Birkin Chic
“Why don’t you design a bag 4 times the size of a Kelly that can be left open?”
The recent passing of British-born actress & singer Jane Birkin has highlighted her iconic influence on fashion and probably the most desired status bag ever created. What’s the fuss about ??
Jane Birkin was never precious about her eponymous Hermes bags and in her lifetime owned only five. Owning only one at a time, 4 bags were auctioned off at charities. Annual royalty payments sent to her by Hermes of $40,000 were also donated and will continue following her death.
Bored with the plain look every Hermes was decorated with stickers, beads, charms, and toys adding a personal sense of ownership. And in a world of Birkins adding her individuality …who else would cover such an expensive bag in stickers….Yikes
The famous encounter between Birkin & Hermes Chief Executive on a flight in 1981 which led to the original bag design being drawn on an airline sickbag has been retold many times. The star explained how difficult it was to find a bag big enough to carry all her needs.
The iconic bag launched in 1984 became a universal status symbol. The greatest IT bag ever with many becoming investments …you can’t just buy a Birkin you are added to a list.
If you follow me on Instagram you know I have amassed a huge collection of Birkin & Kelly bags. None are Hermes, out of my price range, unfortunately….however they are very dear to me. Collected over 30 years from Vintage fairs, and online auctions to New York thrift stores ..at present I have about 30.
Why do you always carry a Birkin?
Simply put …they carry everything I need..they are versatile for travelling, shopping, and working …a great shape but the fact the bags can be locked and I can carry the key separately ..how many bags have that function. It’s a statement bag women & men stare it’s a trophy look.. it’s my personal stamp ..this bag is me
Star-style Birkins.
Birkins over the years have ranged in sizes, finishes, painted and studded.
Hermes Birkins can have a 6 years waitlist. Known to cost upwards of $10,000, the bag an emblem of a relationship between designer goods and practicality gives an air of exclusivity to its fortuitous owner.
To read more about my bags hit the link below