Chanel Classic Flap

Tuesday, January 29, 2013


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”

56 comments

  1. This is a funny yet smart way of looking at buying a 2.55... Love this post!

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  2. I decided to incorporate some financial analysis into fashion :)

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  3. Thank you so much for your post and the lovely pic!

    Is the model on the pic wearing a medium or jumbo flap? It's kinda look in between for me :D

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    Replies
    1. Hi Adeline! Thank you so much for reading and following! I'm carrying the Jumbo Chanel in caviar leather and gold hardware :)

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    2. Your pic is so classy that I thought it's a Chanel model.. hahaha..Thank you so much for the confirmation! I thought it's SHW since it's a B&W pic.. :D

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    3. Thanks Adeline! I should credit the photographer, Ircahn Gunawan! :):)

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  4. Love the way you write and you always mention your mom. Maybe you should make a post about her style too! =)

    Are you sure the prices are updated? I just read a girl comment on another blog saying she payed 3345euros for the medium. I guess unfortunately there was already a new price increase.

    xxx

    Nadia

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    Replies
    1. Hi Nadia!

      My mom's always been my inspiration. Thanks for the tip--it sounds like a great idea! I would love to do a post on her style! Please be on the lookout for it in the next few weeks :)

      For the Chanel, I just double checked, and I think the prices are updated. I was able to have my tax returned, because I was traveling in Europe, and paid less for the bag. 3345 Euros might be the price before the tax return, if I recall correctly.

      Are you thinking of buying one soon?

      Thank you for reading and following!

      xoxo,
      Nicole

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  5. Hi Nicole,

    Thanks for your kind answer!
    That's the price before tax return I heard of, just wanted to confirm it! :)
    Yes, I'm thinking of getting the Fendi2jours and the Chanel classic flap in July at Cannes, as I'll be there for a french summer school. Unless I can't find the 2Jours in black or red, then I'll go to my second choice of Céline micro as you suggested. <3

    Have a great day! Greetings from São Paulo!
    xoxo

    Nadia

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    Replies
    1. Hi Nadia!

      I can't wait to see your new purchase! Have fun this summer :)

      xoxo,
      Nicole

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  6. Ooh this was a great post! I've been thinking so long about buying one but since I'm not working (still a student) it really is A LOT of money (even if you are working for that matter). But since they seem to always go up it might be smarter to buy this than wait until I work!

    Xoxo

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Lippylash!

      Yeah, it really is a lot to spend on one bag, but when you start working and make your own money, you should treat yourself to something you'll keep for awhile! Or, like you said, since the price always increases at least once per year, buy it now to save yourself a couple hundred! :)

      Thanks for sharing!
      xoxo,
      Nicole

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  7. Hi,
    When you say the Jumbo is for 3100 eur in some of these countries, do you take into account the VAT refund or is this the shelf price?

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    Replies
    1. Hi Shinjani,

      The jumbo was 3100 Euros after the VAT refund :)

      Hope this answered your question!

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  8. I just called a store in Germany and the new price for the Jumbo is 3450 Euros BUT you get 13% tax back which amounts to 448. With the Euro being weak right now this is probably your best bet if you are American or Canadian.

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  10. Wanted to buy one but gotta wait for friends who r going to Europe

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  11. Hi there. I absolutely enjoy reading your blog and this entry is my utmost favourite. I am (desperately) wanting to get my hands and shoulders to the exact Chanel which u referred to. Where I am from, the price is at least 1k more, in Euro I mean so it is rather wasteful to be buying it here.

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    1. Hi Carrie! Thanks for following and reading--I really appreciate it! I'm from the US, and it's still more expensive than Europe, by nearly 1k as well. Where are you from? Hope you or a friend finds sometime to visit Europe sometime soon, and look forward to hearing from you! Keep me updated!

      Hope you had a great weekend!

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  12. Hi - Do you know what the prices of the classic medium in Paris now? I'll be in Paris in June and plan on buying my first Chanel bag. Thank you!

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  13. Hi Nicole,
    I'd like to thank you for the useful info. I am picking a Chanel bag for wife as birthday present and gosh it is so complicated. I was so lost until I read your post. Now I'm all set and will be getting it in France. I'm hoping to get the medium Classic Flap in red caviar leather with gold hardware but I heard it's rare. If not the classic black would be great too.

    Thanks for the great post,
    Henry

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    Replies
    1. Hi Henry--

      I'm glad the post was helpful! I'm sure your wife will love the bag; you're putting so much thought into it! France does still have the lowest rate, especially after the tax refund. The medium classic flap in red caviar sounds gorgeous, but yes, it is difficult to find since red is a seasonal color for Chanel.

      Hope to hear more about your purchase! Feel free to ask me any other questions you may have.

      Thanks,
      Nicole

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  14. Hi - I did not see the dimension for the small flap posted. Small Flap, Dimensions: 9" x 5.5" x 2.5"

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    Replies
    1. Thank you! I'll be sure to add that to the post.

      xoxo,
      Nicole

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  15. I just called up chanel in frankfurt, jumbo is 3460 euro before tax deduction. Is your price after deduction?

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    1. Hi Precious Butik,

      Yes, for me, when I bought it, it was 3100 EUR or $4170 USD for the Jumbo after the tax refund! Let me know if you have any other questions.

      xoxo,
      Nicole

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  16. Anyone knows the price of medium caviar classic in France? Please kindly advice. Million thanks. :)

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  22. How I wish I would have bought this bag years ago when I fell in love with it....sigh....lol. Did you buy your bag before the price increase?

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    1. Hi Olga! I know... it used to be so much less expensive before all the price increases. I bought my bag awhile back when it was around $4000+, so a little after the initial price increases :) You should definitely get one now before the next price increase!

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  23. May I know how much is Chanel Jumbo price in ITALY as my friend is going this end of june?

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  24. Thank you so much for your post. Do you wear the jumbo to cocktail parties/weddings? I'm so torn between the medium and the jumbo. I don't want to wear the bag everyday but always carry a big bag and am worried the medium may be too small for me/ too infrequently used since I don't attend that many fancy events each year.

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    1. Thank you for reading and following! Yes, the jumbo can be dressed up or down. I wear it with t-shirt and jeans, but it also goes great with a cocktail dress and heels. I too, was torn between the medium and jumbo, and opted for the jumbo. The medium is so gorgeous and cute, but isn't as practical if you're used to having many things in your purse. I think you'll get more use out of your Chanel if you go for the jumbo. Also, the jumbo will grow with you more as you age--it somehow looks classier and more mature! :) Hope this helped!

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    2. Thank you! This was very helpful! I went and visited the medium today but completely agree with you. I'm sticking with the jumbo!

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  25. does anyone know when the next chanel price increase will be?

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  26. Does anyone here know how to authenticate chanel bags? I need help!

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    1. Hi, here are some tips you can use to check for the authenticity of your bag! Hope this helps!

      1) CHANEL stamp and MADE IN FRANCE/ITALY stamp (note: in vintage bags, the MADE IN FRANCE/ITALY stamp is directly across the CHANEL stamp on the opposite side). A focused close up photo is required.

      2) back side of the CC turnknob showing the 2 screws and CHANEL/PARIS engraving.

      3) engraving on the interior zipper head and hanging ornament, if applicable. A focused close up photo is required.

      4) engraving on snap button

      5) stitched CC logo, if applicable

      6) hologram sticker. A focused close up photo is required.

      7) number side of authenticity card, if still available

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  27. Hi Nichole,

    I've been wanting the classic flap for a very long time, but after reading your points, I'm finally getting up the courage to justify this expensive purchase. The only thing is I'm about 5feet and 2 inches in height, medium built. I was wondering if you think that the medium would be a better size for me or a jumbo would be just fine?

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    1. Hi! Sorry for the delayed reply! I'm the same height as you!! 5'2 exactly. I struggled with the same question, and decided on the jumbo. The jumbo is more practical, and I know I'll continue using it even when I'm older. I thought it would look too large on me, but It looks perfect! You can also adjust the chains and turn it into a tote! I've coveted over the medium for awhile, but realized it holds nothing more than your wallet, phone and lipstick. It's also gorgeous, but doesn't hold as much. Let me know what you end up deciding! :):)

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  28. Hi,
    Anyone knows the price for 2.55 reissue 226 and 225 in Canada?
    Thanks in advance..

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  29. I will be travelling through London Heathrow airport shortly and plan to purchase the classic jumbo bag. Could you please explain the difference between caviar and lambskin? Also, do you know the prices? Thanks so much.
    Gloria

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    1. Hi! That sounds exciting! I apologize for the delayed reply. Lambskin is softer, and more delicate-- in my perspective, it looks more feminine, however, I wouldn't recommend it for everyone because it scratches easily, and doesn't age as well as the caviar. Caviar is more durable, and is "tougher". In my experience, if you're planning on using your Chanel as an everyday bag, it's better to opt for caviar! Hope this was helpful. Let me know how everything goes!

      Best,
      Nicole

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    2. The classic flap bags are no longer sold at airport boutiques. I also agonized over making decision of medium or jumbo caviar and I bought the jumbo in SHW. It was $4900 in Canada.

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    3. Hope you like your purchase! I don't think you can make a bad choice when buying a Chanel. It will always be classic. If it makes you feel any better, after the price increase the Medium flap bag is now $4900, and the jumbo you bought is $5500.

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  30. Hi Nicole!

    Do you know the price for a medium one in caviar?
    I live in Belgium :)

    Thank you so much!

    - Elise

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    1. Hi Elise--

      Prices went up again, this past April. The price for the Classic Medium in Europe, is now € 3,550 plus tax nearly a 15% increase from it's last price. In the US, it's $4,900. Previously, it was $4,400. Let me know if you need anything else!

      xoxo,
      Nicole

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  31. I was trying to buy Chanel Purse for my sister but I don't know from where I can purchase this purse. Do you know any good shop or outlet store where I can get these purses at affordable rates?

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    1. Hi Stephen--

      Did you already get your sister her bag? Do you live in the US? I cant think of any outlet stores that sell Chanel bags, other than Gilt who occasionally has vintage bag sales. If you have the chance, you should go to Europe, the prices are significantly lower with the tax return! You have a lucky sister :) Hope to hear more about your bag ventures!

      xoxo,
      Nicole

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  32. Is the medium classic chanel bag always the same? it doesn't matter what year did you purchased the bag? I mean the material and style is always the same?

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    1. Hi Trang,

      Apologies for the delayed reply! Yes, the classic Chanel Bag shouldn't vary too much. I purchased mine years ago and if I walk into the store today, they are still selling the same thing now. The classic materials and colors will always be available--"caviar" "lambskin". Every delivery though, they do introduce seasonal colors that are available for a limited amount of time, and also feature special prints and embellishments. Hope this helps!

      xoxo,
      Nicole

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  33. If I buy the bag from somebody that told me she bought the bag back to 2010, is the 2010 bag looks the same as the 2014 bag?

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    1. Hi Trang,

      Yes, the 2010 bag should look the same as the 2014, as long as the model is the same! Are you planning on getting a bag?

      xoxo,
      Nicole

      Delete

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