The Chanel Classic bag stands as one of the most emblematic pieces from this legendary fashion house. Evolving from the original Chanel 2.55 bag, the first shoulder bag deemed suitable for stylish and distinguished women, the Classic flap bag has seen several updates over the years.
Today, owning a Chanel Classic flap bag is considered essential for any fashion-conscious individual. Thankfully, this timeless piece is available in various sizes, ensuring you find the perfect fit. Let’s delve into the specifics of each size to help you choose your next designer accessory.
WHAT IS THE CHANEL CLASSIC BAG?
The Chanel Classic bag is a modern take on the 2.55 bag, first introduced in February 1955. When Karl Lagerfeld took over as Chanel’s Creative Director in 1984, he revamped the design, notably changing the Mademoiselle lock to the interlocking CC turnlock, giving birth to the Classic flap.
The Medium Classic flap, an iconic piece of the Classic line, has maintained its design since the 1980s, featuring diamond-pattern quilted leather, the interlocking CC logo turnlock, a rear half-moon pocket, and an interwoven chain and leather strap. The Small version has been around since the 1980s but has gained popularity with the trend towards smaller bags. The Jumbo and Maxi sizes (an updated version of the XL Jumbo) have also evolved and are now larger double flap versions of the Medium Classic. The Mini version was introduced in 2010.
Except for the Mini, all Chanel Classics are double flaps, with the interior flap helping to maintain the bag’s structure over time. These double flap bags include seven pockets, including a secret compartment for Coco Chanel's love letters. Now, let’s examine how these features translate across the different sizes.
EXPLORING THE DIFFERENT CHANEL CLASSIC BAG SIZES
Chanel Classic bag sizes vary not only in dimensions but also in storage capacity and design. Here’s a closer look at each size:
Chanel Mini Square Classic Flap Bag
The Mini Square is the smallest size, measuring 6.6” x 5.3” x 3.1” (17cm x 13.5cm x 8cm) with a 21” strap drop. Released in 2010, this bag has a contemporary, minimalist appeal with just a single flap. It’s perfect for carrying essentials like keys, lipstick, a card holder, and a phone.
This chic bag can be worn as a shoulder or crossbody bag, or with the chain strap tucked inside, it can be carried as a small clutch.
Chanel Mini Rectangular Classic Flap Bag
The Mini Rectangular, measuring 7.8” x 4.7” x 2.3” (20cm x 12cm x 6cm) with a 23” strap drop, is the most popular among the Chanel Classic collection. It’s wider, shorter, and narrower than the Mini Square and also has a single flap.
This bag can be identified by the six diamonds stitched in a row on the flap. It holds slightly more than the Mini Square, including a compact hand sanitizer. Some versions feature a small, rolled handle, making them highly sought after.
The Mini Rectangular’s long strap makes it comfortable to wear crossbody. You can also double the strap for a shorter shoulder bag or tuck the chain inside to use it as a clutch. It pairs well with both casual and dressy outfits.
Chanel Small Classic Flap Bag
The Small Classic Flap bag measures 9” x 5.7” x 2.3” (23cm x 14.5cm x 6cm) with a 10” strap drop. It’s the first size to include the second, interior flap, which helps retain the bag’s shape. Identified by seven stitched diamonds across the flap, it holds about the same as the Mini Rectangular.
This bag is ideal for evening use as a shoulder bag or hand-held clutch. You can also double the strap for a shorter shoulder bag, making it perfect for both day and evening wear.
Chanel Medium Classic Flap Bag
Measuring 9.9” x 6” x 2.5” (25.5cm x 15.5cm x 6.5cm) with a 17” handle drop (9” when doubled), the Medium Classic has a double flap. Recognizable by the eight whole diamonds stitched across the flap, it can hold everything the Small does, plus sunglasses and a small toiletries bag.
The Medium Classic Flap bag is sophisticated for day to night use, although it may not be ideal for evening wear.
Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap Bag
The Jumbo Classic is designed for the busy woman, measuring 11.7” x 7.6” x 3.9” (30cm x 19.5cm x 10cm) with a strap drop of 23.5” (13.5” when doubled). This spacious bag can carry a full-sized wallet, keys, sunglasses, cell phone, tablet or book, and a cosmetic case or compact umbrella.
This chic bag is perfect for work or travel, making it a great choice for day wear.
Chanel Maxi Classic Flap Bag
The Maxi is the largest, measuring 12.9” x 9” x 3.9” (33cm x 23cm x 10cm) with a 12” strap drop (doubled). It can hold everything the Jumbo can, including a cosmetic case and compact umbrella.
The Chanel Maxi Classic bag is a stylish choice for everyday use or travel, ideal for a glamorous weekend getaway.
Photos sourced from chanel.com
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