The Hermès Mini Kelly II 20 Casaque: A Racing Stripe in Bleu Électrique & Bleu Encre



The Hermès Kelly is an icon of timeless elegance, but with the Casaque collection, the maison introduced a dynamic, sporty spirit that has captured the imagination of collectors. The Mini Kelly II 20 Casaque in Bleu Électrique and Bleu Encre Epsom with Gold Hardware is a standout piece that marries the house's equestrian heritage with a bold, contemporary aesthetic. This article provides a detailed examination of this exceptional limited edition.

The Casaque Collection: A Nod to the Races

The word "Casaque" is French for "jersey," the sleeveless garment worn by jockeys during horse races . The Casaque collection, first produced in 2021, is a direct tribute to Hermès's equestrian roots . The collection is defined by its bold color-blocking, which is visually reminiscent of a jockey's racing silks .

A key feature of the Casaque design is that it divides the iconic Kelly silhouette into distinct sections. While the Birkin is split into quadrants, the Kelly is split into halves . This creates a striking contrast that makes the bag instantly recognizable as part of this limited collection. This "racing color" theme is a recurring motif in the house, appearing across scarves, watch straps, and other accessories .

Design & Specifications: The Mini Kelly II 20

The Mini Kelly II 20 is celebrated for its compact and versatile proportions, measuring approximately 20 x 12 x 6 cm (7.9" x 4.7" x 2.4") . This size is one of the most coveted in the Hermès lineup, prized for its ability to transition seamlessly from day to evening .

The design showcases the iconic Kelly elements with the distinctive Casaque twist:

  • A single rolled leather top handle for elegant hand carry

  • A detachable adjustable shoulder strap with a drop of approximately 18.5 inches for versatile crossbody wear 

  • The signature Kelly turn-lock closure 

  • A flap top secured by the turn-lock and two sangles (straps)

  • Gold Hardware, which provides a warm, luxurious contrast to the cool blues

  • Protective base studs

The bag is accompanied by its full set: a dust bag, protective felt, care booklet, and an Hermès box .

Color: The Dual-Tone Palette

The Casaque's color-blocking creates a dynamic visual tension. The vibrant Bleu Électrique brings energy, while the deeper, grounding Bleu Encre provides sophistication . This combination is both playful and refined, making it a standout in any collection.

Material Analysis: Epsom Leather

The Mini Kelly Casaque is crafted from Epsom leather, a choice that is fundamental to the Sellier construction. Epsom is a pressed, heavily grained calfskin prized for its distinct qualities:

  • Durability: Highly scratch-resistant and easy to maintain.

  • Shape Retention: Maintains a crisp, rigid silhouette essential to the Sellier style .

  • Color Absorption: Takes color beautifully, providing a uniform canvas that allows the vibrant Bleu Électrique and Bleu Encre hues to shine .

The interior is lined in a contrasting Gold lambskin leather, offering a hidden pop of warmth that complements the cool exterior .

Hardware: The Warmth of Gold

The use of Gold Hardware (GHW) is a defining and complementary feature of this Mini Kelly. The polished gold offers a brilliant, warm glow that provides a luxurious contrast to the cool-toned Bleu Électrique and Bleu Encre . The gold hardware adds a classic elegance to the sporty design, balancing the bold color-blocking with a touch of tradition. This creates a timeless appeal that transcends seasonal trends.

Rarity and Secondary Market Value

The Casaque Mini Kelly is a limited edition, and the Bleu Électrique and Bleu Encre version is a particularly sought-after piece.

  • Year of Production: The examples examined in the search results are from 2022 . The 2022 production marked a key year for the Casaque design in this colorway.

  • Auction Presence: A 2022 example was listed for auction with an estimate of 130,000 - 200,000 HKD (approximately $16,700 - $25,700 USD at the time) .

The presence of all original accessories—the box, dust bag, strap dust bag, felt, and care booklet—is crucial for achieving the highest prices . The variation in pricing reflects the global market and the specific condition of the piece.

Conclusion

The Hermès Limited Edition Mini Kelly II 20 Casaque in Bleu Électrique and Bleu Encre Epsom with Gold Hardware is a masterpiece of modern luxury. It represents the convergence of several key elements of collectibility: the heritage-inspired Casaque design, the vibrant and sophisticated dual-tone palette, the durability of Epsom leather, and the timeless elegance of gold hardware. For the discerning collector, this bag is not merely an accessory but a significant investment—a piece of Hermès history that embodies the maison's ability to balance its storied equestrian roots with a playful, contemporary spirit.

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