So the other day, I got around to having a sneak peak at the Hermès Leather Forever Exhibition on Burlington Gardens, Piccadilly. And I actually had to be pretty sneaky as I managed to capture a few images for you guys, despite the ardent ‘no photography’ rule and the hawk-eye event co-ordinators patrolling the rooms.

(I love that the figurine is holding a Birkin!)

It was a small but perfectly formed exhibition, with some gorgeous vintage and current pieces on display. There was even a live demonstration in progress of a very cute neon-green Constance being made. Lots of information on the history of the company, including how and when different bag models were introduced. There were nice little touches including a room with a sand walkway flanked with the brand’s iconic riding boots, and a wall display which allowed you to open up each alcove to glimpse features of the Hermès designs such as the classic Kelly bag strap.

(Those orange boxes just make me smile :))

The knockout display though was a dark room featuring a perspex ‘Birkin’ structure containing an array of bags:

(Note the awesome black Birkin featuring spike detailing to kill!!)

It was a well-executed exhibition, and particularly interesting if you’re intent upon understanding more behind the craft and workmanship that goes into forming these important and historic bags. Catch it until the 27th May.