Chanel Handbags and Purses

Vintage Chanel handbags and purses are some of the most well-known and sought-after accessories in the world. With a subtle and chic aesthetic, many of the legendary French house’s crossbody bags, shoulder bags, tote bags and other bags are popular among celebrities and fashion obsessives.

Crafted from top-quality materials, Chanel’s elegant iconic purses are coveted not only for their timelessness but also for their high resale value. The brand’s best-known bag, the Classic Double Flap bag, includes Chanel’s signature quilting and leather interlaced through a chain strap. Chanel Classic flap bags have been going strong since Karl Lagerfeld updated the beloved 2.55 handbag in the 1980s with the addition of the interlocking double Cs on the flap.

Other iconic bag styles are the Gabrielle and Boy bags. (Also designed by Lagerfeld, Chanel’s playful Boy Brick Lego bag has become a collector's item.) 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.

For its spectacular seasonal runway shows, Chanel designs special bags that are typically produced in smaller editions, making them all the more desirable and prompting long waiting lists for the most flamboyant creations. The widely hunted rare Chanel bags and many of the other bags much sought after today are objects of pure fantasy conjured up by the late couturier Lagerfeld, whose prolific tenure at the helm of the house lasted from 1983 to 2019.

Just like Gucci, Louis Vuitton and other luxury brands, Chanel has had to fight counterfeiters who manufacture and sell fake bags under its name. These days, provenance is as essential for Chanel bags as it is for a Chagall painting. And with forgeries improving, it's worth knowing how to spot a fake Chanel bag.

Find a collection of vintage Chanel totes, clutches, minaudières and other bags on 1stDibs today.

Shop Vintage Handbags, Shoulder Bags, Clutches and Other Bags and Purses on 1stDibs

An integral part of fashion, handbags and purses have been indispensable accessories ever since we began to carry around personal items. Level of craftsmanship, style and shape matters — from coin purses in ancient Greece to early 20th-century opera bags and onward, handbags have evolved considerably over the years to meet our needs and desires, whether or not you happen to be prioritizing functionality over a flashy exterior.

Once, a single “It” handbag ruled each fashion season. No more. Today, handbag lovers are savvier and have a wider range of shopping options. Nevertheless, classic bags still rule.

“It is not a fashion bag — it is a statement bag,” says Mightychic's Debra Kent of Hermès's widely beloved accessories. “When you carry an iconic Hermès bag — Birkin, Kelly, Constance — no one knows how long you have been into this culture or if you are a newbie. Your status is validated immediately.”

First released in 1997, Fendi's Baguette rose to fame along with Carrie Bradshaw, the Sex and the City character portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker. Recently, the design has seen such a resurgence in popularity that Fendi has reissued it.

They are part of design history, so owning a handbag has meaning. As New York–based fashion historian Sarah C. Byrd says, “You have made the choice to invest in this piece because you understand the value of it in the past and in the future to come.”

From a 1980s Chanel black leather quilted mini buckle bag to the rare Hermès Birkin 30cm Himalayan with diamond hardware to a range of 19th century bags, find a rich variety of vintage and designer handbags and purses spanning numerous brands on 1stDibs — seasonal “It” designation no longer needed.

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Questions About Chanel Handbags and Purses

Which Chanel bag is considered the Classic?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
The Chanel bag considered the Classic is a 1983 reissue of the iconic 2.55 bag, which debuted in 1955. Karl Lagerfeld oversaw the redesign, which is known as the Chanel Classic Flap bag, and his take on Coco Chanel's acclaimed accessoryfeatured an interlocking CC turn-lock instead of the traditional Mademoiselle lock. Crafted from top-quality materials, Chanel's elegant purses are coveted not only for their timelessness but also for their high resale value. The brand's best-known bag, the Classic Double Flap bag, includes Chanel's signature quilting and leather interlaced through a chain strap. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Chanel handbags.
What is considered vintage for Chanel bags?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
For Chanel bags, any piece produced more than 20 years ago is considered vintage. While Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel began to design handbags during the 1920s, the 2.55, which debuted in February 1955, is an iconic vintage Chanel bag. The brand's best-known bag, the Classic Double Flap bag, includes Chanel's signature quilting and leather interlaced through a chain strap. Chanel Classic flap bags have been going strong since Karl Lagerfeld updated the beloved 2.55 handbag in the 1980s with the addition of the interlocking double Cs on the flap. Other celebrated bag styles are the Gabrielle and Boy bags. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of vintage Chanel bags.
What is the oldest Chanel handbag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023
While the oldest Chanel handbag isn’t the 2.55, this celebrated mid-century accessory is an iconic vintage bag from the brand. Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel began to design handbags during the 1920s. The 2.55 debuted much later, in February 1955. Its design was a landmark in the history of handbags because it featured a shoulder strap for easy carrying (the clutch was the prevailing style in handbags back then). On 1stDibs, explore a wide variety of vintage Chanel bags.
When did Chanel start making quilted bags?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
Chanel started making quilted bags in the 1950s (Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel had been making handbags since the 1920s, but following WWII, she began to create quilted bags in a focused manner). The French luxury fashion house's signature diamond quilting debuted on its 2.55 Flap bag, which was introduced in February of 1955. Since the debut of the 2.55, Chanel's quilting has become iconic and now appears on many of its bags. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Chanel handbags.
What was the first Chanel bag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023
The first Chanel bag isn’t known by a specific model name. It was technically created during the 1920s, when Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel began to design handbags as part of the clothing and accessories she was producing for her couture house. While the revolutionary designer and founder of the brand was experimenting with a range of handbag designs during the era, the first Chanel bag to have a recognizable style name was the Chanel 2.55. Unveiled in February 1955, the 2.55 shoulder bag is truly iconic, and its quilted details and clasp have been featured on many other Chanel pieces. Shop a large selection of Chanel bags on 1stDibs.
Does Chanel have a crossbody bag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023
Yes, Chanel does have a crossbody bag. In fact, part of the appeal of Chanel bags is that many of them are suitable for both on-shoulder and across-the-body wear. The Wallet on Chain in any size is a great example. The Mini and Small sizes of many iconic Chanel bags are also commonly worn crossbody. Examples include the Chanel Boy Bag, the Chanel Classic Flap and the Chanel 19. Shop a wide range of Chanel crossbody bags on 1stDibs.
What are the different types of the Chanel Classic Flap Bags?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
There are many different types of Chanel Classic Flap bags. They include Single Flaps with just an exterior flap and Double Flaps that feature both interior and exterior flaps. There are also a variety of sizes, including the Extra Mini, the Mini Rectangular, the Small, the Medium, the Jumbo and the Maxi. The Classic Flap bag comes in a range of materials, including classic caviar leather, lambskin leather, patent leather, iridescent leather and tweed, and they may feature chevron quilting, diamond quilting or no quilting at all. On 1stDibs, find a large collection of Chanel Classic Flap bags.
How much was a Chanel bag in the 1950s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
In the 1950s, a Chanel bag was priced between $200 and $300. The iconic Chanel 2.55 bag cost $220 when first introduced in February 1955. Accounting for inflation, that works out to around $2,536 in today's money. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Chanel bags from some of the world's top boutiques.
Can you wear a Chanel Small Classic Flap Bag crossbody?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
Yes, you can wear a Chanel Small Classic Flap Bag crossbody. The bag doubles as a shoulder bag thanks to its proportions and the length of its chain-and-leather strap. In addition, the Mini Square and Mini Rectangular sizes are good options for those who prefer crossbody bags. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Chanel Classic Flap Bags.
How much were Chanel bags in the 1990s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
How much Chanel bags cost in the 1990s varied from piece to piece and from year to year. For example, in 1990, the iconic Chanel flap bag's price was $1,150. When adjusted for inflation, that is around $2,280 in today's money. Shop a diverse assortment of Chanel bags on 1stDibs.
Do Chanel bags have names?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
Yes, Chanel bags have names. The brand's iconic flap bag is known as the Chanel 2.55, and the redesign of this bag created by Karl Lagerfeld is the Chanel Classic or Chanel 11.12. Names of other Chanel bags include the Boy, the Gabrielle, the Wallet on Chain and the Grand Shopping Tote or GST. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of Chanel bags.
How do I know what model my Chanel bag is?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
To know what model your Chanel bag is, look for the serial number. It usually appears on a leather tag or metal plate inside the bag. Once you have the serial number, contact Chanel customer service or consult trusted online resources for assistance identifying your bag. You can also consult a knowledgeable dealer for help with identification. Explore a large selection of Chanel bags on 1stDibs.
Where can I buy secondhand Chanel bags?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
You can find a variety of second-hand Chanel bags online at boutiques and auction houses. You may also be able to find Chanel bags in consignment and vintage boutiques. It helps to know how to authenticate a Chanel bag to ensure you’re getting a legitimate Chanel handbag. Find a collection of expertly vetted Chanel handbags from some of the world’s top reputable boutiques on 1stDibs.
Do Chanel bags go up in value?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The value of Chanel bags has been steadily increasing for years. This is because each year, they make a “limited run,” which means that there are only so many available to purchase from the Chanel store or expertly vetted platforms from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How many stores does Chanel have?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
There are 310 Chanel boutiques located across the globe; 94 in Asia, 70 in Europe, 10 in the Middle East, 127 in North America, 2 in South America and 6 in Oceania. In addition to the Chanel boutiques, there are many authorized retailers of the Chanel line. Find a collection of expertly vetted Chanel fashions, accessories, and handbags from some of the world’s top reputable boutiques on 1stDibs.
What is a Chanel VIP bag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
An authentic Chanel VIP gift bag or gift item may be given to a few loyal VIP customers who regularly visit the store and spend a significant amount of money on their products. It is not something that the general population can purchase. These gift items are all made with the same attention to detail and fine craftsmanship that you expect from anything with the Chanel brand. Shop a collection of expertly vetted vintage and new Chanel bags from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
How much is a Chanel purse?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
The cost of a Chanel purse depends on its material, rarity, style and condition. On 1stDibs.com, you can purchase a Chanel purse starting from $280.
How do I clean a white Chanel bag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
How to clean white Chanel bags as they are susceptible to light and can turn yellow if exposed for too long by polishing the leather gently with a natural-coloured soft woollen cloth or pat with a fine woollen cloth when wet. Shop a range of authentic Chanel bags on 1stDibs.
How do I clean a Chanel lambskin bag?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To clean a Chanel lambskin bag, Chanel recommends using a soft cloth and avoiding any care products that may alter the finish of your handbag. To reduce the appearance of marks on the surface of lambskin leather, gently rub it in a circular motion. Shop iconic vintage and contemporary Chanel fashions and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
How do I read a Chanel clothing label?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To read a Chanel clothing label, look beneath the Chanel logo tag. There you will see another label with the style number, size and year it was created. If the style number starts with an A, it was from an Autumn collection. P stands for Printemps, which is spring, and C means that item is part of the cruise line. Shop a collection of expertly vetted vintage and new Chanel garments from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

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14 Ways to Spot a Fake Chanel Bag

How do you tell if a Chanel purse is a knockoff or the real deal? We spoke with handbag experts Alexa Ridolfi and Gerry Gallagher about how to authenticate a Chanel bag. Of course, you don’t have to worry about that on 1stDibs, where all our sellers are highly vetted.