Singer Jane Birkin is no longer willing to be associated with the cruelty involved in the production of the “Birkin Croco” bag, a luxurious crocodile skin accessory named after her. In a press release on July 28th, Birkin’s representative announced her request for Hermès to rename the iconic bag. The decision came after Birkin became aware of the inhumane treatment of crocodiles during the production process. As a signatory of the “Mercy for Animals” campaign against animal cruelty, Birkin has asked Hermès to change the bag’s name until international standards for ethical practices are implemented.
The move follows a campaign by animal rights organization PETA, which aimed to pressure Hermès into ceasing the use of exotic skins and selling accessories made from crocodile and alligator skin. PETA’s investigation revealed distressing footage of crocodiles residing in dismal conditions and being slaughtered before reaching adulthood. Upon witnessing these images, Hermès expressed shock and emphasized its commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards in crocodile treatment among its partners.
The “Birkin Croco” is renowned as one of the world’s most expensive bags. It was originally designed in 1984 for Jane Birkin following a chance encounter with Hermès’ president at the time, Jean-Louis Dumas. Birkin expressed her inability to find a practical yet stylish bag, leading to the creation of this iconic accessory. Handcrafted by a single artisan in France, it takes between 18 and 25 hours to complete each bag. The starting price for this coveted Hermès item is 33,000 euros, although second-hand Birkin Croco bags have fetched exorbitant prices at auctions.
Recently, a fuchsia Diamond Birkin handbag made from crocodile skin sold for a record-breaking 202,000 euros at an auction. The “Birkin Croco” is not just a handbag; it represents the epitome of the Hermès brand. However, losing its namesake may tarnish the bag’s grandeur. As discussions surrounding Birkin’s decision continue to buzz on Twitter, Hermès faces the risk of negative publicity and a potential reputation crisis.
[Useful links] – Mercy for Animals– PETA
