The Birkin story

Undoubtedly the pinnacle of luxury handbags, the Birkin has kept its status as one of the top items in the leather goods hierarchy. Favored by celebrities and socialites alike, the Birkin bag is a timeless piece and one of the most exclusive designs from the illustrious maison Hermès. 

Founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès as a humble saddle workshop, this legendary fashion house boasts a rich and storied heritage in exquisite leather craftsmanship. Today, Hermès still works in the equestrian scene, artfully producing luxurious riding gear, bridles, and harnesses. As the house evolved, Hermès would pivot in new directions and begin crafting a variety of leather goods, from small accessories to jackets. 

Hermès fashioned its first bag in the 1920s, followed by the Kelly bag in 1935, known by the same name as le sac à depèches. Designed on a whim, the Birkin didn’t come about until the mid 1980s, due to a fateful encounter on an evening flight from Paris to London.

British-French actress, singer, and style icon Jane Birkin boarded the flight and sat next to the Hermès chief executive, Jean-Louis Dumas. In addition to her chic style and effortlessly cool allure, Jane was a busy mother of three daughters. Everywhere she went, she carried a large wicker basket of all her essentials. Upon placing her basket in the overhead compartment on the plane, her items spilled out of the unsecured bag all over the cabin.

This prompted a casual conversation between Jane and Jean-Louis.  Not knowing he was an executive for Hermès, Jane said she had always been searching for the perfect tote or weekend bag without success, stating that not even Hermès made a suitable bag. Upon hearing this, Jean-Louis sought more of Jane’s feedback and began to sketch out a rough design for the “Birkin” on the airplane sick bag.

A few years later, the Birkin bag made its debut, with Jane Birkin receiving a special commemorative version that she often personalized with stickers and keyrings. With a quiet launch, the Birkin bag wasn’t an instant sensation. However, the bag’s popularity steadily grew throughout the ‘90s and into the 2000s. By the time the bag had made a memorable cameo in "Sex and the City" in 2001, the Birkin had firmly established itself as an iconic piece.

Now, the birkin can be found crooked on the wrist of a select few around the world. A symbol of status and wealth, as well as a bold fashion statement, the Birkin will never fail to leave a lasting impression. Whether you are looking to find your own bag or are simply admiring the products, you might be able to find something special at the Hermès Boutique in Paris.

To visit the boutique:
24 Rue de Faubourg Saint-Honoré
75008 Paris

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