Chanel classic flap review: this post features my pink Chanel classic flap from the 2017 cruise Cuba collection.

My very first Chanel

5 years ago, when I was pregnant with my first child (2016-2017), the pregnancy was a rough one, so the husband suggested I get myself a really special push gift.

At that time, I didn’t own ANY Chanel bags yet. This was a time that I was heavily into Mulberry bags, and owned a few of them (such as the Mulberry Lily and Bayswater).

Chanel classic flap review

Classic Double CC turnlock

However, I was crazy about the colour pink. 

Double flap, with front pocket section

It so happened that, that year for the 2017 Chanel cruise collection (Cuba), pink was one of the season’s colours.

Timidly, I went in store, tried on the bag, and the rest is history.

Chanel classic flap pink review

And this pink baby came home with me

This was my very FIRST Chanel bag. The excitement and joy of FINALLY owning one started to sink in. 
Chanel classic flap pink review

Double Flap

For this Chanel Classic Flap review, I must say. the more I used this bag, the more I loved it. This signified the beginning of my Chanel addiction.

I loved the classic flap SO MUCH that I ended up getting a single flap version in the black chevron.

Chanel Large Quilted Chevron Flap: Bag Review

And, it intensified my existing love for pink bags. This is evident in my choice of Lady Dior colours, and my possession of a Hermes Constance 18 in Rose Confetti.

Hermes Constance 18 in Rose Confetti: a review

There was no turning back anymore. Lol.

Chanel Classic flap review – structure

The bag has a double flap. The reasons for such are beautifully documented by FashionForLunch. But in short, it helps to retain the shape of the bag for a longer period of time.

With the strap – front view

Interiorly, there is one open main compartment, with a front pocket.

Inside the Chanel classic flap

At the back, there are two smaller pockets – these fit cardholders. And there is a smaller compartment meant for lipstick. 

Details, Details: Embroidered Cannage at its Finest

Now, let’s see what exactly fits in there.

Chanel Classic Flap review: what fits

x1 long wallet, x3 card holders, x1 lipstick, x1 eyeshadow palette.

What fits in the Chanel Classic Flap

Behind the bag is a small pocket. Just right for fitting in loose cash or a cardholder.

Back pocket

Fits right in

If I require a larger wallet that day, I usually bring along the Hermes Bearn long wallet. 

Long wallet

While the long wallet looks like it takes up quite a bit of space, there’s still room for more items.

In the two back pockets, one can slide a card holder in each.

Chanel classic flap review what fits

Two card holders + Long wallet

That little round pocket in the middle at the back is just the perfect size for a lipstick. 
Chanel classic flap review what fits

Two card holders + Long wallet + Lipstick

Joining in are a few more additions to the main compartment: a card holder, eye palette, and key holder.

Two card holders  (back) + Long wallet + Lipstick + card holder (main) + eye palette

Two card holders  (back) + Long wallet + Lipstick + card holder (main) + eye palette + key holder

Sidenote – it is possible to fit a couple of cardholders or keyholders in the front pocket, but I don’t typically do it – just a personal habit. 

Optional: usage of front pocket

Mod Shots

As this is a classic flap, I tend to use it either on the crook of the arm or as a shoulder bag. 

Chanel classic flap mod shot

Hanging on the crook of the arm

In terms of colour palette, this bag goes with with both neutral-coloured clothing or pastel-coloured ones.
Chanel classic flap mod shot

Hanging off the shoulder

As a shoulder bag, the chain can either be used as a single chain (and the bag will hang to about waist-level), or as a double chain  (where the bag will just sit nicely under the arm). 
Chanel classic flap mod shot

Hanging off the shoulder – with chain doubled up

I know some people use this bag as a crossbody, but I personally do not. If I tried, it bangs into my chest in a weird manner. It’s also kind of uncomfortably right.

I supposed this method works only if one is very petite or fairly flat-chested.

Chanel classic flap mod shot

Crossbody? Not recommended. Lol.

Overall Pros and Cons

Pros of the Chanel Classic Flap

  • It is a CLASSIC bag. It’s been around for ages, and the design will never go out of style.
  • The bag has great resale value. Especially as the price of Chanel bags keeps going up.
  • Comes in a wide variety of colours – with each season Chanel unveils exciting new shades.
  • Versatile. I’ve used this for dressy events, for jeans and t-shirt, and with work outfits – it works for literally all occasions (and mind you, I’ve got the PINK one; I imagine that a neutral colour would be even easier to match with the wardrobe).
Chanel classic flap mod shot

Chanel with a jeans and white top

Cons of the Chanel Classic Flap

  • Current prices are insane. At the time of writing, the medium classic flap for a little over SGD 13, 000. Chanel’s recent price increases are the worst; I’m honestly so glad I got my classic flap five years ago. At this point, due to the crazy prices, I don’t think I’ll buy another classic flap at full price ever again.
  • This is debatable – but it is rumoured that the quality of current Chanel bags isn’t like what it used to be. I’m unable to personally confirm this, but the fact that it’s rumoured is enough to put buyers off. Especially at this kind of price – you’d honestly expect the bag’s quality to be top-notch.
  • For its size, the leather bag is kind of heavy. This may not be an issue for the mini, small, or medium-sized version, but the jumbo and above can really be weighty. I’ve tried on the jumbo, and the chains just dig into the shoulder if the bag is stuffed full.

Hope this helps anyone who’s thinking of getting the bag.

Chanel classic flap mod shot

I’m walking away~

Dear readers – Do you love bags in general? To see my entire , click on the link below to see what’s in my bag collection (As of August 2020).

My Bag Collection (August 2020)

Note: If you love bags, feel free to follow me on Social Media. Especially on instagram; i post lots of bag pictures there and would love for you to join me on my bag journeys.

What fits in the bag

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