How to Identify Hermes Scarves

Spotting a Hermes scarf is a little like finding Waldo's sassy cousin, Wilhelmina, among a crowd of fashionable, glamorous and classy elite traipsing around in the ultimate jaw-dropping accessories. Follow these steps to identify a Hermes scarf in a crowd and, even better, spot an imposter upon closer inspection.

Instructions

1. Note an overall bold, eye-catching design with bright colors and features like horses, shields, swords and Flamenca dancers. The founder, Thierry Hermes, was a saddle maker in the 1800's, which inspired many of the well-known designs.

2. Look for a white tag with English or French wording, as no other language is ever printed on the tags. It should read either "MADE IN FRANCE 100% SILK DRY CLEAN ONLY" or "FABRIQUE EN FRANCE 100% SOIE." If you see "reine seide" or "seta" you know you have an imposter on your hands.

3. Admire the scarf's hems. The Hermes scarf has a signature rolled hem that is hand-rolled toward the front and is hand-sewn in a perfectly matched thread. The tag is also sewn in the same thread.

4. Search for the signature of the artist somewhere on the scarf. For instance, the Cliquetis design bears the signature of artist Julie Abadie and the copyright symbol "C" or "Hermes Paris C" under the title or on the blade of the sword.

5. Visit one of the 20 plus Hermes boutiques in the United States. You are sure to be greeted with an assortment of tantalizing colors and designs. Bring your plastic-or a good friend who wants to see you able to still pay your rent at the end of the month-if you expect to make it out with enough change in your pocket to sip a post-Hermes Perrier.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Hermes online