In a saddening turn of events, the world mourns the loss of Jane Birkin, the musician, model, and eternal style icon who passed away at the age of 76.
Although born in Britain, she embraced France as her home and breathed her last in her Parisian apartment on July 16, 2023.
Among her numerous artistic endeavors, Birkin’s effortless ‘French girl’ style resonated deeply with people across generations. Her timeless fashion choices, such as her nonchalant fringe, layered necklaces, vintage denim, peasant blouses, and classic white t-shirts, consistently placed her decades ahead of the ever-evolving fashion trends.
Emirates Woman pays tribute to the late Jane Birkin and reminisces about her iconic French girl style that style that continues to inspire many.
The Birkin Bag
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One of the most famous and coveted handbags in the world, the Hermès Birkin bag, was actually named after Jane Birkin. It all started when she sat next to Jean-Louis Dumas, the CEO of Hermès, on a flight. The story goes that her straw bag spilled its contents, and she expressed her frustration with finding a good leather weekend bag. Dumas then designed the iconic Birkin bag based on her specifications, and the rest is history.
The Flared Jeans
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Birkin was often seen wearing flared jeans, which became one of her signature looks. She paired them with simple white t-shirts and relaxed blouses, creating a laid-back and effortless style that remains influential to this day.
The Basket Bag
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Birkin’s love for straw bags extended beyond her encounter with Jean-Louis Dumas. She frequently sported basket bags, showcasing her natural and carefree aesthetic. Her choice of straw bags added a touch of bohemian flair to her outfits.
The Trench Coat
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Birkin had a knack for making classic pieces look effortlessly cool. She often wore a trench coat, whether as a dress or layered over other outfits. Her ability to style it in different ways made the trench coat a timeless staple in her wardrobe.
The White Button-Down Shirt
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Birkin’s style was often characterized by simplicity and minimalism. She frequently wore a crisp white button-down shirt, which became a signature piece in her wardrobe. Whether tucked into jeans or paired with a skirt, she showed how a basic staple could be elevated with the right accessories and attitude.
The Bohemian Dresses
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Birkin embraced the bohemian aesthetic, and flowing maxi dresses were a staple in her wardrobe. She often chose vintage-inspired floral prints, loose silhouettes, and natural fabrics, capturing the essence of 1970s fashion.
The Effortless Hair
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Birkin’s hairstyle, a tousled and natural-looking shag, became an iconic part of her overall style. Her shoulder-length hair, often accompanied by bangs, added to her laid-back and carefree image.
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Images: Getty Images, Instagram @janebirkindaily, @hermes_community