The Life and Times of Jane Birkin: From Hermès Bag to Hollywood Icon

July 16, 2023, 3:30 p.m. Entertainment

Jane Birkin is a British actress and model who is perhaps best known for her work in the 1960s with French film director Serge Gainsbourg. She also had a brief career as a singer in the early 1970s. In recent years, she has been more widely known for her work as an ambassador for the Hermès fashion house, particularly their iconic Birkin handbag which is named after her.

Birkin was born in London in 1946 to two actors, Judy Campbell and David Birkin. She began her career as a child actress, appearing in films such as The Happiest Days of Your Life (1950) and The Little Hut (1957). She also had a small role in the Beatles film A Hard Day's Night (1964).

In the 1960s, Birkin became associated with the French New Wave film movement through her work with Serge Gainsbourg. The two collaborated on a number of films including La Pacha (1968) and Je t'aime... moi non plus (1969). They also had a highly publicized and somewhat controversial relationship which ended in the early 1970s.

Birkin's singing career began in the early 1970s with the release of her self-titled debut album. She had moderate success with this album and its follow-up, Baby Alone in Babylone (1973). She also released a duet with Gainsbourg, "Je t'aime... moi non plus", which was a huge hit in France.

In the 1980s, Birkin's career began to slow down. She appeared in a few films, but nothing that matched her earlier work. It was during this decade that she became more closely associated with the Hermès fashion house. She was frequently seen carrying their iconic Birkin handbag, which was named after her.

In recent years, Birkin has continued to work as an ambassador for Hermès. She has also been more active in films, appearing in such movies as The Bling Ring (2013) and The Love Punch (2013). She is also set to appear in the upcoming film My Old Lady (2014).

Jane Birkin is a true Hollywood icon. She has led a fascinating life, both in front of and behind the camera. She is also responsible for one of the most iconic fashion items of the past few decades. There is no doubt that Birkin will continue to be a relevant and interesting figure in the years to come.