Elegant Hermés boxes initially came in a subtle cream colour, enhanced with a chocolate brown edge trim and a texture that emulated pigskin. Then along came World War II and the carton supplier to the fashion house, impacted by a shortage of materials and dyes, could no longer produce the classic packaging. However, they were sitting on a large inventory of a different coloured box that they were more than happy to offer to their high end customer. This particular stock was dull brownish-orange and, frankly, no one wanted them. So in 1942, somewhat reluctantly, Hérmes made the switch. They have never looked back.
Over the years, the orange got brighter and the number of sizes increased – they now have 188 box variations. The distinctive Pantone Color No. 1448 has gone on to define the Hérmes brand, giving it a sense of “serenity, wisdom and joie de vivre.” Square, rectangular, round and heart-shaped boxes are produced in France and Italy by seven different manufacturers. These well-crafted packages are so desirable that they can be found selling on eBay for as much as US$300.00. And that’s for an empty box!
