When choosing an Hermès bag,
the type of leather can be surprisingly confusing.
This time, we feature three commonly seen classic leathers.
Find your favorite!
How to choose Hermès leather types
Different leathers.
However, the silhouette of the bag, how the color appears,
and the impression it makes when you hold it can change more than you'd expect.
Some are soft and supple.
Others are crisp and structured.
Even with the same Birkin or Kelly,
a change in leather gives it a slightly different look.
Comparing 3 popular leathers
| Comparison Item | Togo | Taurillon Clemence |
Epsom | Swift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Introduced | 1997 | 1992 | 2004 | 2004 |
| Surface | Rounded, irregular grain | Large, irregular grain |
Fine, uniform grain | Mostly smooth |
| Texture | Moderately soft |
Soft and smooth |
Firm and structured |
Soft and supple |
| Sheen | Matte | Semi-matte | Slight sheen | Delicate sheen |
| Aging | Gradually softens |
Becomes even more supple |
Maintains shape well |
Becomes even more supple |
When viewed side-by-side, the differences are surprisingly clear.
Togo
Togo, introduced in 1997.
It uses male calf leather with a natural grain (shibo)
and has a pleasant firmness while still being soft.
It shows off its softness while still retaining
the distinctive character of leather.
Taurillon Clemence
Taurillon Clemence, introduced in 1992.
It features a larger grain (shibo) and
a plump, soft texture.
When made into a bag,
it forms a slightly relaxed, natural silhouette.
Perfect for days when you want a less structured look
and to relax.
Epsom
Epsom, introduced in 2004.
It's a firm material made from male calf leather
with a fine embossed pattern.
The lines of the bag are crisp,
and colors appear clean.
If you want to enjoy the neat lines of a Kelly or Birkin,
Epsom is a leather to consider.
The same model looks so different
From left to right: Togo, Taurillon, Epsom.
Key distinguishing points are
the size of the grain, surface treatment, and leather firmness.
Among them, Togo and Taurillon are
a bit tricky to tell apart.
Togo can sometimes show "bloodlines,"
which are traces of veins remaining as wrinkles.
Bloodlines can be seen in other cowhides as well,
but Togo, with its fine, deep grain,
tends to show them more frequently.
Each leather has its own unique character, with no two being exactly alike,
which is an endearing charm unique to natural materials!
Leather FAQ: What you need to know before buying
Q. Which leather is less prone to losing its shape?
If you want to maintain a clean form, Epsom is the choice.
Togo, Taurillon Clemence, and Swift
will soften and adapt with use.
Q. Which one is best if you're concerned about scratches?
If you're concerned about minor scratches,
Epsom is a good candidate as it's relatively tough.
For vintage items, regardless of the material,
it's important to check the condition of the corners, bottom, handles, and opening.
Q. How do their appearances differ?
For a larger grain, choose Taurillon Clemence.
For a natural grain, Togo.
For a fine and uniform grain, Epsom.
For a smooth, sleek finish, Swift.
Q. What if I prefer soft leather?
For a soft, relaxed look, choose
Taurillon Clemence.
For moderate softness, Togo.
Q. Which one is resistant to rain and moisture?
It's best to avoid getting any leather wet if possible.
If it does get wet,
the basic rule is to gently wipe it with a soft cloth without rubbing.
Check out the maintenance video! ↓
▶【Must-see for beginners!!】Complete leather bag care in just 10 minutes!
Q. Ultimately, how should I choose?
For balance, Togo.
For softness, Taurillon Clemence.
For a beautiful form, Epsom.
But in the end, there's no single "right" answer;
it's best to choose based on your preferred look and how you'll use it.
▶ First Hermès bag: What to choose? 6 classic models and popular color guide
