French fashion house Hermès has produced a number of iconic pieces that have become a part of every collector’s dream. From their iconic bags like their Birkins and Kellys to their printed iconic Twilly silk scarves, the luxury brand's creations have gone on to become the epitome of timelessness and peak status symbol.
That said, there's one particular design that we have never stopped raving about: the popular Hermès Oran sandals. They're chic, classy, and perfect for everyday wear, so you’d understand why everyone wants to get their hands on a pair. But what makes these sandals truly special and stand out from the rest? Here's everything you need to know about the iconic Hermès Oran Sandals before purchasing a pair.
What are the Hermes Oran sandals?
It was in 1997 when renowned luxury shoe designer Pierre Hardy first conceptualized and created the Hermès Oran sandals. Despite his pursuit to create a strong shoe collection for the brand, according to the man himself, he didn’t peg for the Oran sandals to become a classic. He merely envisioned it to be a simple and almost invisible flat—“like a bare foot with something painted on it,” he said in an interview. He wanted a simple sandal that just about any woman can wear.
And indeed, his minimalist design truly reflected that. A part of the Year of Africa collection of Hermes, the Oran was actually inspired by the house decorations of Africa’s Ndebele tribe. Now, fast forward 20 years later, it’s become a year round classic shoe staple for fashion enthusiasts and the like! Pierre adds that the enduring style of the Oran sits with "the necessity of the thing." Because it's simple and it still makes sense, the sandal transcends time and trends.
How much are the Hermes Oran sandals?
Crafted in Italy, the Hermes Oran sandals are fully made out of box calfskin leather, a high grade leather known to be the oldest one used in Hermes bags. Smooth, sturdy and guaranteed to be of superior quality, you surely won’t have any problems when it comes to its grade A condition. However, design-wise, it relies on one significant feature to tie in all of its elements. With an iconic H cut-out representing the French fashion house, it is all the shoe needs to rein in elegance and simplicity.
Like all things in the world of luxury, pieces that are of premium quality go hand in hand with very steep price tags. And though these sandals come in quite the elementary design, it still retails for quite a lot depending on the materials and design. A pair of the classic Oran sandals is listed at the official Hermes website for $660 or approximately P35,800. But depending on the design and material, it can go as high as $1025 or P55,700, like the Rose Du Désert, which is rendered in shearling material with the design's iconic "H" cut-out.
Of course, the subject of an item’s true value is always up to the buyer. But rest assured, if well taken care of, these sandals can definitely last you a long time!
Oran Sandals in Jaune Topaze, $660 (approx. P35,887), HERMES, hermes.com
Oran Sandals in Rose Du Désert, $1025 (approx. P55,734), HERMES , hermes.com
The most popular variations of the Oran sandal
As mentioned above, this iconic piece of footwear comes in many different designs. From bright and bold hues to neutral and classic tones, you’ll definitely find one that suits you perfectly among over 40 designs to choose from. And ever since its rise in popularity, the shoes are now available in multiple fabrics like patent leather, velvet, and even denim. Yet, some of their most sought-after colorways still remain to be its classics—the black, white, and tan.
Are Oran sandals comfortable to wear?
Oran sandals are made to be worn every day. They're simple and sensible so you won't have a hard time taking them to moderate to long walks. That said, these sandals are reliable enough to be your travel companions given the comfort they bring and that they're also super light in weight. No worries in feeling weighed down as you explore the city!
They also fit true to size and have half sizes so you can get the perfect sandal fit easily. What's more, if you get the right size, it feels like you're like walking comfortably on your feet! They're comfy, weightless, and do not slip off as you go on about your day.
Where can you purchase an Oran sandal in the Philippines?
Now, if you’re interested in purchasing one for yourself, the Oran sandals can be ordered directly through the website of Hermes or you can check out their boutique in Greenbelt 3, Makati City.
Filipina Celebrities Wearing Hermes Oran Sandals
Unsuprisingly, the Hermes Oran sandals are a popular choice among stylish women, including local celebrities and influencers. Below are just some of the local stars we've spotted wearing their fave pair!
Jessy Mendiola
First-time mom Jessy Mendiola went to visit the derma in a chic yet comfy OOTD, featuring tan Oran sandals in the same shade as her Hermes Birkin arm candy.
Jinkee Pacquiao
Jinkee Pacquiao has the Oran sandals in many colors and designs, but one of our faves has got to be this fuchsia pink shearling version, which she wore with an equally colorful set of Fendi co-ords for her Bali poolside 'fit.
Gabbi Garcia
Gabbi Garcia is always one to keep things chic without compromising her style. Here, she sticks to a neutral palette and teams her white tank top and pencil skirt combo with Oran sandals in its classic tan shade.
Julia Barretto
The perpetually chic Julia Barretto also knows all too well that the Oran sandals are perfect for traveling. She wore it during her last trip to Thailand for a chic yet comfy OOTD!
Sarah Lahbati
Meanwhile, Sarah Lahbati injected a fun twist to her little white dress and Prada raffia tote by finishing off her look with a pair of Oran sandals that feature a colorful print.
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