The Serendipitous History of the Hermes Birkin
Samantha Jones immortalized the Birkin on Sex in the City in 2001, when she used Lucy Liu's name to jump the five year wait list at an Hermes store. It was the first time many viewers had heard of a handbag waiting list, let alone a bag that cost $4,000 (which is a steal by today's standards). The very notion of it created instant buzz, and the Birkin became part of the America's fashion lexicon overnight. But the bag was already seventeen years old at that point, and it had largely existed under the radar.
Seen by many as the holy grail of accessories, Birkins are the stuff of mythology. From five-year wait lists to Victoria Beckham's supposed one hundred bag collection, they're fixtures in the rumor mill. Many people have told stories of only getting their Birkins after making a bunch of smaller purchases first. At the store, the request to see a Birkin has to be phrased as almost an afterthought. Since they aren't kept on the retail floor, it's casually mentioned once you've committed to spending a small fortune on silk scarves... "Oh, by the way, do you have a Birkin in the back?" The Birkin buying process understandably leads bag owners to exchange war stories. "How did you get yours?" is a common query between those in the Birkin club. And all of this jumping through hoops serves a purpose: the bag's exclusive allure has remained protected. Not just anyone can get a Birkin, one must be in the know. With such limited availability and more than a little mystique surrounding it, it's understandable that the origins of the bag are somewhat murky. Here's an approximate history of the world's premiere handbag.
The Birth of an Hermes Icon
In 1981, British fashion icon Jane Birkin boarded a flight from Paris to London. She accidentally dropped her straw tote while attempting to stuff it overhead, sending its contents flying across the floor. Hermes CEO Jean-Louis Dumas happened to be sitting next to her. As she was picking up her things, she complained about not being able to find a bag that she liked. Stories differ after this point. He alleged that the two ended up spending the flight talking about a bag design, but she maintains that they also sketched the idea for Birkin on a sick bag. However it came about, their idea was similar in shape to the Kelly. Hermes created the first Birkin five years later in 1984.
Jane Birkin has been carrying her namesake bag for decades now, but she's only on her fourth one. She owns one at any given time, waits until they're completely worn before replacing them, and has said that anything more would be frivolous. She has also bemoaned Hermes for making Birkins so heavy, and is known for adorning her bags with stickers and prayer beads. She's not the first Hermes-owner to deface a handbag. For such a costly bag, the Birkin has had a long history of destruction. Francesca Eastwood and her photographer boyfriend notoriously burned one in a 2013 piece of performance art. That same year Kanye famously gifted Kim with a $40,000 one painted by artist George Condo. Lady Gaga has a black one that's encrusted with spikes and a white one that's covered in Japanese writing. The opinions on whether or not its ok to deface Birkins remain split, but it's a powerful statement that basically says "I've got money to burn." For those who like to be sartorial stand-outs, carrying a vandalized Birkin is one of the best ways to get noticed. It's easy to see why the Birkin is so coveted. Its classic styling and impeccable craftsmanship make it a perennial classic. With a shape that transcends trends, a large Birkin carried on the arm is like protective fashion armor. It announces to the world that you are fluent in the language of luxury. And to think that it might have all started with a sketch on an airplane sick bag.
Let customers speak for us
I have purchased many items here and have loved them all! Most recently I found a dream Chanel chocolate brown lambskin Diana! Brooke, and Amber are amazing and so helpful!
As usual, I go in to look at the merchandise. I always go on the website first to view what I will be most interested in seeing. They’re so much fun and helpful. Even though I have my favorites, I look at EVERYTHING. They just let me do my thing. They know me and just check on me periodically while I go about my business 😍.
I always enjoy the excursion❣️
I bought my third bag from Couture. This one is a Chanel. I love it. As usual their merchandise is exquisite
I have purchased many items from Couture. It is my favorite place to shop.
Another marvelous experience with Couture Boutique. I always wanted the Chanel watch with diamonds, the “it” watch and Catherine personally helped me, sent me the two extra links and the watch is absolutely gorgeous, for literally half price from what it sells for at the Chanel boutique. Great merchandise and also great service. I only wish I was closer to Tampa, but I am in the Bay Area. Thanks again for this new addition to my collection.
I decided I need to buy myself a birthday gift and found the most beautiful Gucci satchel. It is like new and perfect size. Couldn’t be happier
A wonderful experience!
The best service and the best prices on top brands. I will definitely be back.
Amazing experience from start to finish. All my questions/concerns were professionally dealt with:) Amber even sent additional information to help me make my purchase. I love the bag & the people who made it possible. Will be back for more…
I was contacted by one of the employees Brooke after letting her know months ago that I was interested in a long Chanel necklace. She contacted me as soon as it came into the shop and sent me pictures, and I went there in person and fell in love with the necklace and purchased it. It was presented in a Chanel box. Everything that I’ve ever purchased from the store is in immaculate shape. The service is impeccable. I love the way they display their purses, shoes, and accessories the store. If they don’t have the bag that you’re looking for, just let Brooke know and she will let you know as soon as it comes into the store. You can’t ask for better service.
I love this place. Prices are realistic for vintage, not like Dillards prices which are too high for vintage brands. Come check it out. You won’t be disappointed. Customer service is always great!
I have purchased several items and each one has not disappointed. They have all been in perfect condition and the pictures and descriptions are always spot on. They have a very quick delivery and that is one of the reasons I keep returning!
The girls ALWAYS know exactly what I want and contact me when a piece comes in. I've NEVER been disappointed with nearly FIFTY purchases thus far.
The ladies at the store were very knowledgeable, personable, and attentive. They worked with me to get my wife the perfect 20th anniversary gift. And even help me pack it up for shipping. Wonderful experience. It will certainly be back to deal with them in the future.
I have been in search for gold jewelry and Couture has delivered in many levels. Thank you Ladies❤️❤️❤️
I had a great experience with a first time order! My Louis Vuitton wallet is gorgeous and looks brand new. It matches my LV bag perfectly. It arrived quickly- about 48 hours after ordering! Amazing service and quality. I will be ordering again!
Couture VIP
Sign up now for exclusive pre-sale alert before anyone else!
+30 OFF your first purchase of $300 or more
