“Fashion changes, but style endures.” Coco Chanel was absolutely right when she said that. As someone who focused on the classic and timeless and less on passing trends, my big purchase decisions are always thoughtful. Buying a Chanel bag is a major investment from a financial standpoint. But, there are endless outfit possibilities depending on which bag style you decide to purchase. And, it’s one of the only designer handbags that actually increases in value over time (how I wish I bought a Chanel Classic Flap Bag a decade ago). In today’s post, I’m rounding up some of my favorite Chanel Bag outfit ideas for every season and occasion.
Chanel bags have been popular for more than 50 years now, rising from a need for function over fashion, if you can believe it. The story goes that Coco Chanel decided to put straps on her handbag and things were simply never the same for women (hello hands free!). In February of 1955 (hence the name of the iconic 2.55 bag), she debuted a new shoulder bag and over the years the brand has become synonymous with luxury goods. But, unlike other investment purchases, the price per wear with a Chanel bag shouldn’t be a concern. Whether you’re going casual or dressing up, or if it’s winter, fall or spring – there are endless ways to style your Chanel bag.
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Chanel Bag Outfit Ideas
Now, I should start by saying that I’m not one of those girls that buys a bag and doesn’t wear it. If I put my hard-earned money into a purchase, I plan to use it! That’s why you’ll see me styling my Chanel’s all throughout the year with various outfits. Honestly, putting together a list of Chanel bag outfit ideas is easy because I wear mine all the time.
Chanel 2.55 vs Classic Flap Bag
First things first – what bag to purchase? The key differences in the 2.55 versus the classic flap are the lock and the chain. Both bags may have the quilting design and newer styles feature the chevron print. But, the 2.55 bag will have the metal chain and the classic flap will have the leather-woven chain strap. It wasn’t until 2005 that Karl Lagerfeld changed the Mademoiselle lock on the 2.55 and introduced the interlocking-CC’s that it became the new normal for Chanel bags. Both bags are beautiful in my opinion! The bag you’ll see me carry throughout here is actually the Chanel fashion bag, a slight variation of the Classic flap.
Chanel 19 Bag
As the name suggests, the Chanel 19 bag was introduced in 2019. It was the last design released by Karl Lagerfeld before his passing and has since become a staple in their collection.
Chanel Coco Top Handle Bag
Top handle bags became quite popular back in 2015 and coincidentally Chanel released the Coco Top Handle bag during that time.
You may notice that I didn’t mention the Chanel Boy bags. While overwhelmingly popular, I didn’t own one until recently. It’s now become one of the bags I reach for regularly because it’s the mini size and the most perfect caramel color!
Casual Outfits
So, let’s start with the obvious day-to-day wear when it comes to Chanel bag outfit ideas. For a casual outfit, you can’t go wrong with a sweatshirt (anything from Anine Bing is fine, but I love this one) and faux leather leggings like you see above. Sneakers or combat boots complete the look. Then, for a more feminine look you can wear a neutral cardigan and cute pair of booties. Or, a simple pair of jeans and white tee with a utility jacket could be chic as well. Remember that your Chanel bag doesn’t have to be worn only at night. Let it see the light of day!
Workwear Outfits
You’ll be pleased to know that Chanel fashion also works for the office. When paired with a classic blazer and pair of crisp denim or slacks, a Chanel bag is the perfect accessory. They also wear well with more feminine looks. I carry my Chanel fashion bag crossbody with dresses all the time. Then, throw your blazer over your shoulders for an elevated look with strappy sandals.
Winter Outfits
Personally I love dressing for cold weather. So, putting together winter outfits with my Chanel bags is easy. The chain straps on most of their bags are pretty long. So, you can easily get them over jackets and fluffy winter coats. I’m often reaching for my faux leather leggings this time of year and pairing them with longer tunic length sweaters like this one by Free People (comes in a bunch of colors). The moto style and shearling details on this jacket are the perfect contract to the bag.
Of course, a simple jeans and cozy sweater are a go-to of mine for winter style. And, don’t be afraid to mix designers! I will often wear my Gucci belt with my Chanel bag.
Fall Outfits
Fall fashion is my favorite and it’s the perfect time to mix some new fashion trends in your wardrobe with the timeless look of your Chanel bag. My bag has a suede finish, but for fall I also love the idea of a velvet details like this one has.
In fall you’ll typically see me wear a bit more street style outfits (like at NYFW here and here). Women’s fashion in fall is just more fun! So, don’t be afraid to break out some metallic pops like I did in this gold cami. Then, the rest of your outfit can be more tame.
Spring and Summer Outfits
Lastly, your spring and summer outfits aren’t complete without your Chanel bag. Since my Chanel 19 is the dark beige color (similar here), it goes with nearly everything I wear in these warmer months. My bag gets worn with both cute mini and midi dresses alike and either sneakers or flats the most this time of year.
Just a few years ago I carried my Coco Top Handle bag for an entire year, including all over Italy! So, you’ll see me wearing it in many posts like this one.
A Chanel Bag as an Investment
If you’ve recently purchased your first Chanel bag or are considering getting one, hopefully this has put your mind at ease that there are countless ways to style them. Consider this post your year-round guide to Chanel bag outfit ideas! Also, since they only continue to rise in price, they’re a decent investment. What was once sold at $200 now retails for nearly $7,000!
My recommendation is to get a more neutral color to ensure you get the price per wear you’re expecting. Plus, if you decide to resell in the future you should have an easier time doing so.
