The Oran is a flat leather slide whose single strap is cut into the shape of an 'H'. Harper's Bazaar reports that Pierre Hardy launched it in 1997 as part of Hermès' Africa-inspired spring collection, and that it was named after the Algerian city of Oran. Hardy had joined Hermès in 1990 and later also became creative director of its fine jewellery.
The magazine puts the sandal's staying power down to three things: a comfortable, well-made fit, a design simple enough to go with almost anything, and a shape that is still instantly recognisable to people who know it. It names the Oran alongside Chanel ballet flats, the Manolo Blahnik Hangisi and Gucci's Horsebit loafer as one of the few shoes to reach icon status.
More than 25 years after its launch, the Oran is still in Hermès' range, sold in a wide range of colours with frequent limited shades, and is in strong demand on the resale market.