HMS Birkin

The Hermes Tosca Micro Birkin, released as part of the 2011 Autumn Winter collection, is a striking example of the luxury brand's dedication to elegance and refinement. The striking purple color, reminiscent of the eponymous opera by Puccini, exudes a sense of superb refinement and sophistication, making it the perfect accessory to elevate any casual outfit. The 15cm Micro Birkin, a Gaultier design, was adapted to be part of the Candy Collection, a line curated by then-artistic director Christophe Lemaire.

Lemaire, who honed his craft through internships at esteemed fashion houses such as Christian Lacroix, Yves Saint Laurent, and Thierry Mugler, first rose to prominence as the artistic director of Lacoste. In 2010, he was appointed as the artistic director of Hermès, a move that was met with surprise in the industry. However, Lemaire quickly established himself as a visionary designer, crafting an aesthetic for the brand that seamlessly combined his own simple and modern aesthetic with the rich heritage of Hermès.

During his four-year tenure at the luxury label, Lemaire helped to create an effortless and timeless luxury, which cemented Hermès's reputation as one of the most respected and sought-after brands in the world. Lemaire stepped down from his position in 2014 to focus on his own label, but his legacy at Hermès lives on through the enduring popularity of the Candy Collection.