In the years following the opening of her modest millinery shop, Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel became a pivotal designer of both fashionable casual wear and Paris haute couture as well as an icon and arbiter of 20th-century style with her bob haircut and pearls. Today vintage Chanel handbags, jackets and evening dresses are among the most sought-after clothing and accessories for fashion lovers all over the world.
The first Chanel shop was established in 1910 in Paris on rue Cambon by the young milliner Gabrielle Chanel (1883–1971), who had picked up the nickname “Coco” while working as a club singer. The boutique drew the attention of the Parisian fashion elite who popularized her wide-brimmed Chanel Modes hats. Soon she added a sportswear store in the Normandy resort town of Deauville, where Coco set the tone for her defining sense of style — traditionally masculine garments reimagined for feminine shapes, made from simple jersey fabric.
Effortless and elegant, Chanel's designs promoted comfort and grace in women’s wear that had been dominated in the previous century by complicated layers of fabric and cumbersome corsets. She followed this success with a couture house, opened in 1915 in Biarritz.
But Chanel was not born into a life of glamour. Following the death of her mother, her father left her in an orphanage where she lived until the age of 18. It was there that she learned to sew as well as appreciate the classic pairing of black and white as worn by the nuns.
In 1926, Chanel introduced her first little black dress, reclaiming a color that had once been reserved for mourning and working-class women. That same decade, she debuted her perfume, Chanel No. 5, as well as the Chanel suit with a fitted skirt, inspired by the boxy lines of men’s clothing and employing a sporty tweed.
Chanel closed her fashion operations during World War II, then returned to the industry in 1954 to design for the functional needs of modern women.
Structure and wearability endured in all of Chanel’s clothing and accessories, like the quilted leather 2.55 handbag — a 1955 update of a 1920s-era design — with its gold-chain shoulder strap that freed up a woman’s hands. The 1957 two-tone slingback pumps had a practical heel height while offering a bold statement in the black tip of the shoes. Her collarless jacket reacted against the constricting styles of Christian Dior's New Look, replacing them with a design that was timeless, an instant classic.
After Coco Chanel died in 1971, the brand underwent several changes in leadership, including fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, who took over as artistic director in 1983. His collections for Chanel displayed his knack for synthesizing old and new, high and low. Lagerfeld revived Chanel ballet flats and thoroughly embraced the classic logo's interlocking CCs, which took the form of a clasp featured on so many of the rare Chanel bags that are much sought after today.
Vintage Karl Lagerfeld designs for Chanel dresses, coats and other clothing of the 1980s, '90s and 2000s riffed on its iconography, accenting a lexicon of Chanel-isms with tastes of the moment. And as the 1990s have become associated with styles adopted by today’s supermodels and influencers, vintage Chanel bags of the 1990s are among the most prized of the brand’s offerings.
Over the years, the company has continued to innovate, such as expanding into ready-to-wear fashion in 1978 and, in 2002, establishing a subsidiary company — Paraffection — dedicated to preserving the heritage skills of fashion artisan workshops. The House of Chanel still operates its flagship on rue Cambon in Paris, where it all began.
Browse vintage Chanel bags, evening dresses, shoes, jewelry and other clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
CHANEL Iconic Tweed Jacket with Braided Trim & CC Buttons 40 FR
By Chanel
Located in Hong Kong, HK
CHANEL · Iconic Tweed Jacket with Braided Trim & CC Buttons — Cruise 2006, Karl Lagerfeld — Collectible Cruise-era icon · As seen on Penélope Cruz · — Worn by Penélope Cruz, t...
New Vintage Chanel 90s Gold Logo Barrette 1990s Hair Clip Pin w/ Box
By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel
Located in San Diego, CA
New in box vintage Chanel, by Karl Lagerfeld, gold logo barrette! Can be worn several different ways. The vintage Chanel olive green suit and brown la...
CHANEL black grained leather REV DAD Sandals Shoes 38.5
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel Dad sandals are crafted in black grained calfskin leather and feature a distinctive, laid-back silhouette. Two velcro straps across the front are adorned ...
CHANEL light grey & white TWEED & LEATHER SLINGBACK Flats Shoes 39
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel slingback ballet flats are crafted in white fabric interwoven with gold and silver lurex threads. They feature almond-shaped toes with contrasting pale gr...
CHANEL Iconic CC Gripoix Buttons Burgundy Tweed Jacket 40 FR
By Chanel
Located in Hong Kong, HK
CHANEL · Collectible Burgundy Lesage Tweed Jacket — Runway Fall/Winter 2011 “Lonely Day” Collection by Karl Lagerfeld — // Boutique value: approx. €13,000 · Museum-grade Runway piece...
Chanel Paris / Edinburgh Chain Embellished Mitten Gloves
By Chanel
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Exquisite Chanel tweed and leather mitten gloves ~ embellished with metallic chains ~ from Paris / EDINBURGH Collection by maestro Lagerfeld - CC logo Lionhead charm Size mark 8 / ...
Chanel Black and Fuschia Logo Cap Toe Pump
By Chanel
Located in San Francisco, CA
Chanel suede pump in the classic contrast cap toe design in deep fuchsia pink and black. Stitched logo detail at toe and quilt-stitch detail at plat...
Chanel Cashmere Blue & Green Gilt Metal Logo Button Cardigan circa 1990
By Chanel
Located in University City, MO
Chanel Luxurious cashmere blue & green gilt logo button cardigan c. 1990 The stylish Chanel cardigan is constructed with plush double-ply cashmere The cashmere cardigan is designed with a combination of dark hunter green cashmere juxtaposed with dark blue cashmere in the lower mid-section with contrasting triangular inverted geometric designs Adorned with five gilt metal Chanel buttons inscribed with her iconic C.C. initials stamped on quilted handbag motifs. The front opening, cuffs and hemline are distinguished with dark green cashmere trim The elegant Chanel cashmere cardigan makes a luxurious garment that is chic and timeless Labeled: Chanel 100% Cashmere Made in Scotland Size Small Refer to enclosed measurements The length from the top center back neckline to the hem = 19 inches The length from the shoulder to the hemline measures 19 inches The underarm bust section measured flat side to side = 17 inches The complete bust buttoned measures 34 inches The shoulders measure 19 inches seam to seam The outer sleeve length measures 21 inches with folded cuff...
CHANEL Iconic Jennie Kim Style Tweed Jacket Dress 34 FR
By Chanel
Located in Hong Kong, HK
CHANEL Iconic Tweed Jacket Dress — Spring 2020 by Virginie Viard ~ Immortalized in the Spring 2020 campaign, worn by Jennie Kim and other icons of modern myth, this piece transcen...
Chanel Pre-Fall 2021 Métiers d’Art “Château des Dames” Black Velvet 21A Top
By Chanel
Located in Jersey City, NJ
From the highly collectible 21A Métiers d’Art collection, this piece reflects Chanel’s annual tribute to its specialized ateliers, the Maisons d’art, whose exceptional savoir-faire e...
CHANEL black suede 20A PEARL EMBELLISHED Slingback Flats Shoes 38.5 G36467
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel slingback flats in black suede are adorned with five strands of pearly white faux pearls knotted at the vamp. Featuring pointed toes with grosgrain toe ca...
Chanel Grey Quilted Caviar Small Chanel 25 Hobo
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Chanel Grey Quilted Caviar Small Chanel 25 Hobo SKU: Z153820 Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Excellent Condition Comments: Item is in excellent condition and ...
Documented Chanel By Karl Lagerfeld Runway Metallic Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress, FW96
By Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel
Located in Geneva, CH
Perfect for the inter-seasons, the color of this rare Fall-Winter 1996 Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld t-shirt maxi dress is reminiscent of the holiday season about to begin ! Its twin walk...
Chanel Bottines Coco Neige EU39 Lined Suede Classique Chain Boots UK6 US8.5
By Chanel
Located in PARIS, FR
Chanel mid-calf ankle boots in camel suede lined with shearling, round toe, matching rubber sole, cushioned heel, front adorned with gold-tone metal chains interwoven with matching l...
Black quilted fabric Timeless bag CHANEL 2002
By Chanel
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Black quilted fabric Timeless bag. Silver metal chain and hardware. SIZE 30cm X 18cm X 5cm Chain lenght = 88cm. Clasp closure middle front. Dust bag provided. Zip closure on the t...
Chanel Pale Green Cashmere and Silk Scarf with Darker Green CHANEL Logo
By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel
Located in New Hope, PA
This Chanel pale green cashmere and silk shawl or scarf has a darker green logo CHANEL at one of the narrow fringed ends. It leaves no doubt about your exquisite taste for style and...
CHANEL black suede 24C LOS ANGELES PEARL PEEP-TOE Pumps Shoes 39.5
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel Pearl Embellished Suede Platform Pumps are a luxurious statement in elevated elegance. Crafted in rich black suede, they feature a secure ankle strap and ...
CHANEL black SEQUIN EMBELLISHED ROUND Sunglasses 5451
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel sunglasses in black acetate feature a chic round frame, beautifully adorned with grey sequins on both the front and arms. The frames are finished with the...
Chanel S/S 2005 rare ribbon tweed and sequins Melania trump jacket
By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel
Located in PARIS, FR
Rare Chanel Spring Summer 2005 collection by Karl Lagerfeld, as seen on Melania Trump in 2019 and on the ad campaign for 2005. Ribbon tweed and sequins, silk details. Size 44 FR but ...
CHANEL ivory & black leather 18C GREECE ESPADRILLES Mules Shoes 39 fit 38.5
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel mules from the 2018 Greece collection are crafted in supple ivory leather with a contrasting black leather cap toe. Designed in an espadrille mule silhoue...
CHANEL black cotton 22B TEXTURED VELVET CROPPED Jacket 40 M
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Chanel cropped jacket is a bold expression of classic elegance with a vibrant twist. Crafted from rich black textured velvet, the cropped silhouette features long...
CHANEL black leather REV TURNLOCK Ankle Boots Shoes 39 G31285
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Chanel ankle boots in supple black leather, elevated with signature silver-tone CC turnlock hardware for an instantly recognizable finish. A timeless, versatile silhou...
Chanel Navy Grained Shiny Calfskin Preppy Flap Bag
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Chanel Navy Grained Shiny Calfskin Preppy Flap Bag SKU: Z153853 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: A timeless classic that never goes out of style, the flap ...
Chanel bag 'Paris-Shanghai' by Karl Lagerfeld Pre-Fall 2010
By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - 2010 Metiers d'art 'Paris-Shanghai' Collection under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld. Quilted black satin bag ornamented with feathers partially brushed with a gold...
Chanel neoprene bag by Karl Lagerfeld Resort 2015
By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - 2015 Resort ready-to-wear Collection under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld. Navy-blue neoprene bag ornamented with a flower pattern appliqué, a silvery metal CC fas...
CHANEL pink orange yellow gradient leather 24C LOS ANGELES WEDGE Pumps Shoes 41
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel slingbacks in a stunning yellow-to-pink gradient laminated calfskin leather bring a vibrant twist to a timeless silhouette. Designed with rounded toes and...
Chanel Sac Pochette Ceinture Classique Silver Star Leather Classic mini bag NIB
By Chanel
Located in PARIS, FR
Small Chanel Classic series bag or clutch in silver quilted leather and silver metal, small flap closed by a magnetic snap topped with a large star encrusted with rhinestones and CC ...
Chanel 1994 Runway Ultra Rare Quilted CC Logo Mini Skirt
By Chanel
Located in San Francisco, CA
Chanel 1994 Runway Ultra Rare Quilted CC Logo Mini Skirt Rare early-90s Chanel sport-inspired mini skirt featuring the iconic oversized interlocking CC logo in textured embroidery a...
Chanel Dark Brown Timeless Classic Jumbo Shoulder Bag 30 cm
By Chanel
Located in Rome, Rome
This beautiful Bag will come with a Certificate of Authenticity provided by Entrupy. The certificate will be provided at no further cost Indulge in the ultimate in luxury with the Ch...
Chanel Cambon Large Pink Calfskin Leather Double Strap Handbag
By Chanel
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Chanel Cambon Large Pink Calfskin Leather Double Strap Handbag These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. Named after the Cambon street in Paris the Chanel s...
CHANEL 5K$ New Paris / Edinburgh Runway Teddy Jumper 34 FR
By Chanel
Located in Hong Kong, HK
CHANEL · Paris / EDINBURGH Silk Cashmere Jumper with Gripoix Charm Métiers d’Art 2013 — Runway & Advertising Campaign // Boutique value over $4,800 // A winter talisman— written ...
Maison Gripoix for Chanel 1988 Openwork Gold Belt with Amber Glass
By Chanel, Maison Gripoix for Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - Rare openwork golden-metal mughal-inspired belt with amber-colored poured glass and Swarovski rhinestones. Not signed jewelry. A Haute Couture Collection circa 1988 under th...
CHANEL black quilted leather 23C MONTE CARLOHEART Loafers Shoes 39
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Chanel loafers in black quilted lambskin leather. Feature decorative gold-tone CC heart turnlock on the front and chunky sole with block heel. Have been worn and are i...
CHANEL black & cream leather 18A HAMBURG DERBY Flats Shoes 41 fit 40
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel lace-up shoes are crafted from white leather with quilt embossing and accented with black leather for a classic, elegant contrast. Featuring zigzag edges,...
Chanel Cerf Executive Medium Beige Leather Handbag 35cm
By Chanel
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Chanel Cerf Executive Medium Beige Leather Handbag 35cm These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. The iconic Chanel Cerf tote was introduced in 2005 as a ti...
Chanel suit set Winter 1994
By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - (Made in France) Pink wool set composed of a jacket and a skirt. Silk lining. Size 42FR indicated. 1994 Fall-Winter Collection under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld...
Chanel Classic Flap Maxi Black Caviar Leather Single Flap with Gold Hardware
By Chanel
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Chanel Classic Flap Maxi Black Caviar Leather Single Flap with Gold Hardware These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. Embrace luxury with this timeless Cha...
Chanel 1989 Black Silk Extra Long Elongated Classic Flap Clutch
By Chanel
Located in San Francisco, CA
Chanel Vintage 1989 Runway Quilted CC Triple Turn-Lock Extra Long Clutch An iconic Chanel runway design from 1989, this quilted leather extra-long cl...
CHANEL black leather REV TURNLOCK Loafers Shoes 39
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Chanel REV turnlock loafers are crafted from sleek black smooth leather and feature a signature quilted flap detail. The design is elevated with a beige gold-ton...
CHANEL white navy beige cotton 07P FRINGED PLAID TWEED Jacket 36 XS
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Chanel jacket in navy, white, and beige check tweed cotton (53%), rayon (21%), nylon (12%), silk (9%), and polyester (5%) offers a chic twist on a classic. Design...
Chanel Silk Charmeuse Ribbon Trim Cocktail Dress Circa 1990s
By Chanel
Located in University City, MO
Chanel Silk charmeuse ribbon trim cocktail dress c 1990s Size 34 The elegant Chanel black silk evening dress is designed with slit detail on both shoulders accented with black ribb...
CHANEL white grey black suede 24S LOW TOP Sneakers Shoes 38
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Chanel low-top sneakers in cream suede offer a refined take on everyday luxury. Accented with light grey and black suede trims, they feature rounded toes for a ti...
CHANEL black white pink wool 21K CROPPED TWEED Jacket 40 M
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Chanel jacket in black, white and pink plaid tweed wool (56%), polymer (19%), cotton (14%), polyamide (7%) and acrylic (4%), showcasing a richly textured woven surface...
Chanel 2004 Veste Tweed Taupe Lurex FR36 Khaki Green Wool Tweed Jacket UK6 US4
By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld
Located in PARIS, FR
Chanel Fall/Winter 2004 collection jacket in taupe (or iced brown), blue, and ecru wool tweed with a subtle check pattern (less visible when worn than in the photos), round neck with...
CHANEL white & multi cashmere 19C LA PAUSA ZIP Cardigan Sweater 34 XXS
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Chanel cardigan in white and multicolored striped cashmere (100%) brings a playful twist to luxury knitwear. Designed with a relaxed silhouette and batwing sleeve...
Chanel jacket 'Paris - New-York' by Karl Lagerfeld Pre-Fall 2019
By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - 2019 Paris - New-York' Metiers d'art Egypt Collection under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld. White and golden tweed jacket with a silk lining, ornamented with butto...
Chanel Quilted Lambskin Shoulder Bag Gold Hardware Crossbody Mini Vintage 1990s
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
- Black exterior - Gold colored hardware - No dustbag or box - Vintage 1990's - SERIEL NUMBER HAS FALLEN OUT Condition: The bag is in overall great condition with no major...
CHANEL Creations Muted Gray - Green Wool Coat with C.C. Buttons c 1980s
By Chanel
Located in University City, MO
CHANEL Creations muted gray - green wool coat with C.C. buttons c 1980s The stylish winter gauge wool coat is designed with a rounded stand-up collar Adorned with five burnished bras...
CHANEL 13K$ Paris / Edinburgh CC Gripoix Buttons Tweed Coat 42 FR
By Chanel
Located in Hong Kong, HK
CHANEL · Rare Collectible Tweed Coat — Paris / EDINBURGH Métiers d’Art 2013 · By Karl Lagerfeld // Boutique valuation exceeding $13,000, it remains a masterwork of rarity and res...
Chanel Grand Sac Boy 2015 Black Leather Golden HDW Chanel Large Boy Bag
By Chanel
Located in PARIS, FR
Large Chanel Boy bag in aged quilted black leather and gold metal, wide front flap with double-press Boy clasp, black canvas interior with a large pocket closed by a zip with a logo ...
CHANEL blue DENIM CHOCOLATE BAR MEDIUM FLAP Bag
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Chanel Chocolate Bar Medium Flap Bag is crafted from classic blue denim with the signature chocolate bar quilted pattern, offering a modern yet timeless aesthetic...
Chanel Black Silk Low Cowled V-Neck Sleeveless Blouse, 2000s
By Chanel
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Talk about sexy in a luxury context! This sophisticated top has a secret to offer with its mega low-cut v-neck. What better way to seduce your suitors than with the glimmering Chanel...
CHANEL burgundy & black leather 2020 REVERSIBLE Belt 75
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Chanel reversible belt in black and burgundy leather offers versatile elegance. Featuring a matte silver-tone CC buckle, thi...
CHANEL black leather 13K ENCHAINED BOY MEDIUM Shoulder Bag
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Chanel Enchained (old) Medium shoulder bag in smooth black leather is a bold and edgy take on the iconic Boy Bag. Featuring intric...
Chanel Vintage 24K Beige Quilted Caviar CC Shoulder Handbag
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Chanel Vintage 24K Beige Quilted Caviar CC Shoulder Bag SKU: Z151438 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: A timeless classic that never goes out of style, the ...
CHANEL burgundy cashmere 23P CHUNKY KNIT Coat Jacket 38 S
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Chanel knit coat in a rich burgundy palette accented with brown, red, and soft light blue, crafted from a luxurious blend of cashmere (50%), wool (37%), polyester (11%...
Chanel 'Classic' bag by Karl Lagerfeld Resort 2017
By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
CHANEL - 2017 Resort 'Coco Cuba' ready-to-wear Collection under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld. Beige tweed 'Classic' bag with a multicolored metalic effect, and a golden m...
CHANEL black leather 2022 22C DUBAI BEECHWOOD VANITY Shoulder Bag
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Chanel Small Vanity bag in beige beechwood with black leather trims and antique gold-tone hardware. Rare limited edition. Opens with a logo clasp closure and is lined ...
Chanel Fitted Black Buttons & Ruffles Dress Sz.34 XS
By Chanel
Located in Krakow, PL
Chanel – Fitted Dress with Buttons and Ruffles – Size FR34 XS Condition: Very good Condition notes: Minimal signs of wear Description: Dress with buttons, fitted silhouette Siz...
CHANEL black shiny lambskin leather 19 MEDIUM Shoulder Bag
By Chanel
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Chanel 19 Medium shoulder bag in black smooth shiny lambskin is a modern icon, defined by its supple structure and luxurious mixed hardware—featuring aged gold-to...