Saturday, September 8, 2012

Passé. Chanel 2.55

IMAGE: PUREGREENMAG.COM



The Chanel 2.55 is arguably the most recognizable and stylish purse to this day. Mademoiselle Chanel created something not only timeless, but classic. This purse has probably been produced, reproduced, and replicated a million times over the past fifty-seven years. In 1954, Chanel made a mega comeback on the fashion scene and in February of 1955 (2.55), she debuted one incredible bag. Her inspiration for the signature chain and leather straps came from key chains she had seen at the convent where she grew up. As for the iconic quilted pattern the inspiration is behind it is believed to come from the pattern seen on horse jockey’s jackets.
IMAGE: CHANEL.COM

Coco’s original Chanel 2.55 is recognizable for the “the Mademoiselle lock”, and also the red interior lining.  In 1983, Karl Lagerfeld took over Chanel and what is known as the “Classic Flap” was issued. The Classic Flap came in a variety of sizes, fabrics, and colors, but is most recognizable for the interlocking C’s on the lock. On the Chanel 2.55’s 50th birthday in 2005, Karl Lagerfeld gave us the “Reissue 2.55” to commemorate the original. The Reissue features the classic Mademoiselle lock.
I’m sure so many women out there appreciate the continuity of a bag like this as much as I do. Today a Chanel 2.55 will run anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 depending on if it’s new or vintage. You may think that is outrageous for a handbag, but if it will last another half a century and continues to be a classic, I say it’s worth every penny.

IMAGE: CHANEL.COM

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