A few weeks ago, I dished all about my recently Chanel purchase in Paris. For those who missed it, here’s the abridged version: I bought my first Chanel purse (the Classic Flap Bag) while I was roaming Champs-Elysées.
Before I decided on the Classic Flap Bag, I tried on multiple styles, from the Mini to the Large and Maxi. I even checked out the Wallet on a Chain version, along with a handful of Chanel’s latest and trendier releases. Though I ultimately decided on one of the brand’s oldest and most well known styles, I did learn quite a bit of useful information from my SA on Chanel bags overall.
[sc_ic_ad1]If you’re familiar with anything Chanel, you’re probably well aware on how some of the chains are abnormally long, especially for women who fall on the shorter size (5’5 and below). In fact, my SA discussed how the ideal height for many of Chanel’s bags are 5’6 to 5’8 and up, making the iconic gold or silver crossbody chains just the right length for optimal use. Unfortunately, for someone of my height (5’4), the straps are just too long.
Solution? Wrapping the straps below the flap. This might sound a little confusing, but try to visualize it: Take your Chanel (Wallet on a Chain included) and lift up the flap. Wrap the chain across each side under the flap. In other words, take the left side of the chain and line it under the flap until it reaches the right side. Do the same with the right toward the left. Clasp the bag shut and it’ll be anywhere from four to six inches shorter, depending on the chain. You’re basically looping the straps under the flap and doubling it. As for some of the larger Chanel Flap bags, pull the straps and tuck them inside the bag and simply shut it. Yep, it’s really that simple!
[sc_ic_ad2]Make note: This doesn’t work on all Chanel chain bags, including camera cases and some of the brand’s newer styles. The hack, either looping or tucking, is best used on the Classic flaps (any size).
If you happen to be tall enough where this isn’t an issue, I envy you! I’ve actually had a great deal of trouble in the last couple months in regards to finding camera bags (and crossbodies in general) that aren’t obnoxiously long (aka reaching my mid-thigh). I know this is a completely insignificant problem to have, but when you fall in love with a bag only to realize it’s too long, it stings. (OK… I’m well aware I’m being a little dramatic, but you know what I mean.)
this is a pretty horrible idea because anyone who has a chanel bag knows the strap digs into the leather and causes damage – sigh
if you want to reduce the size of a bag or woc you take a simple ribbon and tie it a few times inside
“Chanel” not “Channel”. 🙂
This! I tried doing the trick with my woc and the inner leather part that holds the chain warped. I just bought one of those metal clip things for bags and am praying that that will work.
This is common sense – not just an idea specific to Chanel bags. I have routinely done this with many bags.
I need a tip for a strap that’s only long enough to use as a shoulder bag 🙁
So do I!
How strange , I find my 2.55 chain short to be i
Used as body bag which I prefer to use as cross body. I’m 5’2 by the way. I tried the reissue camera I have the nylon block color which has linger strap and the leather has shorter strap both camera reissue.
What happens if you open the flap while wearing it cross-body?
Great point!!! Exactly what you think would happen – it unravels and you stand there like an idiot trying to reassemble it.
I say this from experience.
Nah the straps are for people who have long bodies. Doesn’t really matter your height. I’m 5’7 and these aren’t long enough. I like them 23″ at least and not many brands are that long. I just go for brands that offer what works for me. Pretty silly brands still in 2019 don’t have adjustable straps. Also, why not include a video?
Wow, groundbreaking.
I’m 5’5 and find most of the Chanel crossbody straps to be too short. I’m always excited when I find one that’s long enough.
I vastly prefer using these chain clips – no potential damage to the leather necessary!
No, no, NO!!!! I agree with other commentators that this is a terrible idea that will only damage the top sides of the flap. No disrespect to the writer of this piece, but there are many other ways to shorten chain straps. How can a website on luxury pieces allow for this to be posted????? Do your research – YouTube has plenty of videos on how to do this without damaging a piece!!!
Like others here have suggested, these are the two methods that I use, with NO damage to my astronomically overpriced shoulder candy:
1. Chanel Classic Flaps (or any flap) where chain can be pulled through grommets – pull through and tie with a hair tie, ribbon, velcro wire tie – whatever.
2. Other bags, such as the Business Affinity – Adjustable Metal Buckles for Chain Strap Bag Shorten Your Bag Length via amazon (google or search amazon for that search exact term).
Honestly, this post really angered me lol