By Funke Babs-Kufeji
I’ll never forget my first pair of Hermès Oran sandals. They arrived in that unmistakable orange box, a gift from a friend who, luckily for me, has a knack for all things Hermès. I’d casually mentioned I wanted a pair; to me, the Oran was that iconic step into the Hermès universe, the kind of piece you don’t just own—you covet. And, oh, was I ready to step into that world. The Hermès Oran has been gracing fashionable feet since 1997, and rather than fading into the past, it’s only gained popularity over the years.
With their timeless appeal, these sandals are more than just a seasonal accessory; they’re a style staple, a nod to the enduring allure of understated luxury. This timeless quality was my first green flag that the Oran was truly worth every glance, every compliment, and, ultimately, every penny. Now, let’s talk about what makes these sandals so magnetic and why people are willing to drop $760 for them (yes, you read that right). It’s easy to dismiss luxury items as overpriced, but when it comes to Hermès, there’s a lot more behind that price tag. Known since 1837 for their meticulous craftsmanship, Hermès is the pinnacle of luxury—each piece a testament to quality and heritage. The Oran sandal is no exception, and understanding the process behind them adds a new layer to their appeal. When you slip on a pair of Hermès Oran sandals, you’re stepping into an item crafted with intense precision.
Each pair is painstakingly made by skilled artisans who bring traditional techniques to life with every cut and stitch. These aren’t mass-produced items churned out by machines; they’re handcrafted from start to finish, from the selection of premium leathers to the meticulous stitching that brings the Oran’s design to life. And speaking of design—let’s not overlook that iconic “H” cutout. Simple yet distinctive, it’s a quiet nod to the brand, a subtle hint that says luxury without shouting it. The Oran sandal isn’t just about looks, though. With soft, padded insoles and a design that’s as ergonomic as it is stylish, they deliver a comfort that’s rare in the luxury world. Now, here’s where it gets interesting. For every pair of Hermès Orans sold, there are countless lookalikes popping up from brands like Amazon, Steve Madden, and other mainstream retailers.
While these alternatives might offer a similar silhouette, they often lack the quality and craftsmanship that define Hermès. Sure, you can snag a pair of Oran-inspired sandals for a fraction of the price, but they likely won’t offer the same durability, comfort, or long-term value. However, for some, this option works just fine—especially if you’re not looking to invest heavily in a single piece. But then comes the question: Is the genuine brand truly worth it? To some, spending $760 on a pair of flat sandals seems almost absurd, especially when there are more affordable options that get the “look” across. However, for others, the price justifies the quality, the craftsmanship, and, let’s be honest, the luxury status that Hermès carries. Ultimately, whether the Hermès Oran is worth it depends on what you value. If craftsmanship, durability, and luxury mean more to you than finding a quick deal, then investing in the Oran could be worth every dollar. On the other hand, if you’re just after the aesthetic, those budget-friendly options can deliver the look without the splurge.
In the fashion world, some pieces transcend practicality, becoming something, you wear not just on your feet but in your heart. The Oran, for many, is exactly that—a piece that, once slipped on, makes you feel part of something timeless, something bigger than just a sandal. write out 10 different topics for this feature
