Chanel's Most Popular Bag: The Classic Double Flap

It’s a dream piece I’ve longed for since my teenage years, and a couple of years ago, I finally had the opportunity to add it to my designer bag collection. This bag not only holds a special place in my collection but also stands as an iconic piece in the world of vintage fashion.

The History

First, let’s talk about the significance of the Chanel Classic Double Flap. Introduced by Coco Chanel in 1955 as the 2.55 bag (later updated by Karl Lagerfeld in the 1980s with the interlocking CC clasp), the Double Flap carries a rich history. The early '90s were a pivotal time for Chanel, with Karl Lagerfeld firmly at the helm, infusing the brand with his visionary creativity while staying true to Coco Chanel's original ethos. Owning a bag from this era feels like I own a piece of fashion history—a tangible link to a time when Chanel was redefining luxury for a new generation.

The Classic Flap Design

This bag is one of Chanel's most known designs, and for good reason. It’s the perfect marriage of form and function, with a silhouette that’s both elegant and practical. The double flap isn’t just for show; it actually serves to protect your belongings while maintaining the bag’s structured shape.

The interior of the bag is thoughtfully organized, with a small zip pocket on the inner flap—rumored to have been Coco Chanel’s secret compartment for love letters—and a larger compartment that comfortably fits all my essentials. It’s the kind of bag that can effortlessly transition from day to night, from casual outings to formal events. Whether I’m pairing it with jeans and a blazer or styling it with a little black dress for an evening out, this bag always makes me feel polished and put-together.

Why Vintage Chanel?

I personally went the vintage route for my own collection ( I own a Small and Medium Flap) as the quality of their vintage models were made with lustrous 24kt gold plated hardware- something they stopped including by 2008. Additionally, choosing vintage means more to me than simply aesthetics—it’s a conscious decision to appreciate the quality of well-made fashion while embracing sustainability. I love that my own Chanel Classic Flap has a few tiny signs of wear—they tell a story, one that adds depth and personality to my bag. It's also a bag that I continue to source for our Bag Drops to this day as it's an excellent choice as it's proven to be an investment piece retaining or even increasing in value overtime.

Sharing my entire vintage Chanel collection on my Youtube channel:

The Verdict

In the end, the Chanel Classic Double Flap is a slice of fashion history and a treasure that I cherish in my own handbag collection. It’s a bag that embodies everything I love about vintage Chanel: the luxury, the craftsmanship, and its timeless style.

If you ever have the chance to add a Chanel Classic Double Flap to your collection, I say go for it. It’s a decision you won’t regret. After all, some things are simply too beautiful to pass up.