Chanel Classic Flap

I’ve coveted over Chanel’s classic flap bag for quite some time, and did my fair share of research before purchasing the bag of my dreams—finding three reasons to justify it’s hefty price tag.  If you find yourself straddling the fence like me, a year ago, take a look at my detailed debrief on Chanel’s Classic Flap before running to the store. 

1.     High Return on Investment Ratio :  Fashionistas and Wall Street financial investors will both agree that the Chanel’s classic flap is a worthy investment.  Without changing much since it’s inception in February of 1955, hence 2.55, this bag never ages, makes you feel like a million dollars, and if you had to own one bag, this is it. 

If you purchased Chanel’s Jumbo Classic Flap in 2010, it was merely $2650.  Currently, after a series of crippling price increases, the bag sells for $4900 :

                            

With nearly a 85% increase in a little less than 3 years, purchasing a Classic Chanel is better than investing in the S&P 500, with it’s volatile up’s and downs, and even cars, that depreciate the moment you drive it off the lot with an additional 15-20% each year. 

 

2.     Durable:  When investing in a handbag, or anything in general, you want to be sure its durable.  Usually, pretty things are frail and fragile, but not this bag.  If you opt for caviar, your bag is pretty much indestructible.  Not that I suggest doing this, but even if you scratch it with your nails, carry it through a light drizzle, and have it endure daily abuse with you from everyday tasks and errands, your bag will still retain the same shape, luster, and elegance! 

3.     Investing in a handmade piece of artwork:  Intertwining art and history, the classic flap, designed by Coco Chanel herself, holds historic significance, and symbolizes the development of female independence. 

The bag perfectly balances form and function.  Realizing that women needed their hands during social events, Coco Chanel designed a handbag with a double leather threaded chain strap that could be worn over the shoulder, as opposed to popular clutches at the time.  The bag has a back compartment to store cash, and as rumored, a zippered inside compartment for Coco Chanel’s love letters.  Adding the final touch, she gave the bag more shape and volume by incorporating a quilted diamond pattern. 

Personally, I have a soft spot for art and history.  For me, Chanel is not only an elegant work of art, but also has a rich heritage and timeless design.  A bag with such a splendid story, merits mention. 

Some fashion observers may deem the Classic Flap as played out, but I beg to differ. 

In Coco Chanel’s book, “A girl must be two things, Classy and Elegant”--she designed the perfect bag that epitomizes fashion, confidence, and elegance!  

Here are answers to frequently asked questions regarding price, size, hardware, and color for Chanel's Classic Flap.  

If it's your first Chanel, I suggest going with classic black and gold hardware if you want something more dressy and elegant, or black and silver if you're looking for more of an everyday bag.  

Lambskin looks more feminine, but because I'm rather clumsy, and looking for something that will last and withstand wear and tear, I always opt for caviar.  

Personally I have both the Jumbo Classic Flap in black caviar leather, with gold and silver hardware~  something my mom and I picked out together!  

Current 2013 Prices without tax: (see new post for price updates)

Mini:                 $2200

New Mini:       $2100

Medium:           $4400

Jumbo:             $4900

Maxi:                $5300

Cheapest Price for Jumbo: 

France, Germany, Austria, Spain, Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, Ireland

3100 EUR or $4170 USD

Bag Dimensions:

Mini: 17 x 13 x 6.5 cm                                                                      6.5” x 5” x 2.5”

Medium: 25.5 x15 x 6.5 cm                                                            10” x 6”x 2.5”

Jumbo:  30.5 x 20 x 7.5 cm                                                            12” x 8” x 3”

Maxi:  33 x 23 x 10 cm                                                                     13” x 9” x 4”