Hermès, founded in 1837, stands as the oldest fashion house in existence today, showcasing a rich history and lasting impact on the luxury fashion landscape.
In the world of haute couture, many fashion enthusiasts often pose trivia questions that delve into the history and evolution of iconic Fashion Houses. Among these inquiries is the quest to identify the oldest Fashion House still operating today. While several well-known names come to mind, such as Dior, Chanel, and Prada, the true pioneer of luxury fashion is Hermès, founded in 1837.
Hermès was established by Thierry Hermès in Paris, initially focusing on leather goods designed for carriages, including saddles and harnesses. Over the years, the brand evolved to encompass an array of luxury products, including fashion items, high-end bags—most notably the Birkin and Kelly—fragrances, and various accessories. As of 2023, Hermès stands as a hallmark of elegance and luxury, showcasing its enduring impact on the fashion industry that spans over 188 years.
Chanel entered the fashion scene in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1910s. Founded by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in Paris originally as a millinery shop, the House of Chanel quickly transformed women’s fashion by introducing designs characterized by simplicity and elegance. Notable contributions include the little black dress, tailored suits, and the iconic Chanel No. 5 fragrance. Chanel played a crucial role in liberating women from the constraints of corsetry and brought comfort into everyday fashion with the introduction of trousers and resort wear for the urban middle class.
Prada followed closely, founded in 1913 in Milan by brothers Mario and Martino Prada. Initially a luxury leather goods brand renowned for its handmade bags and suitcases, the House of Prada underwent a significant transformation in the 1980s when Miuccia Prada took the helm. Under her leadership, Prada became synonymous with avant-garde design and minimal elegance, earning its place as a reference point for contemporary luxury.
Dior, established in 1946 by Christian Dior, made a significant impact on the post-World War II fashion landscape. The designer revealed his first collection in 1947, introducing the “New Look,” which accentuated feminine silhouettes with narrow waists and A-line skirts. Dior’s vision revived a sense of luxury and elegance during a period marked by societal reconstruction, with garments crafted to help women flourish in their attire.
While Chanel and Dior represented opposing aesthetic philosophies—Chanel emphasized simplicity and liberation, whereas Dior embraced a romantic and luxurious approach—Prada’s style resonates with both Chanel’s timeless elegance and innovative spirit. Coco Chanel famously described Dior’s designs as dressing women “like luxurious canaries,” illustrating the contrasting philosophies of these celebrated designers.
Though all three fashion houses—Chanel, Prada, and Dior—have contributed significantly to the fashion narrative since their inception in the early 20th century, it is the House of Hermès that holds the distinction of being the oldest and a cornerstone of haute couture, firmly establishing its legacy in the world of luxury fashion.
Source: Noah Wire Services
