Jane Birkin. Singer, actress, muse and last but definitely not least a fashion icon, died at the age of seventy-six at her home in Paris, France. British-born but having found her true self in France, she became not only one of the most influential figure in the fashion industry but also well known for her continuous fight for women’s and LQBT rights.
Besides her remarkable singing and acting career, mostly in French cinema, she became a muse to one of the most prestigious fashion houses in the world. You probably guessed it correctly, the word is Hermès. Not only did she inspire the house’s creative direction, she gave name to the most iconic handbags in the world. Yes, THE Birkin bag. One of the most desirable fashion pieces of all time. The one when we have to jump through hoops to only have a change to get on a waiting list to be offered one of the world’s most sought after handbags. That Birkin bag.
Jane Birkin, the IT girl for decades and decades.
Back in 2012, she shared how this iconic piece of fashion was born. One of the most wholesome stories you can imagine and we would not expect any less from the start. Back in 1981, on her flight to London, she was sat next to no other than Jean-Louis Dumas, the Chief Executive of Hermès. Having spilled all of her bag’s contents all over the floor, Dumas turned to her saying she should consider getting a bag with pockets. To which she replied she will once Hermès makes one with pockets. With a smile on his face, Dumas then said “but I am Hermès, and I will put pockets in for you”. And there it was. On that day, the idea of the most iconic bag in the world was born.
‘We have lost a close friend and a long-time companion’ – Hermès, 16 June 2023
Considering her life-long relationship with the house and incredible presence and influence on the fashion world, the house said on Sunday:
“We are deeply saddened to have learned of the passing of Jane Birkin. Our thoughts are with her daughters, grand-children, and her loved ones. We have lost a close friend and a long-time companion. With a shared sensitivity, we grew to know each other, we discovered and appreciated the extent to which Jane Birkin’s soft elegance revealed an artist in her own right, committed, open-minded, with a natural curiosity of the world and others. We salute Jane Birkin’s talent, and above all her great humanity as we join her family in mourning.”
Additionally, should you be looking for some more everyday fashion guidance, have a look at our wishlist for some shopping inspiration. Both high street and high end – we made sure to suit all budgets. And of course, links are included.
Media contact:
Karolina Capova
kaia@thecatwalkmagazine.com
IG: kaia.cpv
General media inbox:
contact@thecatwalkmagazine.com
Follow us on socials:
Sign up for our newsletter and be the first one to know when a new article comes out
