- Founded
- 1910
- Based in
- Paris, France
- Known for
- Classic Flap, 2.55
The house
About Chanel
Gabrielle Chanel opened her first shop in Paris in 1910. The quilted flap bag that carries her name for many collectors was introduced in February 1955, which is where the 2.55 gets its name, and its chain strap, threaded with leather, was designed to free the hands.
Chanel bags are defined by their leather (softer lambskin or grained caviar), size (from Mini to Maxi), hardware colour and the era of production, since details such as the lock and the lining change over time. Each listing states the condition grade and what comes with the piece.
Available now
Chanel Pieces
Signature models
Known For
Classic Flap
Diamond-quilted leather, a chain strap threaded with leather, and the interlocking CC turn-lock.
2.55
The original quilted shoulder bag, introduced in February 1955 and named for that date.
Wallet on Chain
A compact flap bag that combines a wallet with a chain strap.
Buying guide
What To Look At
General points worth checking on any Chanel piece. Each listing adds the specifics: condition grade, what is included and any flaws.
01
Caviar leather is grained and more durable; lambskin is softer and shows wear more easily. Both are legitimate choices, they simply age differently.
02
Classic Flap sizes are usually described as Small, Medium, Jumbo and Maxi. Measure against how you plan to carry the bag.
03
Older Chanel pieces carry a serial sticker inside; more recent pieces use an embedded chip instead. The serial format should suit the era of the bag.
04
Look at the corners, the chain and the turn-lock: these are where wear shows first.
Questions
Chanel Answered
What is the Chanel 2.55?
The 2.55 is the original quilted shoulder bag from Chanel, introduced in February 1955, which is where its name comes from. Its chain strap is threaded with leather so it sits comfortably on the shoulder.
What is the difference between caviar and lambskin leather?
Caviar leather is a grained, pebbled calfskin that is generally more durable and resistant to scratches. Lambskin is smoother and softer, with a more luxurious feel, but it marks more easily.
What is a Wallet on Chain?
A Wallet on Chain, often shortened to WOC, is a compact bag that combines the function of a wallet with a chain strap so it can be worn cross-body or on the shoulder.
How does Luxury Club authenticate Chanel pieces?
Every piece is physically inspected by our specialists before it is listed: construction, hardware, materials and markings are checked against what is expected of the maker and the era. Nothing is approved from photographs alone, and every sale includes a Certificate of Authenticity documenting what was verified on that specific piece.
