Chanel 2.55 & Flap Bag: Two Fashion Icons

In the world of fashion, few accessories can boast the same prestige as the classic flap bag and the 2.55 by Chanel. These two iconic creations embody the timeless elegance and visionary audacity of the house founded by Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel. From their revolutionary design to their modernized reissue by Karl Lagerfeld, these bags have become more than just accessories: they symbolize refined luxury and unparalleled craftsmanship.

The Origin of a Myth: Coco Chanel's Classic Flap Bag

The history of the Chanel flap bag dates back to 1929, when Coco Chanel decided to free women from the constraints of rigid and uncomfortable fashion. Visionary as ever, she took inspiration from military bags to design a model with a gold chain interwoven with leather, allowing the bag to be worn over the shoulder and keeping the hands free.

• Burgundy leather lining: inspired by the uniforms of the orphanage where Chanel grew up.
• Metal chain: reminiscent of the chatelaines worn by nuns.
• Quilted diamond pattern: inspired by the jackets worn by jockeys.
• Double CC clasp: an emblem of the house and an ingenious locking system.

The 2.55: A Revolution by Chanel

In February 1955, Chanel perfected her concept by launching the famous 2.55. This slightly more structured bag introduced a new closure called "Mademoiselle", a tribute to Coco Chanel who never married.

• "Mademoiselle" lock: replacing the CC clasp.
• Raw metal chain: without interwoven leather.
• Double flap: providing additional storage.
• Vintage leathers: offering a timeless and elegant look.

https://www.encherissez.com/en/online-valuationKarl Lagerfeld's Reissue: Tribute and Modernity

When Karl Lagerfeld took over Chanel’s artistic direction in 1983, he reissued the 2.55 in 2005 to celebrate its 50th anniversary. He also streamlined Chanel’s handbag offerings:

• The classic flap bag with the CC clasp and interwoven leather chain.
• The 2.55 Reissue, faithful to the 1955 model.

These models are available in a wide range of sizes and luxurious materials: lambskin, caviar calf, tweed, and modern textiles. The 2.55 Reissue, with its aged leather, continues to appeal to purists, while the classic flap bag embodies timeless elegance.

An Everlasting Legacy

The Chanel flap bag and the 2.55 are timeless investments, collector’s pieces that span decades without losing their prestige. Worn by the biggest celebrities and coveted by fashion enthusiasts, they perfectly embody Chanel’s essence: elegance, innovation, and timelessness.

Whether it’s the classic flap bag or the 2.55 Reissue, each model tells a story—one of Coco Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld, two visionaries who redefined feminine elegance and set an unparalleled standard of style.