Few bags have truly stood the test of time and become coveted designer accessories that transcend generations of women and style over the years -- one of those few include some signature Chanel handbags.
The classic Chanel Flap bag is one such bag and along with it, a seemingly modern version in the bolder Boy Chanel and last year’s brand new Gabrielle bag collection demonstrate the core aesthetics of Mademoiselle Chanel – a blend of purity and practicality, sensing women’s desire for a liberating and modern usage – held together in harmony by its trademark diamond-shaped stitched quilting inspired by the equestrian world Gabrielle Chanel so loved. What’s more? Behind each of these bag collections lies an interesting tale and element of its allure.
Here, we highlight five things to know about each design.
The Gabrielle
1. First presented during the Spring Summer 2017 Ready-to-Wear show, the Gabrielle bag design draws from the futuristic spirit of the season’s collection, whereby Karl Lagerfeld took inspiration from the shape of virtual reality goggles and binocular cases that men wore at the racetrack.
2. Fitted on a rigid thermoformed base, the body of Chanel’s Gabrielle is extremely light and ultra-supple. Staying true to the founder’s comfort aesthetic, it perfectly follows the shape of the silhouette.
Chanel’s Gabrielle Hobo Bag in Navy Blue
3. The bag comes with an adjustable strap that is twinned with a double silver- and gold-tone metal chain interwoven with leather, allowing the bag to be worn in three different ways: straight over the shoulder, across the body or slung over the shoulder backpack-style.
4. Its contrasting structure also keeps it upright when not being worn, thereby allowing women to put it down and find their belongings within in an instant.
5. Like the iconic 2.55 flap bag, the Gabrielle is rendered in aged quilted calfskin against a background of smooth calfskin and available in its hobo shape in several sizes and lined with a garnet fabric originally seen in the first bags made by Gabrielle Chanel.
