A Chanel bag is for life, not just for Christmas.
Or at least, that’s what we tell customers and buyers, who come to us seeking the status and luxury of a coveted Chanel bag – only to find they are unsure of which model best suits their lifestyle and everyday needs. Because, whether you opt for the Chanel mini or for a larger model, selecting the right Chanel bag for you based on its price, features, and size is an important stage of the buyer process. And it’s one that this blog is designed to help you with, introducing some of the most popular Chanel flap bags and comparing them in light of some key features.
History of the Chanel Classic Flap Bags
Everyone who knows something about fashion will be familiar with the Chanel classic flap bag – featuring the padded exterior and shoulder strap which makes this the height of functional and practical fashion. Chanel debuted the classic flap bag in 1955 and made history, giving women the accessibility of a bag on a shoulder strap – allowing it to be carried while remaining hands-free.
While elements of the classic flap bags have changed and warped over time, with refined details and aesthetic features adding to the look and use of the bags, the concept has remained much the same – a testament to the timeless designs dreamed up by Chanel herself, which has become the original shoulder bag as favoured by buyers of all ages.
With that said, what makes the Chanel classic flap bag suitable for luxury buyers, and which size is the best option for you? Let’s take a closer look at the iconic flap bags and their sizes.
Is the Chanel Mini Square the right bag for you?
The smallest version of the structured bag, the mini square sits neatly on the hip when worn cross-body and just below the hip when slung over one shoulder. A great go-to for buyers seeking a delicate accessory for a day-to-night look, the mini square is large enough to carry the essentials thanks to its shape which optimises the interior space – without feeling too heavy or large.
For everyday use, the Chanel mini square is conducive to crossbody use on both taller and shorter individuals – with the strap drop length sitting at 54cm from top to bottom – while the stylish CC turn-lock closure mechanism adds that little bit of glam that every luxury handbag owner wants from their designer purchase.
Is the Chanel Mini Rectangle the right bag for you?
To compare the Mini Square with the Mini Rectangle, one of the biggest differences between the two lies in the strap length – with the rectangle boasting a longer strap which makes it even better suited to crossbody wear for those with larger frames.
In addition to the extra strap length, the mini rectangle has a little more interior space for larger smartphones, while presenting the same aesthetic value for a day-to-night look. If you’re considering a luxury Chanel mini investment, the mini rectangle is another product which benefits from a vast array of seasonal releases, with different colours available every year.
Is the Chanel Small Classic Flap the right bag for you?
With the same proportions as the Mini Rectangle, the Chanel Small Classic Flap is considered a high-value investment piece – not only because it is one of the signature models which is released in new colours and finishes every year, but because the price of the Small Classic regularly goes up and so purchasing your own piece lets you capitalise on that increased value in the future.
A coveted bag both on the new and resale market, the length of the small classic strap – perfect for shoulder or shorter crossbody wearers – often means that Chanel is more popular than the likes of Hermès which, despite its range of smaller handbags, boasts bags that are built for carrying rather than wearing. Not one for crossbody wearing? The Chanel Small Classic flap bag can also be doubled up in terms of the strap – sitting high under the arm.
Is the Chanel Medium Classic Flap the right bag for you?
A great go-to for day-to-day use, the Chanel Medium Classic Flap can again be worn with doubled straps or a single strap depending on how you choose to wear your bag – over the shoulder, crossbody, or swinging from your arm. The size of the bag itself makes it more practical than the smaller models in many ways, with this bag suitable for days out and carrying those additional essentials that the smaller models don’t allow for.
When worn on one shoulder, buyers may start to notice that the bulk of the medium classic bag means it is more likely to hit your ribs as you move, while crossbody wearers tend to find that the bag impedes arm movement a little when it’s sat above the hip. How the bag can be worn and carried is down to personal preference.
Is the Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap the right bag for you?
The largest Chanel classic bag, the Jumbo Classic Flap is largely seen as the most accessible and practical in terms of its interior capacity. While its bulk and size mean it is not necessarily the easiest to carry crossbody for long periods of time, the amount you can carry in the Jumbo Classic makes it a good investment as a user-friendly model.
The Jumbo Classic has the longest strap of all the Chanel flap bags, and on a smaller frame, it can quickly feel too large worn on one shoulder and crossbody. Having said that, the strap can be doubled over for comfort and usability.
Are Chanel Classic Flap Bags a Good Investment?
Considered the gold standard in flap bags, Chanel handbags are not only a luxury accessory but a high-end investment purchase for buyers. This is because not only do they remain a coveted product on the marketplace, with an endless line of buyers ready to snap up brand new and preloved bags, but they tend to retain their value – meaning that those who buy and then go on to sell their Chanel classic flap bags do not lose as much money as seasonal bags.
Conclusion
The Chanel classic flap bag is available in a range of different sizes, with the best one for you depending on your height, build, and how you choose to use and carry your handbag. For more information on each individual model, our team of experts are here to advise and guide you towards your perfect Chanel.
