Jane Birkin’s signature ‘60s and ‘70s style consisted of casual t-shirts, breezy dresses, and laid-back jeans—nothing too out of the ordinary for that era. But her bag of choice? Now that might surprise you. The natural beauty was rarely seen without her trademark straw basket. Talk about a no-frills accessory—see proof below. 

So, how did the legendary icon become the namesake of one of the most-lusted after handbags of all time? She was on a flight from Paris to London, where by chance was seated next to Hermés chairman Jean-Louis Dumas. The two supposedly sparked up a conversation after Dumas helped Birkin gather up her belongings, which had spilled out in the overhead compartment…and the rest is handbag history! 

Click through to see Birkin carrying her signature basket.

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Before the Birkin: Jane’s Favorite Pre-Hermés Bag

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Did Birkin’s original handbag choice surprise you? Let us know in the comments below! 

Before the Birkin: Jane’s Favorite Pre-Hermés Bag

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