Birkin: An iconic name that represents the timeless brand of Hermes handbags.
Any association with the product makes one feel special, luxurious and high-end. With Birkin holding such an impactful and untouchable presence in the fashion industry, the story behind the brands name is surprisingly random…
On an airplane to London in 1981, former supermodel Jane Birkin was upgraded to a first class seat that would change the fashion industry forever. While Jane was getting situated, her bag tipped over and everything spilled out. It was there that she reportedly said, “The day Hermes makes one with pockets, I will have that”. Ironically enough, she was seated by current chief executive of Hermes, Jean-Louis Dumas. Dumas responded, “I am Hermes and I will put pockets in for you”. Jane then proceeded to sketch her ideal bag on an airplane sick bag.
Soon after the airplane encounter, Hermes announced its new line of high-end handbags: the Birkin bags. So what’s in it for Jane? Even today, Hermes continues to give money to the namesake icon for her to then donate to a charity of her choice. Moral of the story: next time you’re on an airplane, be conscious of who you may be sitting by – because the luxury brand that we all know and love was first inspired on an airplane sick bag.