The Hermès Candy Collection
A Definitive Guide to the 2011–2012 "Neon Era"
What it was: Launched in Spring 2011 under creative director Christophe Lemaire and expanded in Fall 2012, the Candy Collection reimagined the Birkin and Kelly in vivid, bi‑color schemes. Featuring saturated Epsom leather exteriors with contrasting Chèvre interiors and back‑of‑sangle color pops, it was one of Hermès’ widest-ranging seasonal limited editions.
What was produced: Candy Birkins (sizes 25, 30, 35) and Candy Kellys (sizes 28, 32, 35 Retourne). The capsule also coincided with "Micro" Birkin & Kelly pieces executed in the same eye‑popping hues.
The Documented Pairings
The defining feature of the Candy Collection is the contrast. Below are the confirmed combinations from the 2011–2012 run. The Exterior is always Epsom; the Interior is always Chèvre.
Spring 2011 (The "Acid Brights")
Fall 2012 (The "Tempered Hues")
Design Specs & Authentication
- Leather: Exclusively Epsom. Chosen by Hermès for its ability to hold vivid dyes (chroma) and maintain sharp structural edges.
- Interior: Always contrasting Chèvre (Goatskin).
-
Stamps:
- Spring 2011 Wave: Square O (□O)
- Fall 2012 Wave: Square P (□P)
- Hardware: Predominantly Palladium (PHW). Select rare examples exist with Permabrass (Champagne Gold), primarily on 2012 pieces.
Authentication Tip
True Candy bags feature the contrast color in two specific places: the full interior lining and the reverse side of the sangle straps. If the back of the strap matches the exterior color, it is likely not a Candy collection piece.
Market Rarity: A Practical Tiering
| Tier | Description | Why? |
|---|---|---|
|
Tier 1 Unicorns |
Birkin 25 & Kelly 28 in Rose Tyrien, Kiwi, or Lime. |
Small sizes in "Acid" colors are exceedingly rare and command the highest premiums. Pristine condition is difficult to find in light colors. |
|
Tier 2 Collectors |
Birkin 30 & Kelly 32 in Rouge Casaque or Bleu Céleste. |
Highly desirable wearable sizes. Rouge Casaque / Bleu Thalassa is a favorite for its "Nautical" aesthetic. |
|
Tier 3 Accessible |
Birkin 35 in Tosca, Etain, or Jaune d'Or. |
Larger sizes are currently softer in the secondary market, offering excellent value for collectors seeking a piece of history. |
Collector's Take: Think of "Candy" as the moment Hermès proved high-saturation color theory could live permanently on the icons without sacrificing structure. When in doubt, prioritize condition—Epsom is durable, but color transfer on neon hues is permanent.
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