Image source: Chanel
Introduction
If you’re a seasoned fashionista, chances are you’ve already made the decision to purchase the Chanel Flap Bag—and perhaps felt the frustration when outsiders question your decision. After all, it’s more than just a bag; it’s a cultural icon, a symbol of timeless elegance, and a piece of fashion history.
The Chanel Flap Bag is the perfect example of a bag clearly worth the money, yet it often becomes a point of contention to some couples. So let’s explore the true value of this iconic bag to refresh those arguments for the next time somebody asks.
A Timeless Icon in Fashion History
The Chanel Flap bag needs no introduction. Like a marble bust represents the ancient world of Greece and Rome, the Chanel Flap bag represents the history of fashion as we know it today.
Though not the first bag Chanel designed, the Flap Bag is the one most closely associated with her legacy, along with other iconography such as her Chanel No. 5 perfume, the four-leaf clover, and the little black dress.
Chanel herself was a woman who came from deep poverty, overcoming countless struggles in her early life. Yet, through perseverance, education, and socializing, she climbed the ladder of French society in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
This bag is a creation that could only come from someone like her—someone who had no other choice but to be independent and learned both the struggles and benefits that came with it.
You can still see hints of her journey through the bag's legendary features.
Features That Redefined Functionality
Let’s start with the most obvious one, the ability to wear it hands free.
This was a first of its kind, and the liberation of another hand had far bigger positive ripples for women’s daily lives than one might think. This, in combination with Chanel’s push to move fashion away from big, unwieldy dresses to slim, sexy looks, provided a new level of freedom and mobility not seen until this point (that was unprecedented at the time).
Another thoughtful detail can be found on the back of the bag: a slim, open compartment. While nowadays it’s perfect for holding your phone, it was originally intended for quick access to money without having to risk opening your bag.
Inside, the surprises continue. Turn the iconic twist-lock, and you’ll find a zipper pocket beneath the first flap. Rumor has it that this pocket wasn’t originally a pocket at all, but a slice in the leather made with a knife to conceal love letters from Chanel’s affairs. Whether true or not, the story was good enough to stick.
Finally, opening the bag’s second flap reveals 2 pockets and a centered compartment made exclusively for a single lipstick. Now that is extra!
CHANEL Lambskin Matelasse W Flap 25 Black Shoulder Bag on ZenPlus
Now, I know what you’re saying; “Magnus! I can’t give this argument to my hubby, it’ll never fly!”
Well, yes, I agree, however, it cannot be overstated how much this intangible value affects the bags' worth, which is relevant for this next point.
The Chanel Flap Bag as an Investment
Unlike the price of gold, which, while going upwards, still has its ups and downs, Chanel’s prices only go one way; up! In 1955, you could purchase the original Chanel 2.55 for $220, but today in 2024, you’ll be shilling out around $10,800. While many of their bags decrease in price on the second-hand market, Chanel’s classics and limited editions tend to retain or even exceed their original value as soon as they hit the market.
Keep in mind, Chanel increases their prices once or even twice a year. According to Chanel’s Chief Financial Officer, Philippe Blondiaux, this strategy accounts for currency fluctuations and inflation. Besides that, purchasing a Chanel bag isn’t as simple as adding it to your cart on their website. You must call for an inquiry as they regulate production to avoid market saturation and maintain a steady flow of high-intent buyers.
Image source: Chanel
Due to this exclusivity, wearing a Chanel Flap bag puts you in an exclusive club of owners, and showing up to an occasion with the iconic leathered chain, CC mark and matelassé stitch is a clear sign that you take whatever you're doing seriously and wish to show it. This level of social status from a bag does not come easily, and will provide opportunity in social circles that can be very beneficial for you.
If you’re a small business owner, it’s an excellent way to elevate your presence. Dress up, engage with others about their bags, and take the chance to learn about their lives and interests. You may just build relationships with individuals who can become powerful allies.
Karl Lagerfeld: Redefining an Icon
There are many powerful people who’s had their hands on the Chanel Flap Bag, and we cannot talk about this bag without mentioning legendary fashion designer Karl Lagerfeldt, who introduced the redesigned Classic Flap Bag in 1983, with the iconic interlocking CC logo clasp, during his time as creative director for the brand. He retained Coco Chanel’s original vision while modernizing the bag for a new generation.
Lagerfeld didn’t stop at the clasp—he revitalized the bag’s overall appeal by experimenting with new materials, colors, and patterns, making it adaptable to evolving fashion trends while retaining its timeless elegance. Lagerfeld's designs pushed the boundaries of luxury and created a new era of Chanel bags.
Under Lagerfeld’s leadership, he was not only elevated the Chanel Flap Bag but also solidified its position as one of the most sought-after luxury items in the world—a perfect marriage of tradition and innovation.
Timeless Art in the Form of a Bag
2023 Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel exhibition at the V&A
Madam Coco Chanel essentially sculpted the world of fashion in her own image, and it is that world we live in today(creating a legacy that continues to influence the industry today). The Chanel Flap Bag stands as a symbol not only of the brand itself but also of the visionary woman behind it—Coco Chanel.
Just like the art of the ancient world is relevant to this day, expect the Chanel Flap Bag to have a place in fashion not just 200, but 2000 years from its inception.
The value of art is after all intangible, yet undeniable.
Your Chanel Flap Bag Awaits
If you want our own Chanel Flap Bag, ZenPlus has a wide selection of preloved beauties waiting for the right person to take it into infinity. If the 10,000 USD price tag is daunting, here you’ll find them for half, and sometimes lower.
About The Writer
Magnus Paslawski has three years of professional experience as a re-seller and auctioneer of luxury goods. He currently does marketing for ZenPop.jp but is always up to date on the designer world.
