By @ariella_mom
Chanel, Chanel, Chanel . . . What am I to do with you? It’s like a never ending tale of ambivalence . . . In love, no more, in love, never again, and so it goes on… With the recent increase in prices, I was done! At least with handbags. I must admit, I still love select pieces of the RTW, though I miss Karl Lagerfeld’s designs . . .
One morning, I awakened to see communication from a friend about the mini 22. I opened my IG to see PurseBop’s write ups about that little beauty. This was followed by @EL4BZ’s stories on her new reissue 2.55 and mini Classic Flap. All of this Chanel “talk” got me thinking about the Classic Flap versus Coco’s original, the 2.55, particularly in the mini size.
Unlike many Chanel buyers, I prefer the 2.55. Perhaps because of my years with Chanel, I am drawn to the mademoiselle lock and the low key profile. Most of my friends, however, prefer the Classic Flap, calling it the more modern one. That so-called “classic” was actually created by Lagerfeld rather than Coco.
Recently, I purchased both – the beige 2.55 mini (22P) and the Rose mini CF (22S). Since I ordered these bags before the 2023 price increase, Chanel honored the original price of $4,400. Lesson learned: ALWAYS check your tag if it is on the bag.
Read related : Breaking News: Global Chanel Price Increase 2023
The bags are total cuties and I probably will not purchase anymore at the new prices. Chanel price hikes are too frequent and significant when compared to Hermès, Dior, and other luxury brands. The quality is fine, but not as it was years ago.
At PurseBop’s request, below is my comparison of the Rose Mini Classic Flap from 22S in lambskin and the Beige 2.55 from 22P in aged calfskin. Although last year’s models, Chanel minis always stand the test of time . . . and continue to be sold at boutiques. That is, if they haven’t already flown out the door!
Color and Style
Although preference for 2.55 or Classic minis does not depend upon color, for anyone seeking beige hues, these are great options. Both the 22P beige and the 22S rose are relatively new seasonal colors with neutral undertones.
But that doesn’t mean they are the same. The beige (on the calfskin 2.55) appears “fleshy” – without yellow or orange undertones. On the other hand, the caviar rose (different color code and on lambskin) hints of those hues. It’s versatile and can be easily worn with so much. Consider it a muted pink color with nude undertones.
Stylewise, of course, even in mini size, the classic flap and 2.55 differ. The Mini Classic Flap is simple with a chain that cannot be adjusted. On the other hand, the Mini 2.55 has a chain that can be doubled. As is the case with larger sizes, the actual straps differ. The Classic Flap chain is the traditional chain interlaced with leather while the 2.55 has an aged gold chain.
Both bags have a back pocket which I love. From the front, they look largely similar except for the lock. However, the side view reveals a crease in the middle of the 2.55 and a bottom view reveals a curved bottom on the 2.55.
Size and Capacity
Although both bags claim to be the same size, my measurements show the 2.55 to be slightly larger, reflected in its capacity. Each bag measures 20 cm across the bottom. Interestingly, despite sharing that dimension with the Hermès Mini Kelly (aka Kelly 20), the Chanels’ shape allows them to hold more.
The width of my Classic Flap mini is 5.75 cm, shy of 6 cm and the 2.55 is 6.75. A bigger difference is in height. The 2.55 stands taller with a height of 13 cm, as compared to the mini Classic Flap at 11 cm.
When it comes to filling the bags, what seem to be small differences in size, amount to a big variance in capacity. No doubt, my 2.55 mini holds more. However, the chain drop on the mini Classic Flap is longer: 56cm versus 53.5 cm on the 2.55.
Personal Opinion and Analysis
I love both bags and find that they both have great capacity for a small bag that works day or evening. While the 2.55 packs a punch without being overfilled (see photo) the mini Classic Flap holds enough. The back pocket on both is a real bonus, and part of Chanel style.
For me (I am petite) the option of a double strap on the 2.55 (shoulder wear) and the shorter drop which fits me better cross body is HUGE. Upon reflection, that’s likely part of my reasoning in preferring re-issues, as well as the greater capacity.
Admittedly these days the mini Classic Flap generally offers a wider array of color options. However, over the years, I have purchased all kinds of calfskin (not just aged, but also chevron and quilted, metallic and patent) in the 2.55 style.
On the other hand, the mini Classic Flap has its advantages. The overall shape is more attractive and the bag stands on its own much better. One disadvantage of the 2.55 is that the curve on the bottom makes it difficult for the bag to stand on the table.
If Chanel made the mini Classic Flap with four grommets, I would forgive the minor capacity loss, and lack of durability of lamb— and actually prefer it! But until I can make that Chanel special order (as if), my vote remains with the 2.55.
Tell us, which do you prefer: Classic or 2.55? Or are you choosing your Chanel based on color and leather?
Love, PurseBop
XO
Updated: June 7th, 2023
Comments
1 Responses to “Battle of the Chanel Mini Bags: 2.55 versus Classic Flap”
Thanks for the detail comparison of 2.55 and classic flap and it’s very insightful. I own mostly the classic flap in various sizes : mini , small and medium , Chanel 19 and coco handle
The reason i m holding back on the reissue is becoz they look too plain and I have seen too many replicas and dupes looking like the reissue.
However, there is one season of the reissue which definitely appeals to me which is the 2018 when the reissue came with Chanel’s lucky charm : coromondel, dove, lion, telephone, 4 leave clover, crest, chanel no.5.
I only recently collected Chanel so have missed that model completely and ever since have been looking out for the resale market for these but they are either too expensive or run out very quickly.
Wish Chanel can repeat this one again and make the reissue more interesting and jazz up the look