Hermès Oran vs. Chypre Sandals

Oran vs. Chypre – it’s another great Hermès rivalry that in recent years has proved the footwear equivalent of Hermès’ great Birkin vs. Kelly debate. Since it’s summer, I think there’s no better time to give you guys my take on these two iconic Hermès sandal designs, and let each style battle it out for the title of Hermès’ Best Sandal. We’re going to be talking similarities, differences, versatility and how to style as someone who owns multiples of each sandal. So if you take your summer sandal collection as seriously as I do (which is pretty seriously) then read on …

The Hermès Oran sandal needs no introduction (I’ve also posted an Hermès Oran Sandal Guide so check that out if you haven’t already). This footwear favourite was first introduced in the late ‘90s and has held its ground as a Hermès classic ever since. Each year it manages to be the shoe of the summer, every summer – which is an impressive feat in today’s luxury landscape that sees constant new releases. The sleek and simple design that spotlights the famous H cutout strap across the front has been endlessly imitated (the sincerest form of flattery). Plus, the continuously evolving variations in colours and materials offered each season make this style an Hermès collector’s dream. The Oran has a slim silhouette that, at its core, is very minimalist and versatile.  

The Hermès Chypre sandal is much newer. Released in 2021, the design shares the same signature H cutout strap across the front as the Oran but the Chypre has a noticeably chunkier sole which plays into the popular dad sandal phenomenon. There’s also an additional thick adjustable velcro strap across the middle of the foot to give the design a more utility-inspired look. Unlike the Hermès Oran, the footbed of the Chypre sandal is moulded to fit the contours of your foot to give added comfort, especially for long wear. Upon first glance, the Hermès Chypre feels more casual and trend-driven than the Oran. But don’t be fooled into labelling the Chypre a trend piece. The dad sandal trend emerged in the early 2020s and, while the Chypre’s design gained popularity as a high-fashion take on this, it’s still proving covetable years later which makes the case for the Chypre sandal being a new classic. 

When choosing a pair of sandals – especially a pair of Hermès sandals that I’m investing quite a bit of money in – comfort and frequency of use are high on my list of priorities. And both the Oran and Chypre sandals rank very high for these key factors. The design of the Chypre is often praised for being more comfortable due to its thick moulded footbed. But the comfort of the classic Orans shouldn’t be undersold. The Oran’s design may be slimmer but I’ve walked around in a pair for hours with no pain or aching at all. So overall, both styles take home points for comfort. 

Now onto versatility and styling. I think it’s pretty clear that the Hermès Chypre is the more casual option. The chunky sole, the velcro strap … need I go on? As far as casual sandals go, the Chypre still proves pretty versatile. I’ve worn my pairs with midi dresses, shorts and denim looks – they’re very much a staple in my summer wardrobe. But the Oran sandal takes this versatility to a whole other level. This design is casual enough to wear to the beach but elevated enough to wear to dinner with a dress as an alternative to heels. You could quite literally pack for your holiday exclusively with different versions of the Hermès Oran and be all set. Trust me, I’ve been tempted to do so (the slim silhouette means they take up less room in your suitcase, too). 

I think that it’s gotten to the point now where many Hermès colour and material options have become almost as famous as the designs themselves. From the coveted gold Box Calfskin to newer shearling, denim and even exotic croc and lizard variations. My Hermès Oran Sandal Guide delves deep into the options available and the Chypre design is offered in a similarly expansive range. Some of my top picks include playful pastel leather options, shiny patent croc, and true classics like my Epsom leather Orans in the neutral Étoupe colour. 

Of course, there are limited-edition versions released seasonally that can prove very rare and coveted. Both the Oran and Chypre are available in the collector’s favourite Himalaya niloticus crocodile leather – perfect to go with your matching Birkin or Kelly if you’re one of the lucky few who owns one. And if you love a colourblock design, some variations of the Hermès Chypre sandal feature a velcro strap in a contrasting colour which I love. 

Sandals are some of the more affordable Hermès styles to shop (note – affordable by Hermès standards) and both the Hermès Oran and Chypre sandals are regarded as great first Hermès pieces to buy if you’re just starting your Hermès collection. The Oran style starts from £610 new from the boutique, while the Chypre is a little more expensive starting at £760. It’s definitely worth mentioning that both designs can be tricky to get a hold of in the most popular colours and materials, especially the Oran sandals owing to their continuous cult-like popularity. So if you come across the pair you want, I recommend acting FAST. 

Alternatively, you can choose to go down the pre-loved route. Oran sandals roughly go for around the £350 to £600 mark for classic leather options, while the Chypre is again a little pricier starting from around £600 to £900. It’s important to note that for both styles, prices on the resale market vary depending on the colour, material and popularity of the size.  

So what’s the verdict?! Honestly, I don’t think I can pick just one. The Hermès Oran sandals bring that effortless elegance to any summer outfit – they’re classic, sleek, and instantly elevate even the simplest look. The Chypre, on the other hand, feels a bit more casual and cool, but still very much a statement. I’ve worn both styles for years and keep reaching for them every single summer. Two very different moods, both equally loved.

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