Top 10 Most Popular Chanel Handbags: Complete Guide
Chanel bags are an icon that almost every woman has come across at least once. Their elegant design adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit, regardless of age. However, given their high price, you might wonder if Chanel’s classic bags are really worth it. To help you decide, we’re breaking down 10 of the most popular Chanel bag models, covering everything from materials to design so you can understand what makes them so special.
What Makes Chanel Bags So Special?
One of the most outstanding appeals of Chanel bags is the wide range of options available for different occasions. In this article, we’ll introduce 10 iconic Chanel models, including those perfect for casual outings and others for formal events like parties. For example, you can choose the compact Mini Matelasse for a light and stylish look when going out or the spacious Deauville for travel. Each of the 10 classic models we’ll cover includes recommendations on the best occasions to use them and which age groups they suit. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect Chanel bag for your needs.
History of Chanel
Chanel Modes, a hat shop founded in Paris in 1910 by Gabrielle Coco Chanel, immediately became well-known among celebrities. Over the years, Chanel has become one of the most recognizable fashion labels, having an impact on the sector. Chanel still reflects its founder's vision in all its designs, especially its handbags, even though hats are no longer its primary focus.
What Makes Chanel’s Matelasse Bag So Appealing?
The first classic model you should know about is the Matelasse. Regarding Chanel bags, the Matelasse is one of the most popular choices. Its charm comes from being inspired by the “2.55,” a classic design created by Coco Chanel herself. This bag is made from various materials, including calfskin, crocodile, and python, offering a luxurious and diverse selection.
Why the Matelasse Remains Chanel’s Most Popular Classic Bag
The 2.55, designed by Coco Chanel, was created when shoulder bags were uncommon. It beautifully combines style and practicality, offering women a stylish and functional handbag.
The 2.55 was designed with women in mind. It featured an inner pocket for storing cosmetics and small accessories, and its double-layered flap allowed for secure storage of cards. Every detail was crafted for both convenience and elegance.
At the same time, its unique design made it a symbolic piece, establishing it as a signature item of Chanel. Later, the legendary Karl Lagerfeld, known as the "Emperor of Fashion," reconsidered the 2.55 with a modern touch, leading to the creation of the Matelasse.
Designed by two creators, it’s no surprise that this bag became a lasting classic and remains one of Chanel’s most appreciated pieces.
Materials of Matelasse
When choosing a bag, the material is an essential factor that reflects personal preference. The Matelasse comes in various materials, allowing you to find the perfect match for your style. We’ll break down the different material options into key categories to help you find your ideal choice.
Caviar Skin
Caviar skin is a material with a finely textured, bumpy surface resembling caviar embossed onto sheepskin or calfskin. Matelasse bags made from this leather have a smooth, non-glossy finish and are durable, offering resistance to scratches and water. Black caviar skin, in particular, is a flexible option that pairs well with any outfit, making it suitable for various occasions.
Enamel Leather (Patent Leather)
Patent leather, also called enamel leather, has a glossy coating that gives it a bold and stylish appearance. Its shiny finish helps maintain a fresh, like-new look over time. Additionally, the coated surface makes it resistant to moisture, making it a possible choice even on rainy days.
Crocodile & Python Leather
The Matelasse is also available in luxurious crocodile and python leather models. These materials are rare options in Chanel’s current collections and are mostly found on the pre-owned market. For those looking for something unique and special, these exotic leather options are a great choice if you have the chance to purchase one.
Other Materials
- Denim
- Tweed
- Satin
- Nylon
- Canvas
- PVC
- Straw (Basket Weave)
- Suede
- Velour
- Velvet
- Shearling
The Matelasse has been available in a wide range of materials, including past models, allowing for seasonal adaptability. Some people own multiple pieces to suit different occasions, so take the time to explore and find the perfect material that matches your personal style.
Top 10 Popular Chanel Bags
Now, let’s take a closer look at 10 of Chanel’s most classic bags. Chanel bags offer a wide range of styles, making them suitable for both casual and formal occasions, with each model designed for various uses. Since luxury bags are meant to be long-term investments, understanding their unique features will help you choose wisely and ensure you make a purchase you’ll be satisfied with for years to come.
Matelasse
As mentioned earlier, the Matelasse is one of Chanel’s most popular bags. However, its appearance varies significantly depending on the model. Previously, the Matelasse was considered a sophisticated accessory, mainly preferred by women in their 30s and 40s. However, with the addition of brighter colors, it has also become increasingly popular among younger generations.
The bag comes in five different sizes, with the Matelasse 25 being the most beloved. Its well-balanced size makes it highly adjustable, allowing it to be worn as a crossbody bag or carried on the shoulder or arm by adjusting the strap.
With its adaptable design, the Matelasse is a piece that complements a variety of occasions and styles, for those looking for something unique, vintage Matelasse bags offer additional charm with chain designs and exceptional materials.Exploring luxury resale stores can be a great way to find these special pieces.
Chain Bags
Among luxury brands, Chanel offers one of the most varied collections of chain bags. The signature elegant metal hardware and high-quality leather make Chanel’s chain designs unique. While these chains enhance elegance, they may appear too noticeable for formal occasions. However, they are well-suited for summer retreats, casual outings, or social gatherings.
The popular chain design is not only used for bags but also for pouches and wallets.
Collecting matching items can create a more coordinated and stylish look. For example, pairing a black Matelasse chain bag with a charming Camellia wallet can create a beautiful ensemble. Among Chanel's chain bags, some of the most popular styles include spacious drawstring bags, mini bags that can also function as wallets, and handle-equipped designs with removable chains, offering both convenience and elegance.
Chanel also offers silver and black chain bags for those who prefer an alternative to gold-tone chains. Some models also feature gold and silver chains, providing even more styling options to suit different preferences.
Mini Matelasse
Mini Matelasse is a compact version of the classic Matelasse, designed to keep the same elegant look in a smaller size. It is closer in size to a pouch rather than a traditional handbag, making it a popular choice for women who prefer to carry minimal essentials such as a phone, earbuds, lipstick, and a wallet.
Its compact design makes it convenient for various occasions, whether visiting a theme park, running errands, or any situation where carrying a larger bag might feel inconvenient. Additionally, its understated size allows it to blend effortlessly into any outfit, while bolder colors can act as stylish accents to enhance different looks.
Top Handle
Next, we introduce the Top Handle, a bag that can be used as both a handbag and a shoulder bag. It is often compared to the Coco Handle, but the Top Handle has its unique charm, making it a popular choice in Chanel’s collection.
One of the standout features of Chanel’s Top Handle is the elegance of its shape when carried by the handle. Many people are attracted to the shape, which sets it apart from other luxury brand handbags and influences their decision to purchase it.
Its main competitors include Dior’s Cannage and Celine’s 16, which feature similar structured styles. If you have the chance, try holding the Top Handle to see its shape in person. Its eye-catching design makes it a highly recommended addition to any collection.
CC Logo
The CC Logo is an eye-catching bag featuring Chanel’s large, remarkably displayed logo. This model is especially popular among Chanel fans who appreciate the brand’s signature style. Often referred to as a “logo-dominated” design, it has a bold presence while continuing to be a timeless favorite among buyers.
The CC logo series includes a variety of styles, from shoulder bags to handbags, offering a wide range of choices. This is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a bag that represents Chanel’s signature style. However, due to its large logo, it may not be the best option for formal occasions, where a more understated bag would be more suitable.
Unlike Chanel’s simpler, monochrome designs, some CC logo bags come in bold, vibrant colors, including rainbow variations. A classic black Chanel bag might be a better fit if you prefer a more elegant look.
Deauville
The Deauville is a tote bag that suits anyone, making it a simple choice for everyday use. While Chanel is often known for its smaller shoulder bags, the Deauville has become a classic option. It leans more towards a casual style rather than formal, making it ideal for private outings and relaxed occasions.
Although it has a large appearance, it remains lightweight and is designed with outstanding strength, ensuring it can withstand frequent use without losing quality. The bag’s fabric is crafted with great attention to detail, making it practical and stylish.
One special feature of the Deauville’s lettering is that it is woven into the fabric with jacquard weaving instead of being printed, giving it a textured and raised look, making this tote an excellent choice for travel, especially for resort destinations. The size comes in three sizes: PM, MM, and GM. The GM size provides plenty of space for everything needed on a short trip, making it a highly recommended option for travel.
Vanity
The Vanity Bag takes its name from the French word for "makeup box" and is characterized by its box-like, structured shape. Originally designed to store cosmetics, it features a well-organized interior allowing storage and easy access to necessities. While it can be used for everyday outings, it is exceptionally reasonable for travel, making it ideal for those who like to carry multiple beauty products on the go. In addition to the classic handbag style, there are chain-strap versions, allowing it to be worn as a shoulder bag for added versatility.
Classic
The Classic is a popular model that has remained unchanged in design and continues to be loved for generations. The Classic Matelasse features a double flap, ensuring that small items like lipstick won’t slip through gaps.
Although it is priced slightly higher than other bags, its design, materials, and ease of use make it a perfect choice. The Mini Flap Bag, the smallest model, is pocket-sized, while the Classic Maxi Handbag offers ample space, with a total of five different sizes available.
As Chanel has recently introduced a wider range of colors to suit modern trends, its popularity has grown among buyers in their 20s and 30s, making it exciting to see more unique color variations being widely embraced alongside the brand’s signature monochrome designs.
Coco Handle
Introduced in 2015, the Coco Handle is a modern classic widely known by this name, though its official name is the Top Handle Flap Bag. The Coco Handle features a wide, structured handle designed for women to comfortably carry on their arms, while its compartmentalized interior ensures practicality and organization for everyday use.
As one of Chanel’s newer models, it incorporates modern fashion elements and comes in luxurious materials like python, tweed, and lambskin, with some versions even featuring a lizard leather handle for a rare and distinctive touch, making it a highly recommended choice for those seeking a unique and standout bag.
Shoulder Bag
When it comes to Chanel, shoulder bags are one of its creations. It is said that Coco Chanel designed the world’s first shoulder bag, making it a revolutionary piece that remains just as significant today.
Chanel has continued to produce high-quality shoulder bags to meet these high expectations for many years. While tote bags and handbags are also popular, Chanel’s shoulder bags hold a special place in the brand’s collection. With models like the Matelasse and Coco Handle, designs are customized for various occasions, making a Chanel shoulder bag a must-have for many women.
Chanel offers some of the finest options if you are looking for a stylish and timeless shoulder bag for everyday outings or special events.
4 Key Points for Choosing a Chanel Bag
We have introduced 10 classic Chanel bag models, but selecting the right one can be challenging with such a wide variety available. To help make the decision easier, here are four key points to consider when choosing a Chanel bag.
1. How to Choose a Chanel Bag: Select by Bag Line
Chanel offers a variety of bag lines, including:
- Matelasse
- Deauville
- Cambon
- Boy Chanel
- Choco Bar
Each bag line has a unique concept, so choosing based on personal preference is key. For those who love classic designs, the Matelasse is the best option, while the Cambon, featuring bold logo details, makes a strong statement. The Deauville tote is an excellent choice if you need a sizable bag.Since some collections may be more suited for specific occasions, it’s best to consider when and where you plan to use the bag before deciding, but if you're still unsure, choosing a classic model like the Matelasse is always a safe option.
2. How to Choose a Chanel Bag: Select by Materials
Chanel bags come in a wide variety of materials, and selecting based on texture and appearance can be a great approach, with tweed and patent leather (enamel) being excellent choices for a luxurious and eye-catching look.
If you’re interested in exotic materials like crocodiles, it’s best to see them in person, as their unique texture and quality are difficult to notice through photos fully. Calfskin and crocodile are highly recommended for a more classic and commonly chosen option.
These materials are often seen in everyday fashion, offering elegance and lasting quality. Both calfskin and crocodile leather are smooth and easy to maintain, and with proper care, they can be used for the long term.
3. How to Choose a Chanel Bag: Select by Color and Design
Chanel bags come in various designs, ensuring you’ll find one that suits your taste. While black remains a classic choice that aligns with the brand’s image, lighter colors like pale pink and blue have become increasingly popular, especially among younger buyers.
For those who prefer an attention-grabbing bag, the Coco Mark and Cambon lines stand out with their prominent logos. Although Chanel bags may appear simple at first glance, the brand’s attention to detail ensures that even similar models can have completely different impressions upon closer inspection, so when choosing your bag, it’s essential to consider how the color and design will complement your wardrobe to find the perfect item that reflects your personal style.
4. How to Choose a Chanel Bag: Choose by Investment Values
While we've already discussed the importance of selecting a Chanel bag based on factors like color, design, and collection, another vital consideration is the potential investment value. Deciding based on the bag's future resale value can be an innovative approach, especially for iconic models like the Chanel Classic Flap Bag, which has seen its price rise significantly over the past decade, making it a worthwhile investment.
Below are the collections that have increased in value over the past 10 years.
- Chanel 2.55 Reissue: Over the past 10 years, its value has increased by more than 100%.
- Chanel Boy Bag: The Boy Bag has seen its value rise by over 100%, gaining popularity among both collectors and celebrities.
- Chanel Grand Shopping Tote (GST): Since being discontinued, the GST's resale price has increased by over 100%.
- Chanel Timeless Clutch: While its value increase is more modest than other Chanel bags, it has risen by 50-75% in the past 10 years.
- Chanel Gabrielle Bag: Early versions of the Gabrielle Bag have increased by more than 50%, further establishing it as a collectible.
- Chanel Camera Bag: The price of the Camera Bag has risen between 75% and 100% in the last decade, making it a valuable investment.
- Chanel Medallion Tote: After its discontinuation, its value has risen by more than 100%, making it highly desirable on the resale market.
- Chanel Diana Flap Bag: The price of the Diana bag has more than doubled on the vintage market, making it a coveted item for collectors.
- Chanel Wallet on Chain (WOC): The price of the WOC has doubled over the last decade, reflecting its increasing popularity and solid investment potential.
Why have Chanel Bags Been Loved as Classics for So Long?
Chanel bags continue to carry the vision of founder Coco Chanel, who championed the liberation of women, and this vision is still reflected in collections like the Matelasse, which are designed to be both classic and practical, made with only the finest materials.
The high quality and vision resonate deeply with consumers, leading to the tradition of passing down these bags from parents to their kids, as few brands can create such lasting, valuable pieces, making Chanel bags something you can proudly carry in any situation. Their immense popularity has also led to increased imitations and even highly convincing "super fakes," making authentication more crucial than ever. A unique quality becomes clear once you own a real one, so be sure to find the bag that suits your style.
Conclusion
- Matelasse is a classic Chanel bag.
- It is recommended that you choose a Chanel bag based on its material and design.
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The vision of the brand’s founder is still carried on in Chanel bags today.
In this article, we introduced 10 classic Chanel bag models, and Chanel bags are items that strongly focus not only on design but also on the quality of the materials used. Due to their popularity, it’s rare to find them in stock at official stores, making it challenging to find the specific material or color you want, and it may take time before you can acquire one.
However, in the second-hand market, past models that are no longer available or scarce pieces occasionally surface. Since Chanel bags are made with durability in mind, even second-hand ones will offer the same comfort and use as new ones. Gallery Rare is highly recommended if you want to purchase a Chanel bag second-hand.
*Please note that the prices listed in our blog are for reference only and are converted from Japanese Yen (JPY) to US Dollars (USD) using the exchange rate of April 2025. Prices on the sales site include customs duties and shipping fees. Actual exchange rates may vary.