We love vintage shopping because it's our chance to find highly coveted items from seasons or decades past. Maybe you couldn't afford it at the time, maybe you're committed to shopping sustainably by purchasing secondhand, or maybe you just love the thrill of the chase, but whatever your reason, shopping designer pieces [1] vintage is a great way to score the coolest items possible. One of our favourite items to shop secondhand is bags, and is there any wonder Chanel is our top choice?
Ahead, shop 12 of our favourite vintage Chanel bags. Just because they're secondhand, doesn't make them cheap by any means; these are still four figure bags. But, if you feel like treating yourself, it's a great investment; so long as you keep your bags in relatively good condition, they'll only appreciate in value. Some are classic bags [2], and some are more unique, but they're all covetable. Keep on reading to shop our top picks!
A Colourful Bag: Chanel Pre-Owned 2009-2010 CC Wild Stitch Shoulder Bag
As much as we love classic black, when Chanel does colours, they're stunning. This soft muted green is so wearable, and we love the size and shape of this Chanel Pre-Owned 2009-2010 CC Wild Stitch Shoulder Bag [3] ($2,368). It's the perfect shoulder bag.
A Printed Bag: Chanel Pre-Owned 2004-2005 Camélia-patterned Tote Bag
The camelia flower is a Chanel signature, so this Chanel Pre-Owned 2004-2005 Camélia-patterned Tote Bag [4] ($1,964) is a true collector's item. We also love the thick chains, which is something you don't often see in bags today.
A Tweed Bag: Chanel Pre-Owned 2005–2006 Tweed Classic Flap Shoulder Bag
Another Chanel signature? Tweed bags. This Chanel Pre-Owned 2005–2006 Tweed Classic Flap Shoulder Bag [5] ($4,370) is so ladylike, and the white tweed is iconic. You'll never want to take it off.
A Logo Backpack: Chanel Backpack
If you like a more practical silhouette, go with a backpack. This logo Chanel Backpack [6] ($3,950) is so unique, and we love the grey colorway. This is a serious upgrade from your everyday carryall.
A Tote Bag: Chanel Grand Timeless Tote
Chanel is better known for flap bags, but the totes are still spectacular. We like this Chanel Grand Timeless Tote [7] ($5,150) because it's not massive, just big enough to fit in all your essentials. Plus, it's got a zip top, so everything will stay secure.
A Top Handle Bag: Chanel Quilted Satchel
This Chanel Quilted Satchel [8] ($5,150) is so elegant and classic. The top handle means business, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap, which is very unique for Chanel bags.
A Camera Bag: Chanel Vintage Quilted Camera Case
The camera bag silhouette is one of the most versatile bag styles, and you really can take this Chanel Vintage Quilted Camera Case [9] ($3,675) anywhere. It can go from day to night easily, and the double chain straps are a brand signature. It also has red interior, which adds a little something extra.
A Shoulder Bag: Chanel Beige Caviar Timeless Bag
The shoulder bag silhouette is everywhere right now, and we're obsessed with this Chanel Beige Caviar Timeless Bag [10] ($4,500). It really is timeless, and the caviar leather is more durable than traditional lambskin. This is a serious find, so grab it while you can!
A Heart Bag: Chanel CC in Love Heart Clutch with Chain
How adorable is this Chanel CC in Love Heart Clutch with Chain [11] ($6,635)? This is why we love shopping secondhand, because these are the types of bags you can't just walk into a store and purchase. It's a real rarity to find a heart shaped Chanel bag, and though it's small, it's a serious collectors item, and a perfect going out bag.
An Irridescent Bag: Chanel Classic Single Flap Bag
There are people who love black bags, and while we don't disagree, sometimes with Chanel you have to go a little out of the box. This irridescent Chanel Classic Single Flap Bag [12] ($6,040) is as cool as it gets. If you're having a Y2K fashion moment, this is a showstopper, and a supremely rare find. We want it for ourselves.
A Black Bag: Chanel Natural Beauty Flap Bag
If you're looking for a classic flap bag, this Chanel Natural Beauty Flap Bag [13] ($2,890) is a great choice. It's still black Chanel, but it's not the Classic or 2.55 bag, which would be three to five times the price. Honestly, we haven't seen this bag style before, and we might prefer the more low-key look.
A Colorblocked Backpack: Chanel Cuba Urban Spirit Backpack
There's something about this Chanel Cuba Urban Spirit Backpack [14] ($4,315) that's so special. It's a classic black backpack, with pops of colour throughout, and is a unique piece you can use all the time.