11 Timeless Chanel Bags That Deserve A Spot In Everyone’s Closet

Classical piece everyone should own
By: Aqilah Najwa Jamaluddin
May 20, 2022

Months ago, I gave my most wanted opinion on how Chanel continues to be the top choice brand for luxury fashion. Coco Chanel first founded the most powerful brand in history when she decided to open a millinery boutique in 1908. Today, the fashion company provides consumers with numerous seasons every year, ranging from ready-to-wear items to accessories to haute couture. Chanel has developed into an empire—more so, than a just ‘’international brand’’. Emblazoned with their trademark double-C emblem, simple yet opulent stitching, and recognised tweeds. To conclude; they are the epitome of luxury

Read more here: Why Chanel Continues To Be The Top Choice Brand For Luxury Fashion

The titular brand is now a household name across the world, and its handbags collection are the most sought after by all fashionistas. Chanel handbags are often timeless, whether they are top handle or crossbody, tote or evening clutch, they have the answer to everything. I think it’s not wrong for me to say that everyone should at least own a Chanel bag in their lifetime. They symbolise strength with a glaze of femininity. 

The hunt for the perfect handbag is always a good one when it’s Chanel. Below, Glitz by Beauty Insider rounded up 14 of the most classical pieces everyone invests in. 

Related article: 10 Best Luxury Bags In Malaysia That Every Woman  Should Splurge On 

1. Chanel 2.55

The mastermind behind this design, Gabrielle Chanel invented the 2.55 in February 1955, therefore the name. It caused quite the uproar. It was the first women’s purse that came with a shoulder strap, allowing ladies to do whatever they wanted with their hands. It was regarded as a gesture of revolt, and women rejoiced at their newfound independence. Another interesting truth about the bag is that the secret zip compartment inserted inside was initially designed for holding secret love letters, like Coco Chanel did when she was rumoured to be having an illegal affair herself.

2. Chanel Flap Bags

Chanel’s flap bags are among the luxury label’s most classic and instantly identifiable accessories. The Classic Flap Bag is a modern-day descendent of Coco Chanel’s classic shoulder bag, the 2.55, which debuted in 1955. It is an icon and a great investment piece since it frequently holds its original worth pretty well. Karl Lagerfeld reinvented the 2.55 for a reissue in 2005 to commemorate the bag’s 50th anniversary. The most popular versions of this shape now include 2019’s Chanel 19 Flap Bag as well as the basic Flap Bag, which is available in big, medium, and tiny sizes.

Get to know more: Chanel Small Flap Bag: The Chanel Piece That Everyone Needs

3. Chanel Drawstring & Bucket Bags

Bucket bags are a playful yet functional shape for everyday items. In the form of the luxurious Drawstring Bag, Chanel has placed its own sophisticated, high-end spin on the design. This style often has an aged calfskin leather upper in Chanel’s distinctive quilted texture, an open top, and, as the name suggests, an adjustable drawstring closing. The chain-link strap allows you to wear this distinctive purse cross-body or over the shoulder.

4. Chanel Grand Shopping Tote

GST, also known as The Grand Shopping Tote, is the most spacious model in Chanel’s history. To the dismay of many Chanel fans, the GST was discontinued in 2015, making it more prized among real fashion ladies. The bag surged to prominence in the early to mid-2000s, with reality stars ranging from Paris Hilton to the whole cast of The Hills carrying it on their arms. It’s now a rare vintage discovery, making it a must-have for all fashion aficionados in the world.

5. Chanel Boy Bag

The Boy Bag, introduced by Karl Lagerfeld in 2011 and named after Coco Chanel’s beau, polo player Arthur “Boy” Capel, has become one of Chanel’s most prized shapes. The boxy design is inspired by traditional cartridge packs used by hunters, but it has a distinctively fashion-forward finish. The quilted detailing on the front, the linear border around the borders, the huge lock closing, and the thick chain strap are all important design elements on a Boy Bag.

6. Chanel Clutches

Nothing says elegance like a beautiful clutch bag, which is ideal for parties and celebrations. While they aren’t always the most practical bag option, their attractiveness stems from the fact that you do not always have to carry such large bags to make a statement. These minimalist classic Chanel clutches are available in a squared shape. The flexible bag has a gold-toned frame that houses a black quilted lambskin and plexiglass pouch, as well as a changeable strap that allows you to effortlessly modify the design to fit your requirements.

7. Chanel Camera Case

Contrary to its name, the Camera Case is not usually used to move cameras safely. Instead, the name of this bag comes from its rigid and frequently boxy design. We’re intrigued with rounder twists on the design instead of the more classic rectangular and square shapes. The quilted black leather back with studded interlocking C lettering on the front and a chain shoulder strap is the ideal choice for people who want a classic finish. If you’re searching for something a little more eye-catching, the pink iridescent caviar quilted edition is a must-have.

8. Chanel Wallet on Chain

Another popular type is the Wallet on Chain (WOC), which is ideal for leaving your GST at home. The WOC is surprisingly spacious, holding all the basics while being compact and rigid. The bag’s sleek functionality is perhaps what has made it so popular among classically stylish ladies. In my humble opinion, this WOC really embodied the girl next door personas. 

9. Chanel Hobo Bag

The Hobo Bag has a somewhat more simplistic structure than many of Chanel’s more popular shapes, and their large size makes them ideal for people who can’t live up to a tiny bag. The classic leather iterations are an excellent investment. The Small Hobo Bag in classic white with a wide, branded shoulder strap quickly brings us back to the ’00s.

10.  Chanel Vanity Case Bag

The Chanel Vanity Case bag is influenced by history, namely travel events from Audrey Hepburn’s era. Karl Largerfeld created this bag in the 1990s with the intention of creating a unique piece focused on use and adaptability. Although it seems like a modern jewellery box or cosmetic case, the bag has a shoulder strap and a handle so you may carry it on your shoulder or by hand. We adore the traditional black leather and gold accents in a cylinder-like form for an evening essential. The vanity case with pure gold hardware and white lambskin leather is the perfect choice for a one-of-a-kind event bag.

11. Chanel Bowling Bag

While the name “bowling bag” may not conjure up visions of chicness, Chanel’s interpretation on the athletic shape is completely upmarket. These bags are great for everyday use due to their practical, robust shape—plenty of room inside for anything you could need for a busy day around town. We can’t get enough of the light purple leather version with a gold-tone embossed signature and gold interwoven strap, which will age gracefully. The smooth peach mixed fibre bowling bag with Chanel written out in chain accents is a definite favourite on our wish list for a more non-traditional rendition of the shape.

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