Herminie Harto was born in France. Her early life is not extensively documented, but the social and political context of mid-19th century France, marked by the rigid fashion norms imposed by the corset, likely influenced her later innovations.

While specific details are scarce, it is highly probable that Herminie gained experience and knowledge of corsetry during this period. Women were frequently employed in the textiles and clothing industries, and she may have worked as a seamstress or in a related occupation that gave her a practical understanding of garment construction and the discomforts associated with traditional corsets.