Leather Forever

Marking its 175th anniversary, Hermès is presenting an exhibition of iconic handbags designed through the decades. The exhibition (taking place at the Royal Academy of Art’s sister space, 6 Burlington Gardens) will tell the story of how Hermès started out as a saddle and harness-maker before going on to become one of the world’s most renowned fashion labels. As well as taking visitors through the history of Hermès, the show will include a series of leather making and designing demonstrations led by experts, and also celebrate a new collection of four handbags – each representing England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales – which have been created especially for the occasion.