Tell me about: The Chanel Classic Flap Bag

The Chanel Classic Flap Bag is one of the most iconic and timeless designs in the world of fashion. 

Since its creation in 1955, it has become a symbol of luxury, craftsmanship, and elegance. Designed by Coco Chanel herself, it has since become a regular staple in collections of the famous French fashion house.

The story of the Classic Flap Bag began with Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, who wanted to create a bag that was both beautiful and utilitarian. Drawing inspiration from the straps found on soldiers’ bags, she created a bag with a chain strap that could be worn on the shoulder or across the body. The bag was designed with functionality in mind, with multiple pockets and compartments to hold everything from lipstick to money. Originally called the 2.55, after the month and year it was introduced, and quickly became a favourite among Chanel’s clients. 

Over the years, the design of the Classic Flap Bag has remained largely unchanged, with the signature quilted leather and interlocking CC logo becoming a hallmark of the brand. The bag has been made in a variety of colours and materials, including lambskin, caviar leather, and exotic skins like alligator and python.

The Classic Flap Bag has been carried by many famous women throughout its history, including Jackie Kennedy Onassis, who was often seen carrying a quilted Chanel bag. Other famous clients include Princess Diana, who was gifted a special edition bag with a single gold chain, and modern fashion icons like Rihanna and Blake Lively.

Today, Chanel continues to produce the Classic Flap, as well as other iconic bags like the Boy Bag and the Gabrielle Bag.

The Chanel Classic Flap Bag is one of the most iconic fashion accessories and has become a staple in the Chanel collection for more than six decades. The Classic Flap Bag has been made in a variety of materials, colours, and sizes, and has been updated with new design features over the years. Below are the main types of Chanel Classic Flap Bags:

1. Classic Flap Bag: Lambskin Leather – The classic style of the Chanel Flap Bag was originally created using lambskin leather, which is known for its softness and how comfortable it feels to the touch. These bags are available in a range of colours, from classic black to bright pink.

2. Classic Flap Bag: Caviar Leather – The caviar leather version of the Chanel Classic Flap Bag was introduced in the 1990s as a more durable option compared to the lambskin leather bags. The caviar leather is pebbled and has a more texturised surface that resists scratches and wear.

3. Classic Flap Bag: Patent Leather – The Glossy finish of patent leather adds a stunning shine to the already elegant and timeless design of the classic flap bag. The patent leather bags were first introduced in 1994, and are still produced today in a range of colours and sizes.

4. Classic Flap Bag: Tweed – Chanel introduced the first version of the tweed Classic Flap Bag in 2015, which is the combination of soft wool and vibrant tweed. These bags are available in a few colours, and each has a unique tweed pattern combined with the iconic CC signature.

5. Classic Flap Bag: Exotic Leathers – These days, Chanel offers the Classic Flap Bag in exotic materials like alligator, crocodile, and python. But the price point of these exotic leathers is towards the high, hence this is a very rare and limited version of the legendary classic flap bag.

6. Mini Classic Flap Bag – This is a smaller version of the traditional flap bag design, with dimensions of 20 cm x 13 cm. The mini classic flap bag is perfect for a girl on any occasion and has become increasingly popular for modern fashionistas.

7. Jumbo Classic Flap Bag – The jumbo classic flap bag is a larger version of the traditional flap bag design, with the dimensions of 30 cm x 20 cm x 10 cm, and is often carried by celebrities.

8. Limited Edition Classic Flap Bags – Each offers a unique twist or take on the iconic Chanel design, with unique materials, colours, designs and some sometimes featuring intricate and special embellishments like embedded pearls or fur. These unique designs are available in very limited numbers and are also sometimes available as exclusive capsule collections.

Auctions are often the ideal place to find these special edition bags, many of which have remained in private collections and cannot be purchased retail. 

These diligently curated  Designer Handbag and Fashion sales are a very exciting addition to our auction calendar, from not just a sustainability standpoint, but also allowing clients the opportunity to obtain rare (due to waiting lists at luxury retailers) and scarce (due to high demand), high-quality handbags. While we never advocate buying for investment, iconic bags in good condition will always resell well.

At Elmwood’s we can guarantee authenticity, as well as a transparent end-to-end auction service, whether buying or selling. As the company progresses, we are continuing to innovate the auction industry, making it accessible to all, while bringing a little bit of luxury, in the form of jewellery, watches or designer handbags within reach. And with 0% selling fees across all categories, it’s never been easier.

If you would like to receive an expert valuation for a single piece or an entire collection of Chanel Elmwood’s are here to help you navigate this specialist market and achieve the highest prices possible. 

With a global network of buyer’s and an international presence, Elmwood’s is the ideal place to both buy and sell your designer handbags and fashion. With 0% seller’s fees and lifetime authenticity guarantee, you can sell, bid, buy and love with complete confidence. 

Contact us today for a free, no obligation expert valuation.