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Jane Birkin's Iconic Bag: From Spill to $10M Auction

10/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 1984, Hermès created the Birkin after Jane Birkin spilled her purse on a flight and discussed her ideal bag with Jean-Louis Dumas of Hermès, who sketched it on an air sickness bag.
Author Marisa Meltzer recounts this origin in "It Girl: The Life and Legacy of Jane Birkin."
The Birkin has become a valuable investment, with an original bag selling at auction for over $10 million.

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Story summary

In 1984, Hermès created the Birkin after Jane Birkin spilled her purse on a flight and discussed her ideal bag with Jean-Louis Dumas of Hermès, who sketched it on an air sickness bag.
Author Marisa Meltzer recounts this origin in "It Girl: The Life and Legacy of Jane Birkin."
The Birkin has become a valuable investment, with an original bag selling at auction for over $10 million.