In a world where trends fade overnight and luxury goods lose their shine, one handbag has managed to defy the rules of fashion economics.

The Hermès Birkin straddles the line between luxury and investment, prized as much for its financial value as for its iconic design.

Named for the actress Jane Birkin , the bag carries the same air of effortless elegance, its mix of function and glamour making it as desirable today as when it first appeared in the 1980s.

"She had a wild and wonderful career and is definitely worth knowing about," explained Marisa Meltzer, author of the new book " It Girl: The Life and Legacy of Jane Birkin ."

The Birkin has joined the ranks of gold, art, and real estate as a place to park wealth.

"It's something that doesn't lose its value the way most fashion

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