How Hermès’ Oran Sandal Retains Its Status As One Of The Most Desirable Accessories Ever
At the close of another summer, the Hermès’ Oran sandal shows no signs of losing its iconic status
While handbags are often our most exalted accessories (spurred on by the fact that we literally hold them like trophies) footwear is less likely to reach certified style icon status. Generic types of shoes and sandals are regularly cited as must-wears, however it’s far rarer for one individual shoe, or sandal, to ascend the upper echelons of fashion’s most fabled.
Yet one shoe has risen to take the mantle: Hermès’ Oran sandal. A simple slider-style mule, decorated modestly with a cutout leather H initial. Since its inception over 25 years ago, the Oran has become one of the most desirable shoes – indeed accessories – in the world.
Rewind to 1997. Former Hermès artistic director, Jean-Louis Dumas, decreed the maison’s annual theme was Africa. Thus, the house’s footwear creative director Pierre Hardy named his new creation the Oran, after the Algerian coastal city. Once the Oran hit the stores, it became the metier’s bestseller and remains a red hot ticket. While classic shades of tan, black and natural tones are staples, each season brings an array of new prints, colours and materials to keep the Oran feeling fresh (and bringing loyal fans back to add to their collections.)
Quite apart from the breathtaking simplicity, legendarily comfortable fit and versatile style, it’s likely this sandal wouldn’t be quite as coveted without an Hermès’ stamp on the sole. Tales of Hermès’ handbags breaking world records for their astronomical auction prices and their rarity all combine to make the Kelly, the Birkin and the Constance legends of luxury. Yet these are bags. How does the simple Oran sandal, comprising a pared-back – almost plain – design, and costing less than 90 per cent the price of some of Hermès’ mid-range bags, still stir such fervour?
“I think the key to its popularity is not only is it instantly recognisable, but it is also an Hermès product that is accessible,” opines Hanushka Toni, co-founder of Sellier Knightsbridge, a cult destination for sourcing pre-loved super-brands. “It is that perfect gateway purchase for any shopper, including those who may not be able to access a Kelly or a Birkin, yet it still has that luxurious aspect.” In the same way that an Hermès’ scarf or even a lipstick has an aspirational air, the sandals are relatively affordable, yet still feel like a treat.
But how does accessibility balance in a house built on exclusivity? Appointments to discuss the potential purchase of a bag are coveted. Once the purchase is confirmed, the price tag will rise into five figures or more. In contrast, in a couple of clicks online, the Oran sandals can be yours. You’re likely to spot them scattered all over your social feeds too, so could familiarity – indeed popularity – breed contempt?
After more than 25 years as a best-seller, there is no sign of the Oran’s desirability waning as visibility rises, even if it’s magnified by social media manipulation. Hanushka reveals, “The Hermès Oran sandal is one of our most popular and most requested shoes, with the fastest sell through rate all year round.” This year Hanushka suggests that the must-have version comes in verte pomme. “Because Hermès release new colours, people are always interested in adding a new shade or new type of leather to their collection.”
As pre-loved fashion becomes a far cleverer way to buy into a luxury brand and the world finally switches on to sustainable fashion practises, it makes sense to invest in one pair of luxurious sandals that will suit every situation in your diary, rather than buy several cheaper shoes you’ll quickly bore of. The Oran could be the ultimate option.
Hanushka believes, “the fact they are really comfy to wear also makes them a must have and is another reason we see even Hermès die-hards buy them again and again each season.” In a world where suffering for style and chasing fly-by-night trends seems devastatingly last season, the Oran sandal offers a triple threat of luxury, style and versatility.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s July/August 2022 Issue.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@threadsstyling