The History Behind The Name
The Hermès name began earning its fine reputation nearly 200 years ago as a manufacturer of handmade saddles and other equestrian leather goods. Since then, the brand has continued its focus on providing exquisite quality but has broadened out its product line to include a wide array of luxury items, including bed and bath linens, furniture, silverware, crystal and porcelain, home and office accessories, baby gifts and handbags. The line also recently added a women’s ready-to-wear collection designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier and signature fragrances, too, by in-house perfumer Jean Claude Ellena.
The Birkin bag itself dates back to the 1980s. There are several variations on how this bag came into being, and while the details vary a great deal, one thing all of the versions agree on is that the bag was named for actress Jane Birkin. One popular legend is that the actress was seated on a plane next to Jean-Louis Dumas, the Chairman of Hermès, and complained to him about her current handbag, which wasn’t adequate for her needs. The story goes that Dumas responded by designing a new bag that he named the Birkin. Other stories say that the bag was already in existence and the actress liked it so much that she started a trend and the name was ultimately changed in her honor. Other versions have Birkin carrying a similar bag in Dumas’ presence that was made of canvas and this inspired him to design a high-end model for her. But regardless of which story, or parts of the different stories, is true and quite how the bag came into being, one thing that the fashion world agrees on is that the Birkin is the second purse in the Hermès line to be named after someone famous. The first is the Kelly bag, which took its name from Grace Kelly, who was a large fan of this style and even included it in a photo shoot for a magazine cover.
In Good Company
Many high-profile celebrities and fashion icons are frequently photographed carrying their Birkin bag (or bags). In fact, some Birkin owners have accrued a collection in different colors, sizes and textures. In addition, some of the popular television shows have also featured Birkin bags on their episodes.
One way to confirm a sighting of a Birkin bag, in addition to recognizing its unique tall rectangle shape that narrows at the top with a flap, is the lock that is usually enclosed in a “clochette” or special leather pouch that is attached. Generally, Birkin owners loop the pouch strap through one of the handles. This is a common look you will see if you watch celebrity TV or follow trends in print or online magazines. Of course, since flattery is the highest form of compliment, many Birkin bag imitations also exist. Keep this fact in mind so you won’t forget that not everything that looks like an original Birkin handbag from a distance actually is.