Chanel’s style is synonymous with timeless elegance, and its fabric choices play a crucial role in defining the maison’s distinctive aesthetic.
From tweed to silk, Chanel’s textiles reflect the brand’s dedication to creativity while maintaining its heritage and commitment to craftsmanship.
The guide dives into the other signature fabrics used in creating Chanel’s handbags.
Iconic Chanel Fabrics
1. Tweed
Perhaps no fabric is more synonymous with Chanel than tweed. Introduced in the 1920s, tweed became the cornerstone of Chanel's jackets and suits, often crafted in bold colors, intricate patterns, and embellished with signature details.
The textured fabric has since been reimagined across collections, appearing in bags, shoes, and even jewelry.
2. Bouclé
Bouclé, a close cousin to tweed, is another signature Chanel material. Its looped yarn texture adds depth and dimension, making it a favorite for the brand’s timeless jackets and coats.
3. Jersey
Coco Chanel introduced jersey to women’s fashion, making it a symbol of relaxed sophistication. The fabric’s versatility and stretch offered comfort without sacrificing elegance, setting a precedent for modern luxury.
4. Canvas
Canvas is most commonly used on Chanel’s more functional bags, such as the Deauville Tote Bag. This is a practical option and generally one of the more affordable fabrics.
5. Denim
Although not a particularly commonly used fabric in the Chanel world, you will occasionally find limited-edition denim bags, often incorporated with embroidery detailing.
6. Velvet
Not a frequently used fabric for Chanel handbags but the Classic Flap Bag and the Boy Bag have been released in velvet iterations over the years. This fabric adds a decadent aesthetic to the brand’s structured bags.
7. Plexi & PVC
Plexi and PVC show up primarily in Chanel’s Spring/Summer collections, usually in colorful and pastel hues. These bags tend to be limited-edition styles.
How To Choose The Right Chanel Fabric
A lot of this decision will be based on what look you prefer. If you like a laid-back cool aesthetic then something like denim or canvas might be what you lean towards. If you prefer something more traditional and elegant, then tweed may be calling your name.
Some fabrics are harder to wear than others and less versatile. For example, the PVC and plexi options tend to be more stand-out pieces if you like an eclectic look. If you prefer classic then something like velvet might appeal.
In terms of looking after your Chanel bag, the same rule applies to all of these. A dyed color bag may deposit color onto your clothing if either the bag or your clothing gets wet. And, you have to watch out for stains no matter what fabric bag you own. So, regarding upkeep, there are no major distinctions between these options.
What To Consider When Buying A Chanel Bag?
Model: Even if you have your heart set on a Chanel Flap Bag, it is certainly worth considering all of the brand's offerings. This could include the 2.55 Flap, the Boy Bag, or the Chanel 19 Flap.
Material/Fabric: If you are deciding between different leathers, in a previous dedicated guide, we tackled the subject of Chanel leathers. Here, you can see the difference between caviar leather, patent leather, lambskin leather, and more.
Hardware: Sometimes people choose to match the hardware on their bag to the tone of the jewelry they wear. Alternatively, check out myGemma's guide to Chanel hardware.
Fastenings: myGemma has a dedicated post about Chanel fastenings and closures, so you can determine whether you have a preference.
Where To Buy A Chanel Bag?
You can buy directly from the source, which in this case would be a Chanel boutique. However, you may not always have access to what you are looking for.
Another option is to shop the resale market, where you can see the entire collection of items available to you. Resale is usually by far the most affordable way to shop luxury and stretch your budget.
A primary advantage of the resale market is having access to items that are no longer available anywhere else. This can include rare items and limited-edition pieces.
These websites, such as myGemma, have a number of different brands. Simply narrow down your search by typing into the search bar the brand name or specific model you are looking for. If you would rather browse, go onto a collection page or brand page.
myGemma has a robust in-house authentication process which we swear by. We guarantee authenticity or your money back.
How To Sell Chanel Online
If you’re looking to part with a Chanel piece, myGemma makes the process seamless. With a quick online form and fast payouts, you can confidently sell your Chanel items to myGemma.
There is no middleman involved and there are no hidden fees. The price quote is the amount you will receive. Often payments are made in as little as 24 hours after receiving your price quote.
Whether you choose to trade in, buy, or sell with myGemma, you are contributing positively towards a circular economy. Check out myGemma's reviews to hear what previous customers think.
