This afternoon I rewatched Jacques Deray's La Piscine (1969), starring French favorites Romy Schneider, Alain Delon, Maurice Ronet, and Jane Birkin in a classic love triangle set in the heart of St. Tropez. While I was engrossed in the film's atmosphere and ability to so easily transport me to the world of the characters, I found that I could not pull myself away from the outfits: Alain Delon in a fisherman's sweater, Romy Schneider in her monochromatic bathing suits, but more specifically, Jane Birkin in her notorious, short, a-line summer dress. I was so incredibly eager to find a white linen cover-up just seconds after finishing. Jane had the kind of summer wardrobe I could only dream of. 

Jane Birkin, celebrated for her roles as an actress, activist, and singer, stands as an eternal icon of fashion and self-expression. Her influence transcends generations, as she penned the epitome of timeless style. Whether donning her signature ensemble of jeans and a white tee, or awing audiences with her cut-off crochet mini, Birkin's casual yet captivating allure has made a serious mark on the world of fashion. Her legacy continues to inspire and shape the way women dress, perpetually redefining standards of elegance and grace. 

Birkin Bangs

One of Jane's most notorious features, her fringe, gained popularity all throughout the 1970s (and even today) as her carefree and effortless style catered to women of all ages. Serving as the perfect accessory, Jane made this her most recognizable feature, even coining the term, 'Birkin Bangs.'

Menswear

Birkin often wore tailored pieces such as blazers, trousers, and button-up shirts in a relaxed, unisex manner. This style encouraged both men and women to embrace a more fluid approach to dressing, incorporating traditionally feminine silhouettes or masculine elements into their wardrobes. 

White T-Shirt & Jeans

Birkin's preference for high-quality, well-fitted basics emphasized the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail in creating a polished look. By taking a basic white t-shirt and jeans and pairing them with accessories such as statement belts, scarves, or tailored blazers, she demonstrated the versatility of this ensemble, proving that it could transition seamlessly from casual daywear to more sophisticated evening attire. 

A-line Dresses

The A-line silhouette, which flares out from the waist, accentuated Jane's frame while providing a comfortable and easy-to-wear option for various occasions. Birkin's penchant for bohemian style infused her dresses with a sense of eclectic charm. Often adorned with whimsical prints, delicate embroidery, or playful details like lace-trim, these dresses exuded a laid-back yet romantic allure that became synonymous with Birkin's personal style. 

Basket Bags

Birkin's choice of a basket bag epitomized her signature blend of casual elegance. the natural, rustic charm of the straw material added a laid-back, summery vibe to her outfits, effortlessly complementing her bohemian-inspired style. Her nonchalant way of carrying a simple, woven basket as a handbag captured the imagination of fashion enthusiasts worldwide, transforming it from a humble market tote into a coveted, must-have item. 

Vests

Birkin often embraced androgynous fashion elements, and by incorporating vests into her wardrobe, she blurred traditional gender boundaries and showcased a more tailored, structured silhouette that added a touch of refinement to her outfits. Vests were also a key component of Birkin's layered looks, whether worn over a crisp white shirt for a preppy vibe, or layered under a blazer for added warmth and texture. Whether dresses up with tailored trousers and heels or dressed down with jeans and sneakers, Birkin showed that vests could elevate any outfit.