While Jane Birkin's name became synonymous with the luxury Hermès handbag, the British-French-style icon showcased a depth of talent and influence. Across her dynamic career, Jane Birkin also encompassed acting and songwriting, making her a highly acclaimed personality. The renowned British singer and actress, passed away at the age of 76, leaving an indelible mark in the world of art, music, and fashion. In memory of Jane Birkin who died on 16 July 2023, take a glimpse into her journey through the years.

Jane Mallory Birkin came into existence on December 14, 1946, in Marylebone, London. Her mother, Judy Campbell, was a renowned English stage actress, while her father, David Birkin, served as a lieutenant commander in the Royal Navy and World War II spy.

Andrew Birkin, her brother has made a name for himself as both a screenwriter and a director, primarily known for his work on films such as The Pied Piper (1972) and The Thief of Baghdad (1978).

The Franco-British actress's childhood was spent in Chelsea, London, where she described herself as a "shy English girl". She revealed that she was subjected to bullying for her looks, particularly during her time at boarding school.

The international star was educated at Miss Ironside's School in Kensington. In addition to her educational experiences, she attended Upper Chine School on the Isle of Wight.

Birkin was only 17 years old when she met composer John Barry, whom she married in 1965. They have a daughter, Kate Barry, who was born in 1967.

The icon actress initiated her career in film and television roles by participating in auditions both in England and Los Angeles. She gained prominence within the vibrant Swinging London scene during the 1960s.

In 1968, despite not speaking French, she successfully auditioned for the leading female role in the French film Slogan (1969). This marked the beginning of her collaboration with the renowned French actor and composer, Serge Gainsbourg as they co-starred in the film and even performed together on its theme song, "La Chanson de Slogan".

After wrapping up the filming of Slogan, the actress made France her permanent home in the late 1960s and eventually obtained French citizenship.

Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg formed a well-known couple for ten years. Their relationship gained further significance when they welcomed their daughter, Charlotte Gainsbourg, into the world in 1971.

Serge Gainsbourg and Birkin released the greatest duet song "Je t'aime... moi non plus", originally written by Gainsbourg for the famous French singer and actress Brigitte Bardot. The song has earned its place as one of the most iconic duets in French music.

Following a temporary pause from acting in 1971 and 1972, she made a comeback on the screen, starring alongside Brigitte Bardot in Don Juan (1973).

In 1975, the Anglo-French singer made a notable appearance in Gainsbourg's directorial debut, "Je t'aime moi non plus." She received a nomination for the Best Actress César Award for her performance.

Following her separation from Serge Gainsbourg in 1980, Jane Birkin went on to pursue her career as both an actress and a singer, featuring in diverse independent films and releasing multiple solo albums.

The multifaceted personality was known for always carrying a hand-woven straw basket from Castro Marim in Algarve, Portugal everywhere until the French film director and screenwriter Jacques Doillon intentionally ran it over with his car.

The epitome of French style secured several awards for her accomplishments, including Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2001 and the Silver Lion prize at the 1985 Venice Film Festival in 2018.

The iconic Birkin bag was created in 1984 by Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas for Jane Birkin after she expressed her difficulty in finding a suitable leather weekend bag. The Birkin bag has since become a symbol of luxury and status.

In 2016, the Anglo-French model, Birkin participated in a continuous campaign for Yves Saint Laurent captured by Hedi Slimane, alongside several musicians such as Joni Mitchell, Marianne Faithfull, and Courtney Love.

Jane Birkin released the album "Birkin/Gainsbourg: Le Symphonique" on March 24, 2017. The album features Gainsbourg's songs dedicated to her from their time together.

The late actress is a mother of three children, photographer Kate Barry with her first husband John Barry, actress and singer Charlotte Gainsbourg with Serge Gainsbourg, and musician Lou Doillon with Jacques Doillon.