Birkin Bag

The story of a fashion icon

We’ve all heard of the famous Birkin Bag at least once. But did you know that the story of this high-end style icon wasn’t an immediate success? For more than ten years after its creation, the Birkin was just another luxury item, without gaining recognition on the Glamour stage.

When did the Birkin Bag become an icon?

It was only in the late 1990s that it became a chic and elite status symbol, thanks to movie stars and celebrities who began showcasing it. However, it was certain events at the start of the new millennium that turned it into a pop culture phenomenon, such as the famous episode of the TV series Sex and the City, where one of the protagonists, the stunning Samantha, embarks on her personal and desperate search for the most elusive bag: a Birkin. She is placed on a five-year waiting list, further fueling the myth of this iconic accessory.

When was the Birkin Bag created?

The story of the Birkin’s creation is linked to a unique anecdote that took place on a flight between Paris and London in 1984. Imagine one of the most celebrated actresses of the time stepping off an Air France plane, her long hair flowing over her shoulders, exuding effortless charm, and carrying a large sports bag she used for traveling between the two European capitals. That woman was Jane Birkin, and during that short one-hour flight, she would sketch one of the most desired fashion items of all time: the BIRKIN BAG!

By pure coincidence, a distinguished gentleman was seated right next to her in first class. Wearing a dark but understated suit, he had the typical appearance of a "white-collar worker." Not particularly striking, with a receding hairline, a slight build, but lively eyes. That seemingly ordinary man was actually Jean-Louis Dumas, the president and artistic director of one of the most prestigious French fashion houses, synonymous with luxury even today. From 1978 to 2006, Jean-Louis helped build the great reputation of Hermès!

As Jane rummaged through her sports bag, her diary fell out—a planner she never parted with, where she jotted down ideas, projects, appointments, and secrets. And the planner was none other than Hermès! Her seatmate, unable to resist a professional instinct, jokingly remarked: “My dear, you should consider getting a bag with proper pockets for this kind of travel.” But Jane, never shy, smiled and replied: “My sports bag will retire when Hermès makes one!” That was it—the challenge was accepted! Jean-Louis’s expression changed, and like a child in front of an irresistible treat, he excitedly began sketching, doodling, and drafting designs, with Jane playfully joining in… By the time they landed, the BIRKIN BAG was born!

How long does it take to get a Birkin Bag?

There are multiple factors—both time and cost. First of all, only a few Birkin bags are produced each year. The creative line releases only a limited number of models, which remain in production for just a few seasons, making the bag extremely rare and hard to find. So how can you get one? Of course, you could have an unlimited budget and be lucky enough to find a boutique willing to sell you one. But the standard way is to be a loyal customer of an Hermès boutique, making regular purchases to earn the trust of the owner and get the privilege of being placed on the waiting list... which can last for years!

How much does a Birkin cost?

Talking about money in relation to such an exclusive item might seem inappropriate, but for us mere mortals, it’s an interesting curiosity. We know that a Birkin starts at around €7,000, but it’s well known that certain exclusive models easily surpass several tens of thousands of euros.

What is the most expensive handbag in the world?

A Birkin, of course! A rare Birkin Faubourg model, produced in only fifty pieces, was created in 2019 for Hermès VIP clients and was inspired by the brand’s Parisian boutique. This bag was sold for an astonishing €158,000.

Beware! Even great love stories can end

And that’s how in 2015, Jane Birkin requested that her name be removed from the bag. In September 2015, Jane declared: “After being informed about the cruel practices inflicted on crocodiles during their slaughter for the production of Hermès bags bearing my name, I have asked the Hermès group to rename the Birkin.” Indeed, it takes up to three adult crocodiles to produce a single Birkin bag, and they are not bred in captivity. In a world increasingly aware of ethical concerns, the future of Birkin bags may become more complicated... but we bet the name will never change!

Can I have a Birkin?

And this is the question we love answering the most: YES! And for just a few euros and a little creativity! In fact, on the Tessiland website, you’ll find a BIRKIN BAG set in eco-leather, perfect for creating this style icon in no time, with the structure, color, and stitch of your choice. Yes, because we’re talking about a crochet Birkin bag that you can make using a special crochet bag cord like THAI SUBLIME, available in over 40 solid shades, in a gradient version with THAI SUBLIME SFUMATO, or even with a touch of lurex for an extra chic effect using THAI SUBLIME LUX.

Watch the step-by-step tutorial to create the Birkin Bag