Types

The most popular style of Chanel bag is the Chanel Classic Flap Bag, the original bag designed by Coco Chanel in 1955. It is available in caviar leather or lambskin. It comes in three sizes. For a bag in caviar leather, the prices range from around $1,500 for a small, $1,600 for a medium, and $1,700 for a jumbo. For all sizes, you will pay about $100 more for a lambskin bag.

Other Types

The other most popular style of Chanel Bag is the Chanel Reissue 2.55, which Chanel chief designer Karl Lagerfeld designed in 2005 to commemorate the 50th anniverary of the Chanel Classic Flap Bag. It is made from a different type of leather from the caviar leather of the original. It comes in five sizes, and the prices range from around $1,900 for a Baby, around $2,000 for a small, and around $2,100 for a medium. A large bag costs about $2,500, and extra large or jumbo around $3,500.

Vintage Types

Vintage Chanel bags are also available. These are generally more expensive, since they are styles that are no longer manufactured and may be quite rare. There are many different vintage styles available in stores and on specialty online retailers. A vintage Chanel tassel bag costs around $3,300, while a vintage Chanel Le Train canvas tote bag may cost $2,400.

Warning

While it is possible to buy new or used Chanel bags on sites like eBay, it is not recommended, because their authenticity cannot be verified. Always buy Chanel bags from Chanel stores, or authorized dealers such as Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Avenue.

Fun Fact

Coco Chanel founded the iconic Chanel handbag line in Paris in 1955. Since she grew up in a convent, she designed the double chain shoulder strap on her Chanel Classic Flap Bag to resemble the keys hanging down from the habits of the nuns who took care of her.

Source:

PurseBlog.com: Chanel Classic Flap Bag vs. Reissue 2.55

ShopBop.com: "Chanel Handbag"

Resource:

Chanel Official Site