It might not be covered in logos, it might not be gilded, and it might never be worn by a Kardashian, but there is one thing that instantly sets an Hermès ensemble apart: it looks expensive. And, truthfully, it is expensive, but the important factor is that it is readily and instantly identifiable as being well crafted and high quality. The discreet luxury of Hermès is the reason why it so consistently provides the highest ROI of any luxury brand. While other companies clamor for celebrity endorsements and race to social media with buzzy campaigns, Hermès, under the skilled tutelage of Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski, quietly excels in its craft, season after season.
Juxtaposed against a modern, glowing catwalk, the Hermès woman was a study in classics.
For Fall/Winter 2018, this meant a return to its heritage. Translation: leather, lots of supple, gorgeous, and beautifully cut leather. Juxtaposed against a modern, glowing catwalk, the Hermès woman was a study in classics. She wore calf-length leather outerwear, which was judiciously appointed with square studs, and midi-length frocks with a smattering of Western embroidery at the shoulder.
Additionally, we appreciated the cut of Vanhee-Cybulski’s exquisite pencil skirts, some fully leather and others merely trimmed with the stuff. Handsome wool separates and dresses also appeared, finished with little sections of tobacco-colored leather, while wool outerwear was transformed by grid-like patterns. A lot of brands at Paris Fashion Week, like Isabel Marant and Chloé, have opted for Western influence and earthy palettes. Hermès did too, but the collection’s color tones were less drab and more vibrant, especially in the case of ochre dresses traced with beading and oxblood-red leather trenches. All in all, it was a really beautiful effort, providing the kind of clothes that will last a lifetime – and that is exactly what a heritage brand should be focusing on.
