How to Choose Your First Chanel Handbag: 5 Essential Tips
If you love Chanel and fashion as much as I do, you have wanted a Chanel handbag forever. And if you’re reading this blog post, then it’s too late to tell you it is not a financially wise decision to purchase one and that it is better to invest your money. You have made up your mind and want to buy a Chanel bag. So I would love to share with you my tips on how to choose a Chanel bag wisely.
Since purchasing a Chanel handbag is an investment, you want to choose carefully. Chanel handbags are one of the few designer handbags that retain their value and even increase over time.
How to Choose your First Chanel Handbag: 5 Essential Tips
Whether it’s spring or fall, a leather Chanel bag will elevate any outfit. If you’ve been dreaming of owning a Chanel handbag, this is the guide for you. You’ll learn the basics of how to choose your first Chanel bag. From style tips to budget advice, I have all the info you need to make sure your first Chanel purchase is a stylish success.
01. The Most Important Tip on Choosing Your First Chanel Handbag: The Style
The most important thing to consider when buying your first Chanel or any designer handbag is to select a classic style. If you have the means, then go ahead and splurge on the newest styles. Otherwise, you will want your handbag to last a lifetime.
The most classic, iconic, and ageless handbag is the Chanel Classic Medium Flap Handbag. This classic flap bag is crafted of diamond-quilted caviar leather in black. It features a polished silver, leather-threaded chain-link shoulder strap, an exterior rear flat pocket, and a front flap with a silver CC turn lock. It opens to a second flap and a black leather interior with patch pockets. This is a perfect shoulder bag for all occasions. This handbag has always been in style, and will never go out of style. It suits the style of anyone no matter what age you are. If you want something timeless with a little bit of edge—the classic flap bag might just be for you!
Other classic Chanel handbag options are the Classic Wallet on Chain and the Medium Boy Bag.
If you want something more modern but still classic-looking, then you should consider the Chanel Boy Bag. This structured style was created in 2011 by former Creative Director Karl Lagerfeld as an homage to Coco Chanel’s love for masculine fashion. Perfectly sized for everyday use, the bag features a unique quilted pattern and glossy gold hardware—it’s sure to make a statement!
02. How to Choose Your First Chanel Handbag: The Color
Again, like I discussed with the style, you will want to choose a classic color, such as black or neutral colors. The seasonal colors are beautiful, but they are only good for a season. Avoid bright colors like red or yellow, as they won’t go with as many outfits. Black is always a safe choice for a Chanel handbag, but if you want to be more adventurous, try a neutral like taupe or gray.
03. How to Choose Your First Chanel Handbag: Leather
There are a few different types of leather that Chanel uses for its handbags, but the two most popular choices are lambskin and aged calfskin:
- Lambskin is a soft, delicate type of leather that’s perfect for luxury items like handbags and wallets. Lambskin is buttery soft and has a luxurious feel. It’s also very lightweight, which makes it a good choice for smaller bags.
- Aged calfskin is a bit more rugged and durable than lambskin, making it a better option for larger bags or those who tend to be hard on their belongings. Aged calfskin is easy to take care of and will last longer. There’s always canvas and metal lambskin, but aged calfskin, or caviar, is the most likely to last for years.
04. How to Choose Your First Chanel Handbag: Chain
Choosing the right type of chain for your Chanel handbag is an important part of creating a timeless, polished look. When selecting the perfect chain for your Chanel bag, there are several factors to consider.
The size and weight of the chain should be appropriate for the size and style of the bag.
But the most important factors are the metal type and color of the chain.
Ruthenium metal chains are the most high-end and expensive option, followed by brass chains, and then nickel chains. You have the options of gold tone, silver tone, and black. This is a personal preference. I went with a gold tone. Again, silver and gold are classic, iconic choices.
05. Where to Buy Your First Chanel Handbag: Paris or Consignment Shops
If you see a Paris trip in your future, then I suggest buying a Chanel handbag in the city where it all started. Paris is home to some of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses, and Chanel is no exception. You can find exclusive boutiques carrying the latest designs, as well as vintage shops with timeless classics.
Otherwise, check out the best online consignment shops to buy your favorite Chanel bag. They offer the best deals on Chanel handbags and shoulder bags. Buying a pre-owned Chanel bag can be a great way to get a high-quality bag at a fraction of the price you’d pay for a new one. Just be sure to inspect the item carefully before purchasing to make sure it’s authentic and in good condition.
Do some research beforehand so you know exactly what kind of features and hallmarks to look out for when shopping around (things like serial numbers, logos, stitching, etc.). This way, there won’t be any surprises when it comes time to make your purchase!
Now You’re Prepared to Buy a Chanel Handbag!
Investing in a Chanel handbag is an exciting experience—but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know what to look out for! By following these tips about style selection and where to buy authentic Chanel bags, I hope this guide has helped equip you with all the information you need before making your very first Chanel handbag purchase.
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Do you own a Chanel handbag? Let me know in a comment below!
With gratitude,
Liz
