relaxed with a larger natural grain.
- Swift: Smooth, rich in colour and beautifully soft.
Leathers That Tell A Story
Some Hermès leathers become even more beautiful with age. Barenia is famous for developing a rich patina over time, while Barenia Faubourg offers a similar character with a more textured grain. Negonda is loved for its durability, and Doblis Suede offers a luxurious velvety finish for collectors looking for something different.
Quiet Luxury Favourites
Chèvre Mysore, Box Calf, Evercalf, Evercolor and Evergrain each offer their own personality. From the glossy elegance of Box Calf to the fine grain of Evergrain and the vibrant colour retention of Evercolor, these leathers continue to be favourites among Hermès collectors.
The Exotic Collection
Hermès' exotic skins represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship. Porosus Crocodile is recognised for its fine symmetrical scales, Niloticus Crocodile for its larger scales and the iconic Himalaya bags, while Alligator Mississippiensis offers a beautifully clean, refined appearance. Each is available in both matte and shiny finishes, giving collectors different looks while showcasing the same exceptional craftsmanship.
Rare Collector Materials
Ostrich, Salvator Lizard and Niloticus Lizard complete the Hermès leather story. Ostrich is instantly recognisable for its feather follicles, while the two lizard skins are admired for their incredibly fine scales and refined appearance.
Choosing a Hermès bag isn't just about the colour or hardware—it's about finding the leather that fits your lifestyle and ages the way you want it to.
Explore our Hermès Collection, learn about our Authentication Process, discover our Global Sourcing Service or visit SW3 Boutique.
Find Your Perfect Hermès Leather
Whether you're looking for a structured Epsom Kelly, a relaxed Togo Birkin or a rare exotic collector piece, SW3 Boutique specialises in authenticated Hermès handbags and worldwide sourcing.
Shop Hermès Start Sourcing Sell Your Bag Contact SW3 Boutique
SW3 Boutique is an independent luxury resale boutique and is not affiliated with any brands featured. Brand names are used only to describe the items offered.