Chanel has unveiled an exciting addition to its Spring-Summer 2025 Pre-Collection – new Mini Flap Bags in caviar leather. Already generating significant buzz among handbag enthusiasts, this seasonal release blends signature Chanel design elements with updated features, making it one of the most anticipated bags of the season.
Fans of Chanel’s iconic Mini Classic Handbag will recall the discontinuation of the caviar leather version in 2018, a decision that left many disappointed. Since then, the Classic Mini has only been offered in lambskin or fabrics like tweed, with the exception of the Mini Flap with Top Handle which launched in 2021. This makes the introduction of the new Mini Flap Bag in grained calfskin particularly exciting, as it signals a return to the popular leather.
Read also: Here’s a First Look at the Classic Mini with Handle
This design carries forward the hallmarks of the Mini Classic Handbag — like the signature CC turn-lock closure, chain shoulder strap, and internal slip pocket — while introducing fresh details that set it apart.
The most notable new design feature of this seasonal bag is the chain detailing. Unlike the Classic Mini Flap, which features a single, fixed shoulder strap, this new bag includes two chains – a top handle adorned with CC emblems and a detachable shoulder chain. This new design allows the bag to be worn crossbody, on the shoulder, or carried by hand, offering more versatility for different styling preferences. While some may adore the look of the top handle chain, others may find themselves wishing it were detachable for a more streamlined appearance.
Another update is the redesigned back pocket. Where the Mini Classic featured a downsized “Mona Lisa smile” pocket, the new Mini Flap Bag opts for a full-length pocket, adding more external storage space. The inclusion of edge stitching – a hallmark of earlier caviar leather Classic Mini Flap bags – further enhances its appeal.
Looking inside the bag, the new style both mimics and differs from the original Classic Mini Flap. Offering a spacious interior with an open slip pocket like the Classic, the new Mini Flap lining is partially fabric and partially leather.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Image courtesy: Chanel
The new Mini Flap Bag is available in two sizes – the Mini Flap Bag and the Small Flap Bag – each offering a rectangular silhouette that can accommodate a smartphone. Keep in mind only the larger of the two will be able to handle an iPhone Pro Max.
The Mini Flap Bag measures 5.1 x 7.1 x 2.2 inches, which is comparable to the Mini Square Classic Handbag at 5.3 x 6.7 x 3.1 inches.
Comparison of the new mini bag sizes.
| Bag Style | Measurements (inches) | Measurements (cm) |
| New Mini Flap Bag | 5.1 x 7.1 x 2.2 | 12.9 x 18 x 5.5 |
| Rectangular Mini Classic Handbag | 5.1 x 7.9 x 2.4 | 12.9 x 20 x 6 |
| Mini Square Classic Handbag | 5.3 x 6.7 x 3.1 | 13.4 x 17 x 7.8 |
| New Small Flap Bag | 5.5 x 8.7 x 2.6 | 13.9 x 22 x 6.7 |
| Small Classic Handbag | 5.7 x 9.1 x 2.4 | 14.5 x 23 x 6 |
For those who prefer a bit more room, Chanel introduces the new Small Flap Bag (considered a mini and part of this collection). This bag measures 5.5 x 8.7 x 2.6 inches, placing it sizewise between the Rectangular Mini Classic Bag and the Small Classic Handbag. The Small Flap is slightly smaller than the Small Classic Handbag, which measures 5.7 x 9.1 x 2.4 inches, and it is slightly larger than the Rectangular Mini Classic Bag, which measures 4.7 x 7.9 x 2.4 inches.
The new small flap versus the classic square mini. Image courtesy: Red
As Chanel’s prices continue to rise, collectors have increasingly scrutinized the value of new releases. For those seeking a caviar Chanel bag, the Mini Flap Bag retails for $5,700 – $500 more than the Classic lambskin Mini Flap.
However, the Small Flap Bag offers great savings when compared to the Classic Handbag. At $6,100, it is significantly less expensive than the Small Classic Flap, which now retails for $10,400. At nearly half the price, the new Mini Flap Bag provides Chanel style at a (relatively) more affordable level.
For those who dream of adding a Chanel Classic Flap to their collection but are deterred by its steep price point, this seasonal alternative provides an appealing compromise.
Read also: Chanel May Increase Prices Again in 2024 Despite Record-Level Revenues
Crafted exclusively in grained caviar leather, the new Mini Flap Bag comes in a range of classic and seasonal colorways. Alongside timeless shades such as Black, Dark Beige, White, and Gray, there are softer seasonal tones like Light Pink, Navy, and Light Orange, all paired with gold-tone hardware.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Whether this new Mini Flap Bag remains a seasonal treasure or earns a permanent spot in Chanel’s collection remains to be seen. However, it is already clear that this bag is set to become a coveted item among Chanel enthusiasts.
What do you think of the new Mini Flap Bag? Will it find its way into your collection? Let us know your thoughts.
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Updated: January 21st, 2025
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