[Updated with March 2023 Prices] Recently, I had the opportunity to purchase my dream bag, the Chanel Classic flap bag in Beige Clair. I’ve had my eye on this gorgeous bag for years. A few months ago, the timing felt right, and my SA found this bag for me, despite it not being easy to find. Chanel has always been a favorite luxury brand of mine. The brand itself is admirable in that it withstood the test of time, remaining a classic for more than a hundred years.

I always get many questions about my Chanel luxury handbag collection and why I choose to invest in these items considering the hefty price tag. So, here is my complete and honest review of the Chanel Classic Flap bag, focusing on the Beige Clair. In addition, I share my thoughts on investing in a Chanel bag after the recent price increase (July 2021).

Origin of the Chanel Classic Flap bag (Chanel 11.12)

Outfit details via LiketoKnowIt

The origin of the Classic Flap bag begins in February 1955. Gabrielle Chanel created the Chanel 2.55 bag with women’s everyday needs in mind. Specifically, the 2.55 was the first women’s bag to come with a shoulder strap. Before the 1950s, women usually carried bags in their hands. The 2.55 allowed women to keep their hands free by wearing the bag on any shoulder they choose. This iconic bag was named after the date of its creation. The “2” stands for February, 55 for the year 1955. 

The 2.55 bag has been redesigned many times over the years. However, the most significant redesign was in 1983 by Karl Lagerfeld. Previously, the 2.55 bag included the classic square twisting lock, otherwise known as the “Mademoiselle Lock.” Karl Lagerfield changed the Mademoiselle Lock to the iconic interlocking CC clasp we’re so familiar with today. Hence, the Chancel Classic flap, or the 11.12 bag, is born.

Why did you choose the Chanel Classic Flap in Beige Clair?

I love the elegant and timeless look of the Chanel Classic Flap in Beige Clair. It complements most of my wardrobe staples, and it’s perfect to wear during any season.

Should I choose Caviar or Lambskin?

It’s no secret that Caviar is the more durable leather and works well for everyday wear. Over the years, you may see some minor wear and tear on the corners of your flap. However, this should only be minimal. Caviar also comes in different variations, such as shiny Caviar, soft, and matte.

In contrast, Lambskin is less durable than Caviar and wears pretty quickly under daily use. If you choose Lambskin, you’ll need to be mindful of a few things: creases, scratches, and the overall leather condition. The first signs of wear may appear at the bottom of the bag or the corners of the flap. Although Lambskin is worn out reasonably quickly under daily use, keep in mind that Lambskin also varies significantly in quality. 

Recently, Chanel decided to highlight Lambskin in its collections. So this means that more seasonal bags are now produced in Lambskin.

What is the Chanel Classic best bag size and hardware?

Choosing a bag size is based on personal preference. Since I’m a petite woman, I almost chose the small size for the Chanel Classic Flap bag in Beige Clair. The small size feels and looks better on my frame. However, it’s really up to you to choose the bag size that makes you feel good. Overall, the most popular bag sizes tend to be the Medium and Jumbo sizes. Below are some of the other Chanel Classic bag sizes for you to consider:

• Chanel Classic Mini Flap Bag 6.7″ W x 5.2″ H x 3.1″ 
• Chanel Classic Flap Bag – Mini Rectangular: 7.9″ W x 4.9 H x 2.8″ D
• Chanel Classic Flap Bag – Small: 9.3″ W x 5.7″ H x 2.6″ D
• Chanel Classic Flap Bag – Medium: 10″ W x 6.3″ H x 3″ D
• Chanel Classic Flap Bag – Jumbo: 11.8″ W x 7.7″ H x 3.9″ D
• Chanel Classic Flap Bag – Maxi: 13″ W x 9.1″ H x 3.9″ D

As for hardware, the decision comes down to personal preference. Chanel offers different types of hardware available such as gold hardware (GHW), silver hardware (SHW), and ruthenium hardware(RHW). Depending on the season and collection, different variations of the leading hardware types will be available. A few examples are aged gold or shiny silver. 

I chose the gold hardware for the Chanel Classic Bag in Beige Clair because I thought it looked more elegant than the silver hardware. In my opinion, the silver hardware has a more youthful look which will work well with a Chanel Classic bag in a darker color such as Black or Dark Gray. 

Are Chanel Bags worth the investment?

Choosing to invest in a Chanel bag should be a long thought out and responsible decision. No one should ever put themselves in debt to purchase any luxury item. So, don’t worry if it takes you a while to save up for your dream bag. It will feel better if you take the safe route and save up so you can purchase your bag and walk away without any debts. It’s important to note that I didn’t start investing in any luxury item until I knew I was ready financially.

Chanel Bag Prices

Overall, Chanel bags tend to appreciate year-over-year so investing in one is a good choice. According to the S&P, the total nominal return is 48% (not adjusted for inflation) for Chanel Classic bags. In addition, the resale value retains or increases depending on the hardware and leather. I’d say investing in a Chanel bag is a pretty good and stylish investment!

For reference, below are the new March 2023 price changes for the Chanel Classic bag styles. The increase in price for all bags is a 15&-17% uplift from the first price increase in July 2021.

[Updated August 11, 2022] Here are the new prices in Europe:

What is your dream luxury bag, or which Chanel bag is your favorite? Are you as obsessed with it as I am with the Chanel Classic Flap Bag in Beige Clair? I’d love to know! Let me know in the comments below.

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