The birth of the Birkin: How a chance encounter created fashion’s ultimate icon

The Hermès Birkin may now stand as the ultimate symbol of status and exclusivity, but it began by chance — the result of a spilled purse and a serendipitous meeting on a short flight."The birth of the Birkin is a meet-cute in a romantic comedy. It's an adorable story," began Marisa Meltzer, author of the new book "It Girl: The Life and Legacy of Jane Birkin."Meltzer’s book, released Oct. 7, delves into the creation of the Birkin and the life of its namesake, Jane Birkin, the English-born actress and singer who became a French icon.THE MYSTIQUE OF HERMÈS: THE BIRKIN IS A RARE INVESTMENT THAT DE