The Chanel 2.55 flap bag is one of the most iconic pieces in luxury handbags. The 2.55 it self was designed in February 1955. Coco Chanel herself designed the bag in a way that complimented her romantic lifestyle. She stored her love letters in the zipper compartment of the bag, lipstick in the inside pocket and money in the back pocket. Furthermore she was someone who recognized that the new modern workingwoman needed to have both hands free while carrying her handbag, which is the reason behind the double strap option. The bag itself features a diamond quilt stitch pattern and chain strap. The quilt pattern is now synonymous with the brand. Also, the lining of the bag is usually burgundy. Coco Chanel was believed to have lined it with this color because it was the color of her catholic school uniform. The bag revolutionized the way in which women dressed. It is functional, versatile and stylish. In the early 1980’s Karl Lagerfeld took over Chanel as the new creative director. In February of 2005, Lagerfeld released a reissue in celebration of the bag’s 50^th anniversary. The bag continued to be a hit. There are many other designers that were inspired by the bags design. Chanel itself made the double flap bag, boy bag and Rebecca Minkoff made the mini affair bag.

The main thing that differentiates the 2.55 from the classic flap is the lock. The 2.55 features the mademoiselle lock (it was called mademoiselle because Chanel herself was never married) whilst the classic flap features the traditional double CC logo lock. Another difference between the 2.55 and the classic Chanel is the design of the strap. The 2.55 features a metal only strap, whilst the classic Chanel has a chain with leather woven in between.

There are also two different types of leather a Chanel bag will come in. Caviar leather and Lambskin. Caviar leather almost has a pebbled effect to it, it is also a more durable type of leather. Lambskin is very smooth, soft and delicate.

The brand remains a favorite amongst celebrities. Chanel has even gone as far as having endorsement deals set out for certain celebs.

Today, the bag comes in a multitude of different sizes, designs and colors. It is a piece of iconography for all purse lovers. The starting price for a new purse is around $4,400. Prices go up around 10% every year. The handbag is viewed as an investment since the value of it goes up every year. Furthermore, another reason this bag is a good investment is because of the fact that there is a healthy market out there for vintage Chanel. There will always be someone who is willing to buy a used Chanel bag off of you if it is in pristine condition. Since the bag itself very durable, it’s hard to not keep it in great condition to begin with. It is a classic piece that for many women out there, and considered a must have for those who are willing to splurge a little on their handbags.