My coveted bag is the Chanel Classic Flap. In black, of course, but undecided on the type of leather.
Introduced in 1983 when Karl Lagerfeld began as Chanel’s creative director, the Classic Flap is a reimagined design of the original 2.55 bag that Coco herself presented in February 1955 (hence, 2.55).
I have gone back and forth about whether I want the Classic Flap or the 2.55 version. What hasn’t changed is that I want one from the 1980’s-2000’s. Why? Nostalgia for owning a bag from the decades I fell in love with it, and when I proudly wore a knock-off that my grandmother bought me. Plus, the pre-2008-ish era has gold-plated hardware and some patina. Imagine what those bags have seen!
Now, for those of us who are not wealthy, the bag’s price tag can be shocking, and keeps rising. It’s a good thing that I want to buy vintage, and I want to buy it in Paris, where Chanel is less expensive than it is in the States. Still, even vintage Paris prices are a bit daunting. Definitely an investment.
In Paris, Chanel bags are everywhere. On women, in store display, within the second-hand designer boutiques. There are entire vintage stores dedicated to Chanel. Which means that I will have lots of options to select from when I’m ready to shop.
The plan is to purchase The Bag, classic flap version, in Paris, during my 55th birthday trip. The 55 is a nice nod to Coco’s 2.55.
In the meantime, I will collect and invest in items at more affordable price points and share them with you in future Frenchpiration posts and on My List.
I’ve been dreaming about The Bag since my early teens. It’s my inspiration, my vision.
What’s your “bag?” Something you’ve always wanted to own, or someplace you’ve always wanted to go?
Au revoir until next time,
~Valerie’s Granddaughter