As a vintage Chanel lover, I couldn’t resist the allure of the Chanel mini rectangular bags. I always wanted the vintage version—the new ones are cute, but they don’t make them like they used to. The 24k gold-plated hardware always gets me, but it’s also the lambskin leather. There’s just something about these bags that elevates your look in an effortlessly edgy, chic way.
Why did I choose it? It was an easy decision. My love for Chanel flap bags meant this one had to be included in my collection. Beyond that, I adore its shape, size, and the fact that I can wear it crossbody without any issues.
Features: For all the Chanel crossbody fans who also love mini bags, this is it! The strap is long enough to wear crossbody, and despite being a mini bag, it holds a lot. I can even fit my iPhone 15 Plus in it. It also has a zipped compartment inside, giving you an idea of its dimensions. Like any vintage bag, its hardware is plated with 24k gold, and it’s made from lambskin leather, giving it a luxurious, buttery-soft feel. The bag is black with a burgundy interior, typical of classic Chanel flap bags, which can also be seen in the Mona Lisa pocket.
Where did I buy it? I bought it from Vinted many years ago. At that time, they didn’t offer the authentication service they do now, so it was a big risk. However, I’ve gained a lot of expertise in building my own vintage Chanel collection, and the bag was in amazing condition at a good price. I pulled the trigger right away and do not regret my decision at all. It’s one of my favorite and most-used bags in my collection.
Cons: The only con might be that this bag isn’t very versatile. It’s designed to be worn over the shoulder or crossbody. Some people adjust the strap to make it shorter, but I personally don’t like doing that because the chain strap is quite heavy and bulky. Adjusting it would reduce the space for my essentials. Additionally, the leather is delicate, so you need to be careful to avoid scratches.
Would I purchase it again? Yes, absolutely. In fact, I did buy the same bag a few years later in red, which is more like coral. I wouldn’t hesitate to buy another one if I found it in a different color.
Final advice: If you’re hunting for one of these bags, be patient. Don’t get desperate; research extensively. Use platforms like Vestiaire Collective, eBay, or Vinted, which offer authentication services to avoid scams. Finally, enjoy the process!
