As far as handbags go, it doesn’t get more iconic than the Hermès Birkin. In addition to its fabled years-long waiting list, the accessory has inspired a tell-all memoir and a Sex and the City episode. Its namesake is a pretty epic force herself: actress and singer Jane Birkin. Although Birkin has been associated with the highly coveted carry all since 81 — when then Hermès president Jean-Louis Dumas was inspired to produce the perfect leather weekender after sitting next to her on a plane — she now wants the bag renamed.
As Yahoo! News reported earlier today, Birkin stated that she has recently learned of the “cruel” methods used to produce the crocodile skin bag and wishes to end her association due to animal-rights objections. “Having been alerted to the cruel practices reserved for crocodiles during their slaughter to make Hermès handbags carrying my name … I have asked Hermès to debaptize the Birkin Croco until better practices in line with international norms can be put in place,” Birkin said.
“[Jane’s] comments do not in any way influence the friendship and confidence that we have shared for many years. Hermès respects and shares her emotions and was also shocked by the images recently broadcast,” the brand stated in response, before outlining its ethical treatment standards.
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Text Emily Manning
Image via WikiMedia Commons