Last Updated on March 16, 2025 by Eve Dawes
Chanel classic flap bags are iconic & instantly transform your outfit in the best possible way | Here’s why to own or rent one
Chanel Classic Flap Bags will forever be a classic but there are so many things to consider before buying: color, size, type of leather, how will I style it, single or Chanel double flap bag etc. Because the price of Chanel bags tends to be higher and they can be harder to get hold of, I wanted to share my honest review so you can decide which one’s right for you. Or if it’s even right for you! The Chanel Classic Flap bag has been around since Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel introduced it back in 1955 (now known as the 2.55) which shows its a purse that’s truly stood the test of time. If you’re looking for an investment piece, the Chanel classic flap bag also tends to retain its value pretty well. Keep reading for my full Chanel Classic Flap Bag review and answers to the most commonly asked questions.
This article contains affiliate links.
What’s the difference between the Chanel single and double flap handbag?
The Chanel flap bag comes in either a double or single flap. The Chanel classic single flap was discontinued in 2014. However, you can still pick up pre-owned styles through consignment stores like Fashionphile and The RealReal. The single flap, like the name suggests is your single outer flap that is secured by the CC turn clasp.
The double flap bag is called the double flap as it has a second shorter flap inside that covers the main compartment. I like both but the double flap does give added protection. I’ve had things like my comb fall out of my single flap bag.
Which Chanel flap bag should I get?
The Chanel classic flap bag is one of Chanel’s most timeless best sellers. Thanks to it’s structured design, classic CC turnlock, versatility, the amount of ways you can carry it, various materials, sizes, colors and hardware choices. There’s really something for everyone, so let’s take a look at some of the things to consider.
What’s the best size to get?
Bag sizes are so personal and really based on how and when you’re planning to use it. If you’re wanting to use it as an evening bag, I’d suggest going for a smaller size. If it’s for the day and you’re intending to carry half of your life around in it, then you’ll probably want anything from the Chanel medium flap bag to the Maxi size. It’s best, if you get a chance to go into a store, to try the different sizes against you’re frame too, to see what suits you the best.
This red bag in the photos is the Chanel medium flap bag, which measures 6” x 9.5” x 2.5”. It’s one of those bag sizes that works for both the day and night. It’s big enough for things like my sunglasses case, wallet, phone, and makeup, but not so big it’s overwhelming with a cocktail dress. Although I tend to put my phone in the back exterior pocket so I don’t have to keep opening and closing the bag.
The Chanel Classic Flap bag comes in these sizes:
So figure out what you’ll get the most use out of.
What’s leather is best: Caviar or Lambskin?
The Chanel classic flap bag comes in various leathers and materials, but if you’re torn between caviar or lambskin there’s a few things you need to know. As much as I love the look of lambskin leather I prefer the caviar leather because it’s so much more durable and scratches less easily. My Prada tote hardly shows any wear even after 15 years versus my Dior lambskin bag whose handles have worn bare. Caviar leather also holds its structure better than lambskin.
However, for those of you who don’t mind scratches and prefer a softer leather might prefer Lambskin. Yes it’s more fragile and is prone to losing its shape faster over time but its glossy finish is so pretty and it does tend to look and feel more luxurious than other leathers. So if you go for the lambskin, enjoy its supple feel but make sure you take proper care of it. Which means storing it in its dust bag with the chains placed inside when it’s not in use. As well as being careful your rings, watch and bracelets don’t scratch it.
What hardware should I choose?
Again, this is really personal and there are a lot Chanel bag hardware options to choose from. I’ll always be a classic gold Chanel girl but the flap bag is also available with silver or champagne hardware.
There’s no right or wrong. It’s all down to personal preference and what jewelry you usually wear. Gold tones just feel more timeless, classic and luxurious to me. It also goes with all of my other gold jewelry and accessories.
I wish Chanel still used 24 Carat gold on their hardware. That’s one of the reasons I prefer vintage Chanel bags as prior to 2008 Chanel used 24-carat gold plate. This red Chanel flap bag is from the 1990’s and has real 24-carat gold hardware. There may not be a difference to the naked eye but I know and at this price point, real gold makes me feel better!
What does Matelassé mean?
You’ll see the word Matelassé a lot when it comes to designer bags. It’s a French word that means a weaving or stitching technique that gives a quilted or padded pattern that’s so often seen on Chanel and Gucci bags.
What color should I buy?
If you wear a whole spectrum of colors you might prefer neutrals like black, beige or white as that will go with more of your clothes. If you don’t have a luxury bag in a neutral color, you can’t go wrong with these. I’m big on getting the most cost per wear from my investments and classic neutrals tend to do that.
However, if your style is more monochromatic and you already have neutral designer bags, a color is an easy way to give a color pop to your outfits.
If you’re going for a color, have a look through your wardrobe 1st and make sure you have lots of outfits it’ll go with so it doesn’t sit unused. Also consider renting it or a bag in the color you’re considering first before buying to see how much you use it. I’d never owned a red quilted bag but I planned my outfits in advance, so I knew it wouldn’t just stay in it’s dust bag.
Bold and beautiful: The iconic red Chanel Flap Bag
The red Chanel classic flap bag is really popular with celebrities. As seen on Elsa Hosk, Kirsten Dunst, Nicky Hilton, Gigi Hadid, Kris Jenner, Myleene Klass, Victoria Justice, Bella Thorne, Sofia Vergara, and Rita Ora to name a few.
I already have a lot of designer black and white bags and red is a timeless color that goes with a lot and works for all seasons. It’s one of those colors that instantly makes me feel more confident and feminine. I chose the medium size for it’s day to night versatility to be able to get the most use out of it.
How to style a Chanel flap bag
This bag is one of those versatile styles you can wear in various ways. The leather and chain strap, can be worn:
- With the straps of equal lengths as a shoulder bag or in the crook of your arm.
- The back strap lengthened for a longer drop to carry it as a shoulder bag or crossbody bag.
I’m going to do a whole separate article on this as there really are so many ways to style it. If you’re looking for outfit ideas and ways to style your Chanel bag, Gigi Hadid is the ultimate source of inspiration for this versatile Chanel quilted handbag. It’s one of those handbags that add polish to any outfit. Whether thats athleisurewear, coord sets and suits, or summer dresses.
Where to buy it?
The obvious place is from a Chanel boutique. But if you can’t get to a store, you’re more eco-conscious, not sure you’re ready to buy or want to save some money, consider either renting or buying a pre-owned bag. If you rent the bag, use code DawesEve22J at checkout for $50 purchase credit
Chanel bags are really expensive and they keep going up every year which is why I like looking at pre-loved stores. Some of the best ones include Fashionphile, The RealReal, Rue La La, FWRD, Gilt, FarFetch, and Shopbop. Be sure to check for things like lifestyle authenticity guarantees when shopping for pre-owned designer bags.
Are Chanel flap bags worth the investment?
There is one major point that often gets overlooked when answering this and that’s how much commission you’re paying vs getting when you sell. Of course there are factors like how much you will use it, are you planning on selling it and how well does it hold its value. And, Yes! Chanel tends to hold its value really well, especially classic styles like the Chanel Classic Flap bag, making it one of the smarter designer bag investment pieces. However, even if you sell it for the amount you paid for it, you’re only going to get a percentage of that.
For example, The RealReal only pays a 65% commission on bags they sell for $750 – $4,999 and 70% on bags they sell for over $5000. So you’re not going to get what you paid for it if you decide to sell the bag in the future.
If you’re looking for an iconic bag that you can wear year after year and that holds it’s value, yes it’s worth it. Just don’t expect to get what you paid for it when you sell it unless you’re selling it directly to someone.
Follow
For more outfit ideas and fashion inspiration.
