I did an awful job of restarting this series “monthly” series last July! #BadBlogger One of the things that I’m practicing this 2019 year, in addition to my word SIMPLIFY, is keeping promises to myself.
Why is it that we can make all the effort to keep promises to our children, friends, and significant others, but break a promise to ourselves in no time? It keeps us from being the best version of ourselves. If you had a friend who made plans and always backed out or made excuses when the time came, then wouldn’t you stop believing your friend? See! That’s what I mean. Let’s keep promises to ourselves, friends.
Okay, I went off on a tangent there. I finished reading Girl, Stop Apologizing and it’s life changing! I’m going to read it again! Now, let’s get back to the bag!
I love sharing little bits of history about the brand/bag! The Chanel flap was introduced in February of 1955 when Coco Chanel realized the working woman needed to be hands-free (in comparison to the top handle bag). She created the double chain which makes the bag versatile, and it can be worn over the shoulder
SIZE and PRICING
This is a vintage Chanel Maxi Flap in silver metallic leather with gold hardware. Current retail cost for a Chanel Classic Maxi Flap is $6,700 (for a new bag). I purchased this vintage bag from The Real Real for a birthday present to myself.
It is a large sized single flap bag with one patch pocket (on the back). When opened, there is a matching silver leather interior with two pockets – an envelope pocket and large zip pocket.
The dimension is approximately 13” W x 9.25″ H x 3.75” D. For reference, I am 5’4″ {but usually wearing heels}. This size fits EVERYTHING which is lovely!
The strap is a convertible double chain-link and leather shoulder strap which makes it a 21″ drop from top of the handle to the top of the bag (when worn long) and 12″ drop when doubled. I am able to carry it on the shoulder or switch it to cross body without any issues. Just keep in mind that it’s a larger bag to carry cross-body.
AESTHETICS and CONSTRUCTION
Metallic bags have been making a comeback, and I was so happy to spot this bag on The Real Real. I love that it’s a combination of silver and gold (like my Gucci slides) so it can be worn with either and looks wonderful with mixed metals.
The bag is nicely constructed and very lightweight with the leather being soft and supple which is fantastic for an older bag. Based on the serial number, this bag is from the late 90s making it approximately 20 years old. The previous owner took very good care of it or didn’t use it much.
As mentioned in previous posts, I tend NOT to baby my bags. However, I’ve been very careful with this one. When wearing cross-body (rarely), I am very conscious of color transfer from jeans since this has happened to me with a previous metallic leather bag that I owned. Also, I own an older version of this bag so I can see what happens with a lot of wear and tear.
FUNCTIONALITY
I’ve been reaching for this bag regularly because it’s so easy to wear and fits EVERYTHING! The single flap makes it easy to open and close and allows for very easy access in and out of the bag.
My cell phone, long wallet, make up bag (large), and sunglasses w/case fit easily in it with room to spare. It’s awesome!
Again, this is a light-weight bag. Surprisingly, it doesn’t get too heavy even with everything in it which is why it’s been my favorite lately.
SOS RATING
THREE AND THREE-QUARTERS GOLD STARS {out of five}! I took a star off because of the price and the durability of the metallic leather. If this bag was a couple of thousand dollars less expensive, then it would be a five star! LOL! Also, I’ve seen how this bag can age if not taken care of properly so that gave it a less rating.
What are your thoughts on a Chanel Maxi Bag?
If you have any questions about the bag, then let me know in the comments and I’ll do my best to help! If you have a specific request for the next “What’s in my Bag?!“, then please let me know too!
P.S. You can read about tips to shop pre-owned vintage in THIS POST HERE!
Hope your week is going well! Today is my day off, and I’ve got a school tour to attend! Also, I had such a wonderful time in California for the CABI mid-season meeting. They asked me to be on a panel with Alison of Wardrobe Oxygen and Sarah of Darling Media. We chatted about leveraging social media/digital technology to build community. It was such a magnificent trip, and I was able to reconnect and make so many connections with other amazing women!!
♥︎ ♥︎ STAY GLAM, DO GOOD ♥︎ ♥︎
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