Birkin rose to fame in the 1960s with the provocative song “Je t’aime,” a duet with her then-partner Serge Gainsbourg. The song, featuring her breathy vocals and suggestive moans instead of a traditional chorus, caused a sensation. The couple famously claimed these sounds were the result of genuine passion, further fueling public intrigue.

In our country, Birkin is fondly remembered for her roles in films like “The Pool” and “Keep an Eye on This.” To the fashion world, she is an enduring icon. Her effortlessly chic style – a mix of micro-miniskirts, red patent boots, men’s shirts, and simple white t-shirts paired with jeans – set trends that women around the globe tried, and often failed, to replicate.

The luxury house Hermès immortalized her by creating the iconic Birkin bag. Considered a status symbol, the bag achieved legendary status. A decade ago, acquiring one required a long waitlist. Today, even securing a place on the waitlist is no guarantee; eager buyers must now directly contact boutique managers to inquire about the possibility of purchasing one.

The story of the bag’s creation is a testament to Birkin’s influence. In the 1980s, while traveling on an Air France flight, she spilled the contents of her bag onto the floor. Jean-Louis Dumas, then CEO of Hermès, sitting beside her, suggested she needed a bag with inner pockets. This casual conversation led to the creation of the iconic handbag.

In a memorable 2016 television appearance on the Japanese show “Smap x Smap,” Birkin showcased her own well-worn Birkin bag. To the hosts’ delight, she then presented them with new, signed Birkin bags. However, to everyone’s surprise, she immediately proceeded to throw the bags on the floor and begin stomping on them, stretching the leather.

With a smile, she remarked, “Look, it’s just a bag, just use it for its purpose.” This anecdote perfectly encapsulates Birkin’s unconventional spirit and disdain for excessive materialism.