What do you get when you cross a Chanel classic CC flap with a Hermès Kelly? Some say…it’s the Chanel Coco Handle, sometimes called the Flap Bag With Handle. This style stands out in many Chanel collections. The latest Fall-Winter 2020/21 collection is no different.
Read: Chanel’s Fall-Winter 2020/21 Collection is Finally Here
Here’s what you need to know about this popular model.
A Guide to the Coco Handle
Also known as the ‘Flap Bag with Handle.’ Chanel released this bag in 2015. The style received mixed reviews at the time. Critics posited that it was too similar to other styles from the House of Chanel.
(Read: On Trend: The Chanel “Trendy CC” Bag Reference Guide).
The Coco Handle also evoked comparisons to the Hermes Kelly Bag. Read:Hermes Kelly Dupe?
However, the Chanel Coco Handle has stood the test of time and is a fond favorite among many Chanel enthusiasts.
Here are some reasons why:
Reasons to Buy
Quintessentially Chanel
The Coco Handle bag features the Chanel codes we know and love:
• The Diamond Quilting (chevron quilting styles are available in some seasons) on the bag is a signature we can spot from a mile away
• The conspicuous ‘Flap’ is reminiscent of the Classic Flap Bag that is a staple for many
• The interlocking ‘CC’ logo with the twist clasp is also a familiar feature we are accustomed to operating
• The Chain Strap and Back Flap essential to many Chanel styles
Uniquely Distinctive
Despite the similarities to the Chanel Flap Bag, the Coco Handle stands apart from this and other popular Chanel models. And is perhaps the main reason behind it being unofficially renamed as the ‘Coco Handle’! The top ‘handle’ is its most distinctive feature. Structured and comfortably sized, it stands tall even when put down. The handle, combined with the trapezoid shape, bestows a modern touch to an otherwise classic style.
Versatile
Depending on the size you choose, the bag can find function as a day, an evening, or a day-to-night bag. The medium and large flap bag in particular can see you through your day. All sizes come with a long chain to sling and a top handle to tote. Do note that the chain strap is now detachable feature across all sizes and models (the initial models of the bag had a fixed chain strap).
Price Point
Considering the bag’s positioning as a Classic Flap Bag with Handle, the prices of the Coco Handle are significantly lower than the Classic Flap Bags. A 35-40 per cent price difference, especially given the current price increases, is one of the reasons this bag is a tempting option!
Is It Worth It?
For many fans, it’s a vehement ‘Yes’ ! Whether you are new to Chanel or an avid collector, the option to buy a Classic Flap (with or without handles) at these prices is worth a serious consideration.
Material
The Coco Handle can usually be found in the following leathers and fabrics:
Grained Calfskin – A great option for those looking for a more durable and scratch proof leather.
Smooth Lambskin – This material lends a sheen and overall luxurious look to the bag. Be careful not to scratch this more delicate leather.
Tweed – Season agnostic, Chanel plays around with various color and pattern combinations in tweed, collection after collection.
Velvet (Fall Winter 2020/21) – A fall/winter favorite, the latest collection has one in Black.
The hardware on the Coco Handle tends to be either gold-tone or lacquered metal. Both work beautifully on this style.
Sizes
The Coco Handle is available in 4 sizes:
Coco Handle Bag Style | Dimensions in inches (L X H X D) |
Mini Flap Bag with Handle | 5.1 X 7.5 X 3.5 |
Small Flap Bag with Top Handle | 5.5 X 9.4 X 3.9 |
Flap Bag with Handle | 7.1 X 11.4 X 4.7 |
Large Flap Bag with Top Handle | 8.7 X 13 X 4.7 |
.
Colors
Colors vary season to season. The options currently available for this style include black, hot pink and turquoise.
Prices
With multiple combinations of fabrics, leathers and hardware, the prices too vary. Below is a price list of the bags currently visible online and available in stores:
Mini Flap Bag With Handle | Prices in the US | Prices in the UK |
Grained Calfskin and Lacquered Metal | $3,700 | £3,120 |
Black Velvet | $5,300 | £4,680 |
Small Flap Bag With Top Handle | Prices in the US | Prices in the UK |
Tweed | $3,500 | £2,890 |
Grained Calfskin and Lacquered Metal | $3,900 | £3,300 |
Flap Bag With Top Handle | Prices in the US | Prices in the UK |
Grained Calfskin and Gold Tone Metal | $4,000 | £3,350 |
Grained Calfskin and Black Metal | $4,500 | £3,720 |
Large Flap Bag With Top Handle | Prices in the US | Prices in the UK |
Grained Calfskin and Gold Tone Metal | $4,300 | £3,580 |
While on the topic of prices, it may be pertinent to note that prices of Coco Handles are currently about 7% higher in the UK than in the United States. Knowing Chanel’s penchant for price harmonization, could there be an increase around the corner for the Coco Handle in the US?
Perhaps consider expediting a planned purchase to sooner rather than later… Just a thought.
Instagram Eye-Candy
Love PurseBop
XO
Updated: May 25th, 2021
Comments