About a year ago, I asked the PurseBlog community whether or not it still made sense to purchase a brand-new Chanel Classic Flap Bag, despite the frequent price increases and debate on quality. The post was met with a great deal of chatter, with many readers saying I should purchase pre-loved Chanel versus dropping $5,600 (or more!) on a flap at a boutique.
“You could invest half that amount on an iconic bag that’s not so ubiquitous, like a Goyard, Gabriela Hearst, Celine, or Louis Vuitton. Take the rest and save. You could almost put a down payment on a small property at the rate you save,” wrote one reader.
Another user said: “I wouldn’t. The pricing has gone WAY overboard and the quality seems to have more and more issues. You can do so much better with that amount of money.”
Unfortunately, I had to figure things out on my own. So a few months later, while on a trip to Paris with family, I used the money I had saved and purchased a new medium Classic Flap Bag for $5,600. That was almost a six percent increase from 2018’s price of $5,300. Keep in mind: Most savings plans don’t even increase that much in a single year. If that wasn’t bad enough, the bag cost just under $3,000 in 2010.
I know you’re probably wondering why I purchased it, especially with all the information and research I had on why it wasn’t a smart financial decision. All I can say is, when you’re on the hunt for a bag, sometimes nothing else matters. I don’t necessarily view my purchases as investments, so for me this was about adding one of my dream bags to my collection.
Months later, the worst part about this situation is I’ve been somewhat afraid to use the bag. After spending all of that money, I fear something terrible will happen to it, whether it be stolen or damaged. (It’s somewhat of an irrational feeling, I know, but I’m not alone in this sentiment. Other first-time Chanel purchasers have expressed similar feelings to me as well.)
“The price is OUTRAGEOUS. I am just not in a financial position to spend $5000+ on a handbag. What happens if it gets ruined or stolen? Or I drop it in the snow?” wrote a user on tPF.
In 2018, when Megs reported on an earlier Chanel price increase, she touched on the outrage and frustration from consumers, including many of our loyal forum members, who can’t quite understand why prices continue to rise so quickly and sharply, and more importantly, why the quality doesn’t match with the price increase. But as she pointed out, no matter how much people complain, it doesn’t seem to change Chanel’s thinking – and demand doesn’t seem to be slowing.
That’s clearly evidenced by this year’s looming price increase. With prices expected to rise anywhere from $200 to $600, depending on bag style and size, a handful of Chanel bags, including the Classic Flaps, will move into Hermes and Birkin territory. Though they’re not retailing for $8,000 to $10,000 (yet!), a Chanel Classic Flap in the Jumbo or Maxi size isn’t too far off.
At this point, I think if your heart is still set on Chanel (just like mine was), it makes sense to go the pre-loved route. Look for a Chanel in ‘great’ or ‘excellent’ condition, and make sure it includes the authenticity card, and maybe even the dust bag and original box. Look closely at the photos to make sure you really know what you’re purchasing (as many consignment and reseller websites don’t have great return policies). If you’re concerned, look to purchase a pre-loved Chanel on Fashionphile, as the site graces buyers with a 30-day return policy and a six-month buy-back program (which will give you a cash amount of around 70 percent of what you originally paid. Not a store credit!) Not only that, buying pre-loved takes the risk and fear out of actually using these bags, too.
“I think pre-loved is best, as far as Chanel, Hermès, and so on are concerned,” wrote a tPF user. “Compare the quality from before and nowadays, and it is true the quality used to be better. It is less expensive too, so for practical reasons I think it is the best way to go.”
I just bought a new BV Knot clutch for full price, new from the NYC flagship. I’d been hunting for a secondhand option for the better part of a year but the selection of Knot clutches on the various resale websites was very weak. It was a little painful to pay the full $2500 sticker price with tax, but I felt I’d done my due diligence in trying to find a used one.
For a Chanel flap, I would absolutely go with one of the consignment stores. I swung by the What Goes Around Comes Around store in Soho and they had a wonderful collection of vintage Chanel flaps in various sizes. These are true vintage bags from the 80s and 90s, with interesting/rare quilting patterns and gold-plated logo hardware. And they were in fantastic condition. Can’t say they were cheap by any means – the medium flap with chevron quilting that was singing to me was $4,000! But it was almost pristine despite being ~30 years old and felt so solid and high quality in my hands. If the Purseforum comments are right about declining quality in new bags, then the vintage option sounds best in every way!
I’m so afraid of getting a fake.
“singing to me” what an apt description and I know exactly how that feels!
Well, and in talking to many of my SA over time, Chanel considers those who purchase accessories to not be legitimate customers. In fact, Chanel near detests accessories customers, which is why only RTW customers are treated by the company as VIP’s. (Some stores give out gifts if you spend like 100k on bags but this isn’t a corporate deal only local.) If I spend 100k a year on bags, and 50k a year on RTW, only in the latter pool am I considered by Chanel to be a legitimate customer. They indeed capitalize on the accessories customers to make massive profit margins, but at the same time Chanel sees them as “trash” (or as one of my SA said “rodents”). Thus, they bank on price increases having zero effect on the masses’ obsession to be associated with the brand, and consequently emphasis is not placed on either quality (or design IMHO). I am a long-time customer of Chanel (for bags & RTW, I would never wear the shoes or godawful cheap “jewelry” or one of the horrendous CC brooches) and have spent my fair share of funds buying into triple digit count on bags alone. I am upset with the brand’s lack of after service, quality, defects, construction, materials, lack of innovation, you name it, but I’ve invested so much in the brand (I feel) that it’s hard for me to walk away. I keep waiting for the magical moment they hit a wall and realize they need us! (And begin to create an environment geared towards loyalty). One more nail in the coffin here is that Chanel is considered in more and more countries/ regions to be tacky, and defections are en masse to other brands (namely Hermes). Not sure what will happen, but with these issues, and Karl no longer here, I just don’t see how the brand will revive.
Also of note is that sales on accessories are down by 10-15% according to at least 3 of my SA in various regions. The boutiques I usually frequent are like ghost towns, with most coming in to buy an SLG perhaps. The Hermes boutiques, on the other hand, are usually mobbed. I think the lack of care towards its customer base IS translating, but whether they care….? who knows.
Thank you so much for sharing this info. I have a friend/SA who is the #2 SA for Neiman Marcus in my city in CA, and she buys for all the Chanel NM for the stores in the area. She confirmed all the things you are saying…I just started buying RTW this year because of her, I actually really love all my pieces and think that even though they are super over priced, they are all good investments in my wardrobe and make me feel good, and are classic. Sort of ridiculous that the company thinks this way about their accessories only clients. I wonder/sort of think that these feelings may or may not be perpetuated by the types of people who constantly flaunt their expensive luxury handbag purses on social media, while not buying into the rest of the brand, who knows. Anyhow, interesting post and thank you for sharing.
Thanks for your comment. It’s really sad isn’t it? What does she think will eventually happen with the brand/ what wall will it hit in order for things to change? I am with you on the RTW, it’s way overpriced, but very well made (impressively so). I am kind of bummed, however, that the logo mania has kind of taken hold in so many of the RTW collections too though…
She has told me that she thinks the execs have great plans, she is super pro- the brand though, so she might be a bit biased! In SF Chanel is still as popular as ever, it seems like people keep saying people are getting disenfranchised with the brand, but to me it still seems as popular as ever!
This is absolute nonsense. If they wanted to promote their RTW it would occupy more precious real estate in stores. This also goes against branding. The accessories are the brand – if those that carry them are “rodents” (what?) then the whole brand is vermin.
Exactly, total nonsense! The NM store in my city has a small boutique that sells RTW. Then a much larger (at least 10 x larger) boutique that sells handbags and accessories. If RTW is supposed to keep Chanel in business and their SA’s employed then why is the boutique so small? Also, wherever I go I see women carrying Chanel bags, but very rarely wearing Chanel RTW.
I agree on the jewelry – its vulgar.
This is really disheartening and a little appalling. The RTW collection is godawful and, you’re right, tacky. I could never see anyone truly wearing Chanel on a daily basis. If you are wealthy enough to afford it, you’d be wealthy enough to higher a stylist and I can’t imagine they would put you in some of the RTW offerings.
What are “RTW” customers; also, what is “SLG”? I’m familiar with Chanel since I own three bags, but these acronyms have me confused. Thx.
RTW means ready to wear. SLG means small leather goods (you will find these acronyms across all luxury brands that sell these lines) 😉 And I can expound on the subject here too. So Chanel SA make very little commission on accessories, maybe 1.5%. They make much higher on fine jewelry, watches and RTW. They also have quotas for the aforementioned, and can be fired if they are not met. So selling us a bag or a belt or an SLG to them is pretty meaningless b/c the commission is negligible and doesn’t count towards quota. This is why many SA DO value RTW clients much more, b/c they literally help them keep their jobs.
I’m slightly confused by this commission information you have mentioned. How can they get more commission on a watch when it is in similar price point (or less) than a classic bag. I recently purchased a medium classic flap. I’m actually quite happy with the purchase, aside from the creaky chain sound, which I was assured was a new bag issue and my friend (who worked in Chanel corporate for 6 years) stated is a common issue. Anyway, I paid roughly 6k with taxes, and recently went in looking at a premiere watch which retailed for roughly 4k. So why the commission difference (more commission as you’ve stated) on lower priced items?
yes, couldnt agree more.
Extremely informative! I have known of the luxury companies’ attitude about SLG customers (typically those who do not fit into its typical clientele, but low-priced small goods are thrown at them so they can feel that they own this brand), but I had no idea that they felt this way about the accessories customers, including the bags!
It has made me feel very stupid and gullible falling into the trap, it challenges my own core values about myself and drives me crazy! I know better, but I do it anyway! I know they couldn’t care less about me, but I buy anyway. Ugh.
It is such a surrealistic universe, the luxury goods business. I don’t care what a Walmart executive thinks of me when I buy something from them, but it somehow stings me to be thought of with such disdain by the company when I buy luxury goods. Then again, it DOES feel like I am offering a huge chunk of my prescious money at the church of Chanel where I am a devout follower 🙂 I hate how I am so vulnerable to the brand’s gravitational pull on me :(. With all that money I could have funded a successful revolution in a small country overrun by a despot. Instead, my money is probably paying for some celebrity to be flown down to Paris Fashion Week, free clothes and all.
Yes it is indeed And the celebs thank you ?
OR something with LOTS OF horsepower!! Thanks for the LOL I needed one. It’s all social theory, psychology of consumerism. Attributing non-fact-based qualities or characteristics to something b/c we have an emotional / financial investment & need to rationalize. Despite being “woke” I still do it. (Slaps forehead)
Your comments are very interesting. I have been saying for years now (on this forum) that Chanel is on it’s way out. All the bags look the same and the quality is going down from season to season. I have a WOC that I really want to sell as I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing it at this point (and it’s pink). Nor would my teenage daughter, and that says a lot. I would take my $1K from that sale and head straight to LV for a well made interesting small bag. Or to BV, or Hermes, or Dior if I wanted to use my $1K as a down payment on a quality bag. I do take issue with the SA’s thinking of accessories purchasers as rodents. That seems pretty extreme to me. I bought some classic shoes at the Saint-Honore store last year and they were only too happy to sell me $800 shoes on a Sunday morning. And I have bought other shoes in the Beverly Hills store and gotten the same response. So I don’t know if all the SA’s think we are scum. I also agree that the stores are a ghost town. I always look in the window of the BH store, when walking by on my way to Hermes, and there are so many fewer people inside than I remember from years past. Poor Chanel, they are going to have a big wakeup call soon. And they only have themselves to blame.
Omg I thought it was just me who thinks that way about Chanel. I’ve never really been interested in their bags (I’ve always liked their fine jewellery that’s it) but I was curious and went into their Short Hills boutique. I was genuinely looking to see if there’s a bag I’d like. I’m the type that enjoys spur of the moment luxury purchases. The SA was a bit aloof, impersonal but at the core helpful by showing me enough options. I thought all the bags looked and felt the same, it was overwhelming too since the designs were so similar. The collection just felt haphazard.
TLDR: impressions were basic service and uninspired bags.
And a price tag of $4-5000? I’d rather go to Hermes, BV (were the craftsmanship is crazy – the Pouch is so much nicer in person), Moynat or Delvaux. Or vintage.
I am sorry if I mischaracterized. It’s not the SA that see us that way, it’s the mothership, Chanel corporate that sees us that way. I have SA that I love!! And they are equally as distraught about the path of Chanel, equally as confused about the attitude of Chanel towards its declining quality and customer base, and equally as worried about their jobs (attitude of Chanel towards its employees is abysmal and getting worse). BUT I will say, that I have experienced many Chanel SA all too happy to sell me something, and all too aloof (or radio silent) when there is an issue (and I am not a complainer – but when you open a box and stitches are popped out or there’s a gash down the back, I mean, come on). But lately yeah, I mean, these bags I’ve collected, I find myself reluctant to wear, def putting the CC side towards me (flipping the bag around).
The mothership! That is even worse, lol. Will be interesting to see how this company does over the next few years. My guess is in 2 years we will be looking at a whole new Chanel…hopefully. For the time being, “Hubris…by Chanel”, can be a new perfume line…
I don’t buy Chanel bags anymore unless it is on sale. “But they never go on sale!” If you are loyal and friends to your SA, discretely ask them on their yearly employee sale. Old season Chanel bags are 50% off. However, I heard that Chanel is consolidating their stock and store into one mother company, so this might not be a thing anymore. I bought several bags that are in their employee discount. But this was a product of long time customer loyalty. I only buy to one SA.
I’m not sure that I agree that “Chanel is on its way out” because there are die hard fans that I’ve seen buy anything as long as it says Chanel. However, I do agree that the stores are becoming “ghost towns”. Lately, I’m the only customer in Chanel. I have a SA who tries to pressure me into buying whatever I’m looking at. When I discover flaws she quickly dismisses them and says it gives the bag “character”. I’m not interested in character, but quality. I find myself shopping more in Hermes since their bags are higher quality and they stand behind their products.
The thing about the Classic Flap is, to me, that so many people have it. The idea of spending $6,000 or more on a bag isn’t as strange to me as spending that amount on a bag that thousands of people have, especially the black one. This is not a dig at anyone who loves and owns one. My taste always has leaned toward the unusual and unique. Like the sweater flap that came out this season.
When I first started purchasing designer handbags, I almost always bought new ones because I really loved going to boutiques, and I thought the experience of opening up a brand new bag in pristine condition that I knew was mine and mine only was special. But after my apartment was burglarized and all of my bags were stolen, I’ve almost only bought pre-owned, not only because it’s such a better deal, but also because I already had the experience of “brand new” and I just didn’t feel the need anymore. The side effect of this was that because I was buying bags in excellent, but not pristine, condition, I didn’t freak out when a bag got its first scratch, or if there was some minor wear on the corners, etc. It’s a really freeing feeling…
At this point, the only time I buy brand new is when I go to Europe for business and can take advantage of the way better prices there, but that’s still only if the bag can’t be purchased at a good price on the consignment market. Even so, I’m pretty confident I’ll never buy a new classic flap because there are sooooo many on the resale market.
I will take my rodent bag of money somewhere else. Already have 5 Chanel bags. Jerks.
I wouldn’t take what one posters experience has been. I highly doubt the corporate bigwigs think of SLG and jewelry buyers as scum. Come on
Exactly, I completely agree with you! Corporate Chanel is in business to make money and while some may feel this way, because their profit margins aren’t as high as they forecast, they aren’t going to be so dismissive of their customers. They are not going to shoot off their nose to spite their face, or insert any metaphor necessary, but I don’t believe the naysayers.
I would hesitate to believe everything that is posted here. If Chanel is not for you, don’t purchase anything there. I still love my Chanel bags and have been treated the same purchasing an SLG or RTW. I do believe that Chanel is trying to keep their products exclusive. I do not enjoy the price increases either but it does make my bags worth more. You can say whatever you want, Chanel is not going anywhere.
The Soho store here in NYC is usually packed but it’s mostly with tourists from either outside the state or another country. The SAs there are a mix of aloofness (probably because they are always busy) and attentiveness – it depends on who you get and what kind of day they are having. I stopped going there and now I’m loyal to a SA who works out of the Chanel boutique at Saks Fifth Ave. I think Chanel has been appealing to a younger crowd lately and maybe a hipper crowd because I see artists like Billie Eilish and Cardi B wearing their stuff and Kristen Stewart has been all over their ad campaigns so it’s possible their quality has suffered because these influencers may see some of these luxury items as “disposable” since they are quickly moving from one cool item to another. I agree that the brand is here to stay but they will probably market to a different crowd now. I will start looking at Hermes as a possibility but have always thought the brand as being “out of reach”. Frankly, I’ve been focused more on Dior now since LV’s newest collection hasn’t been too interesting for me.
Agreed, Sandy. Most of these negative comments don’t jibe with my observations at all. The Houston boutique is always packed with customers of all ages. And they’re buying, not just looking. I buy handbags almost exclusively (I have a collection of 27) but am certainly treated as a VIP whenever I walk in the door. When out and about, I receive many compliments on my bags, most often from young women. I think the brand popularity continues to expand to such an extent that Chanel is worried about maintaining the aura of exclusivity, thus price increases.
I would hesitate to believe everything that is posted here. If Chanel is not for you, don’t purchase anything there. I still love my Chanel bags and have been treated the same purchasing an SLG or RTW. I do believe that Chanel is trying to keep their products exclusive. I do not enjoy the price increases either but it does make my bags worth more. You can say whatever you want, Chanel is not going anywhere.
I decided in 2018 to stop buying Chanel right after buying a green camera bag in Paris. I had major buyer’s remorse (the only time that has ever happened with a bag) after I returned home and the more I thought about the price I had paid, the more I decided that it was time to leave Chanel behind. I continue to enjoy the seven bags that I own but it’s been almost 18 months and I have had no desire to purchase a Chanel bag. I am disgusted by the price increases and some the posts on this thread make me continue to think that I made the right decision.
I’ve always wanted a Chanel bag. I bought one that fit my style. Haven’t wanted one since then. Well, I take that back. I would love to have a Trendy CC. I would like a wallet or a card case, but the prices are just too astronomical for what it is. So, yeah. Chanel can raise their prices all they want. I just have no interest. I’ve come to realize that Chanel is just not my style.
Outrageous prices! To think they’ve stopped plating their gold hardware with 24K gold.
I’m not sure most people understand what is happening with Chanel now and how things are changing. As Chanel takes over stores and the control of them, they are cutting pay and benefits for associates. In the end, a part of the old Chanel culture is dying. It seems that Chanel is turning to the new customer-the millennial who doesn’t have an expectation of quality or care about the history of the brand. It is true that the only client that matters is the one who buys overpriced RTW. Things are changing and Chanel is not the exclusive brand it used to be.
I browse the Soho store in NYC a lot and it seems like there’s high turnover amongst the SAs. I get cursory attention there because the store is very very busy. I feel I get better service from the Chanel boutique inside the Saks Fifth Avenue. I usually get catalog mailings (I love the luxury brand catalogs – I’ve gotten the Gucci and Chanel ones from Saks) from Saks but rarely from the boutiques directly. I don’t know if it’s a department store vs stand alone boutique thing.
Meanwhile the SAs at Dior and LV have mostly been there for a while. Makes me wonder how bad the corporate culture at Chanel is.
can you elaborate on taking over and controlling stores? Don’t they already own them?
Chanel is taking over ownership of the franchises they have had at department stores. At Saks, e.g., some are Saks’ franchises and others are “owned” by Chanel. It is more difficult to transfer items among stores because of this. And only the stores that are owned by Saks participate in Saks’ programs like the major purchase accounts (interest free for e.g. 6 or 12 months). Soon all will be owned by Chanel.
Wow. It’s complicated. Thank you!!
I vowed years ago to never buy a Chanel bag because if those insane price increases, which I find are “I had too much crack” not justified… Anyhoo, I’d rather buy a beautiful watch for that price.
It’s true that there are two kinds of clients: people who stick with accessories (shoes, bags, scarves, etc.) and people who buy accessories and clothing. The vast majority of people simply can’t afford to spend 8K on a dress because you can only wear it so many times. A bag, on the other hand, can be worn as frequently as you want. That’s true across all luxury brands (with a haute couture heritage). I am the type of client who only buys accessories and shoes because I simply cannot afford a wardrobe of H/Chanel/Vuitton RTW. Most people are like me. Despite my lack of unlimited funds, I have always been treated very nicely.
There is a lot of interesting discussion on the topic of what Chanel thinks about their customers. I have 2 SA’s since I travel back and forth between Portland, Ore. and Denver and each store carries a few different styles. (I love Portland…no taxes)! However, in Portland there is no RTW and the SA’s only sell bags and accessories. In the Denver store there is a very small Chanel RTW on the 2nd floor, but I rarely see anyone in it. On the 1st level there is a larger store that sells bags and accessories with many more customers. I find it difficult that Chanel would look down on their customers, who only shop accessories, because how many ppl seriously spend $100K on bags, clothes, annually? If Chanel doesn’t care for the budgeted shopper who cares? I buy bags, wallets, etc. for myself because I love them. However, when I shop in Chanel I’m treated as a valued customer who is offered water, champagne, etc. and the SA politely shows me any bag I’m interested regardless if I purchase. My experiences have been positive and I’m treated as a valued customer vs. a “number” or the “next customer in line” as department stores treat their customers.
I think luck has something to do with it. I was in Hong Kong twice for business. First time I went to Chanel the SA was great and I bought more than I planned! Second trip, same store, different SA. Horrible. I was looking at the bag and she was craning her neck to see another woman (I assume a known wealthy client) in the shop – it was SO obvious. She’d toss me an annoyed “hurry up you unworthy peasant” look. I got so pissed I politely told her off and left.
I would consider buying a pre-loved in great condition if the price difference was significant. Usually those websites sell them for just under the boutique price, savings equal $300 – $500. In my case, I’d rather spend an extra $500 for a brand new bag straight from a Chanel store. That’s my point of view, for some people any savings count.
I agree, very little saving and there is always the doubt its not genuine. For this reason i’d prefer to buy new when savings isnt significant.
With all the “super fakes” out there, I’d rather have the peace of mind that I bought a genuine bag so I count the money spent as “insurance”. I’ve bought pre-loved before but there’s always doubt (maybe irrational) that the bags aren’t real.
With the massive profit margin you think they’d bring back the gold plated hardware. I have non-Chanel bags with gold plated hardware. When I compare them to my Chanel the difference is staggering. The Chanel looks so cheap yet it cost twice as much as my gold-plated hardware bags.
Of course you can choose to believe what you’d like but Chanel is not the exclusive brand it once was. Chanel has really changed its marketing and style to appeal to the new customer-the millennial -the one who doesn’t know what quality used to be like. Chanel used to be a quiet discreet luxe brand. Perhaps you only knew it was a Chanel item because of the detail on the button and there always was the obvious CC clasp. But today, the name is splattered across clothing, bags and jewelry and it is considered to be tacky but long time Chanel lovers. There are so many discussions about quality declining and so many instances….I love the brand myself but am listening to what is going on. The high end customers in Europe are already talking about how its not cool anymore.
I so agree with you about the brand’s less exclusive appeal. I really think social media (and reality tv stars) has contributed to the brand’s decline. When you see all these twenty-something “influencers” dressed in head to toe Chanel then you know the brand is not exclusive anymore. I’ve been appalled at all the crap Chanel has put its label on, not to mention the junk jewelry. I have three bags and a couple of pairs of shoes, and honestly if I do buy another Chanel bag it will be vintage.
If I have to save up for purchasing a bag, my answer is simply not to buy. I only save for purchase real estate property. nothing else worth saving up for. I enjoy stuff that I buy at ease, so I can enjoy them without concerning anything. Besides, you can never buy exclusivity nor status. After all, even it’s Chanel, it’s still just a bag.
So many interesting comments! I wonder if something is changing in the way we view luxury retail? I’ve been seeing more and more on Youtube young influencers listing the luxury items they regret buying, I wonder if this is the sign of a shift and if consumers are finally tired of being treated like shit/cattle by luxury retailers….food for thought…
It is changing! Just watch…
Only an insane person would spend that on a handbag it’s all just marketing
I agree with the comments. I have several Chanel bags, and my black classic has some loose threads. And I take very good care of them. I love my Hermes bags, better quality , leather, and craftsmanship. I sold my coco bag. I would to sell my pink 255 but not a market for it. The 255 don’t hold value. So for now on, Hermes is my bag.
PS: What does SA mean?
Sales Associate.
A lot of good points made but the truth for me is, I can’t wear RTW in my beach community. I would stand out and my friends would feel uncomfortable around me because of it. I have three Chanel jackets that work over jeans, jewelry that I can blend in with everything from from a silk blouse to a t-shirt and two handbags that I always hesitate to take with me. One is a jumbo flap that is hard to wear crossbody because of the chain and a small clutch that holds only my phone. I enjoy my earrings, my brooches (YES! Brooches!) and my necklaces. But I’ve probably made my last Chanel purchases, especially after reading this article.
I have always wanted a Chanel jacket to wear with jeans and a t-shirt. I think that look will be classic for years to come. Let’s hope Chanel gets their quality and pricing issues in line so their classic looks stay classic.
Agree that the Chanel price increases coupled with the obvious decline in quality are off-putting. Had an early ’90s Chanel double flap with GP hardware that FAR outshined the newer Chanels I purchased. Not worth it to buy Chanel new, IMO. And their wallets definitely aren’t as well-made as they were years/decades ago. Much of the Chanel jewelry, especially the double “CCs” are tacky to my eyes. But then I also dislike the logomania look in any designer. One or two discreet logo(s)/emblem(s) is enough. And buying pre-loved definitely removes the “fear factor” about damaging the bags, especially lambskin ones.
I’ve seen a lot of commenters post about going to Hermès instead of Chanel but aren’t they the folks that play the “sorry no Birkin or Kelly” game? Their bags are also ridiculously expensive for very simple designs. At least Chanel has more innovative designs (sometimes tacky I admit) – I’m thinking about Mr. Lagerfeld’s fabulous last collection with the gold crocodile embossing.
I couldn’t really get into H too much either, it just isn’t my style, but I DO enjoy my B’s. Some of the 2020 bags though I do like (cinhetic top handle). I’ve gone mostly to Delvaux, quality is phenomenal (I think actually better than H & also 100% handmade), and the designs have edge, innovation & creativity. The company is amazing & no logos (minus a very few artsy pieces). I’ve really struggled with where to go after Chanel. I will collect the 19 bag in like 10 colors I am sure, but I find it purposely silly/ tacky looking (the bag doesn’t take itself too seriously) but the rest are just yuck.
I couldn’t really get into H too much either, it just isn’t my style, but I DO enjoy my B’s. Some of the 2020 bags though I do like (cinhetic top handle). I’ve gone mostly to Delvaux, quality is phenomenal (I think actually better than H & also 100% handmade), and the designs have edge, innovation & creativity. The company is amazing & no logos (minus a very few artsy pieces). I’ve really struggled with where to go after Chanel. I will collect the 19 bag in like 10 colors I am sure, but I find it purposely silly/ tacky looking (the bag doesn’t take itself too seriously) but the rest are just yuck.
Clarifying here b/c a lot of the comments are about the way SA treat clients, which was not what I was referring to in the least. To be a true Chanel VIP you MUST purchase RTW, jewelry, non-accessories in the six digits. I am not talking about getting bottled water or a glass of champagne, I am talking about being invited to the runway shows and after parties. I am talking about having access to items that were not ordered for the USA. I am talking about having a global personal stylist/ SA who can custom order pieces for you exactly as you’d like them. To me, that’s what a VIP means. Local SA do not have a say & are of course amazing to their customers almost all the time! Most other luxury brands like LV or Givenchy or Delvaux or Ferragamo or Hermes or Dior treat VIP’s amazingly. They are invited to shows and parties and private tours of artisan facilities, access to bespoke bags, previews of collections in person, etc. This was not how the SA see accessories clients. This was about how CHANEL corp sees accessories clients. Very big difference.
Maybe this discussion re: Chanel bags moved off of your topic re: what is a “True Chanel VIP”, but even if it’s not what you “were referring to in the least” it’s not necessary to “clarify”. This is clearly a hotly debated topic and everyone has different opinions and more importantly different experiences. Therefore, it’s free game to discuss whatever needs to be discussed without what strongly appears to be censorship, on your part. I might be going out on a limb, but my guess is that many ppl on this blog will never know or even care about the official Chanel “VIP experience”. Hopefully, driving the discussion in the direction you wanted, while showing a perceived view of disrespect for other ppl’s opinions, wasn’t intentional. Hopefully, you didn’t mean it to sound as it reads.
Perhaps reading through the entire comment section from the beginning, for which my comment started much discussion, would give you some balanced perspective. In kind, don’t suggest censorship on my part either. I say what I say, you say what you say, I haven’t responded to anyone directly in contradiction of their opinions. You are the first on this entire discussion to start getting all offended. Until now it’s been mature and interesting rhetoric. Congrats for taking it somewhere it didn’t need to go.
Actually don’t pay attention to anything I say, I just get on here to troll all you snobby a**holes who think you’re better than everyone else. You’re all insane to buy this stuff anyways. I will stick to my perfectly fine bags from TJMaxx and Marshall’s. They work just fine. Buh-bye!
I did not write this. I strongly believe that TKS wrote this since she/he? was upset that I called her/him out for controlling this conversation and undermining those who disagreed. It is pretty frightening and horrendous that someone would portray another person in such a slanderous way. Furthermore, this surprised me because it was completely unnecessary. It shows an obvious instability on their part for lacking the ability to accept constructive criticism for their part in this discussion. I can accept criticism in any form, but to write something like this while pretending to be me says a lot about you, TKS, and not me.
Not sure what your drama is all about, but don’t wish to be pulled in. Please leave me out. Thx.
I’m not sure what your mental illness is because I didn’t write such a ridiculous, and obscenely laced tirade. You wrote it as a response to my earlier comment, and for reasons unknown to me, you attributed it to me. There is really something inherently wrong with you to do this to another person. You know you wrote it, I know you wrote it, and at this time I’m not going to respond to you any further since it’s pointless and a waste of my time.
Ha! You took it there…I just responded. If you can’t take constructive criticism don’t post. Bye, Mrs. Rogers!
Maybe this discussion re: Chanel bags moved off of your topic re: what is a “True Chanel VIP”, but even if it’s not what you “were referring to in the least” it’s not necessary to “clarify”. This is clearly a hotly debated topic and everyone has different opinions and more importantly different experiences. Therefore, it’s free game to discuss whatever needs to be discussed without what strongly appears to be censorship, on your part. I might be going out on a limb, but my guess is that many ppl on this blog will never know or even care about the official Chanel “VIP experience”. Hopefully, driving the discussion in the direction you wanted, while showing a perceived view of disrespect for other ppl’s opinions, wasn’t intentional. Hopefully, you didn’t mean it to sound as it reads.
Perhaps reading through the entire comment section from the beginning, for which my comment started much discussion, would give you some balanced perspective. In kind, don’t suggest censorship on my part either. I say what I say, you say what you say, I haven’t responded to anyone directly in contradiction of their opinions. You are the first on this entire discussion to start getting all offended. Until now it’s been mature and interesting rhetoric. Congrats for taking it somewhere it didn’t need to go.
This is very true. If you wonder what it means to be a VIP-you need to be a RTW buyer, that is really all Chanel cares about. Upon repeatedly purchasing 100k per year, you too can be invited to the Runway shows. As Chanel is taking back control of all the stores owned inside Dept stores, they are also cutting all employee wages quite drastically. Employees are telling me its a 50% reduction. Gone are the days of nice commissions but especially on bags and accessories. It is already becoming difficult to get service as many have quit or are becoming disillusioned with the loss of the Chanel as they knew it….selling a bag or pair of earrings is almost not worth it. I know a number of the SA’s quite well and they are saddened to see what is happening. For myself as a customer, I’m finding I know more than the new SA’s being hired. The commission for them now comes from selling shoes or RTW, That speaks volumes of what the company really thinks.
With all of that said I’m wondering how many VIP’s frequent this blog? And how many Chanel VIP’s there really are? Hundreds? Thousands? IDK, just curious.
I don’t know. There used to be quite a few on tpf, I think they’ve moved on from the brand for the most part, as it’s not what it used to be. I’ve never bought enough RTW to hit that tier, and even 6 figures in bags a year doesn’t count. I’ve hit it with some of the other houses mentioned above, and honestly, that’s what made me start really realizing that Chanel isn’t eager to keep me or anyone else as a “mostly accessories” client. It was kind of a gross realization.
I don’t know. There used to be quite a few on tpf, I think they’ve moved on from the brand for the most part, as it’s not what it used to be. I’ve never bought enough RTW to hit that tier, and even 6 figures in bags a year doesn’t count. I’ve hit it with some of the other houses mentioned above, and honestly, that’s what made me start really realizing that Chanel isn’t eager to keep me or anyone else as a “mostly accessories” client. It was kind of a gross realization.
Do you mind talking a bit about being a VIP for other brands? I’m always fascinated by what the brands do to court their VIPs.
Hi! I know that question isn’t addressed to me but I’d like to share a VIP story. I know a friend whose aunt is clearly a VIP at Burberry. This was maybe 2-3 years ago but her and her husband was treated to a small group VIP experience in one of the stores. It was a private monogramming (or painting?) event for bags e.t.c complete with demonstration and sort of a history talk about the brand. I know she mentioned Veuve was flowing and they were treated to a traditional English afternoon tea w tea sandwiches e.t.c which makes sense coz it’s a British brand? Apparently the tea service was very fancy. But anyway they provided the transportation, Burberry paid for their flight and car service to the event. It sounded amazing we were all oohing and aahing. Lol.
Thanks for this example! I’ve been away on holidays so I missed it until now.
This event sounded delightful even before Burberry paid their transportation!
Oh my gosh that is such an in depth topic!! They are all so different in how they approach definition of a “VIP”. Honestly I hate that terminology anyway, as pretty much anyone who walks into a store and drops 5-10k on a bag SHOULD be treated amazingly. It was so different 10-15 years ago, now it’s just a cattle call to the register. I was reminded in London last year, when I went with my good friend to Delvaux. They made an appointment for us to come in, we were downstairs on a big round sofa, they had macaroons, champagne, etc etc and 3 SA pulling out things from he back. We didn’t end up buying anything that day, but we left with gift wrapped beautiful coffee table books on the history of the brand. So, some houses still do this, most just don’t. “Luxury” has changed, and I am afraid too many just weren’t around to know what it should TRULY feel like . Dropping 5-10k for a bag, or any item, is a ton of money. Customers shouldn’t have to chase to spend money like that, I think customers should feel like their business is truly desired by the house. That, to me, feels like being a VIP. Yes, there are tiers for all these houses, and it’s pretty darn fun, but it shouldn’t take spending so much just to be treated well. Chanel, I feel, has lost this connection with its customer. Moreover, Chanel really doesn’t care either 😉
Thank you for this post! True luxury experiences are lacking these days, and I think this is what makes the price increases hard to stomach. Shopping in the boutique is hardly different than going to a run of the mill department store.
Thanks for answering!
It can be so hard in Chanel to get the attention of any SA.
It feels so disrespectful as a customer to have dropped such significant amounts of money on Chanel bags, jewelry and shoes and know that it’s not enough to qualify you for respect from a fashion house. I think many people here would like to think they are VIPs of some kind. But instead we are faced with knowing our buying habits have not entitled us to anything yet we see declining quality in craftsmanship as well as service. Im someone who happens to love the brand and these changes make me very sad. As another poster mentioned, you can see the changes lately in the way Chanel is appealing to the younger customer who likes the loud logos and could care less about quality. If you have read thru these comments and you disagree or you think Chanel is headed in the right direction, have a talk with a SA you know and find out what they have to say. Most appalling of all to me is they wont invest in their best resource, their people. It’s up to us as customers to stand up for what we will and what we wont accept.
I’ve been curious about Delvaux and will be in London in March. Did you go to the Bond Street boutique?
Yes we did! They are wonderful there!
Yes we did! They are wonderful there!
Thanks; great to know! I will definitely check them out. A lot of the styles don’t seem appealing to me in photos but the new box bag is speaking to me 🙂
I totally get that. The Tempete was my first one, then I got the Brillant, and added quite a few of those to my collection before getting (this week) a few Madame Chaine. They don’t do a bunch of marketing (by design) so the boutique experience really is where you get the gist of who they are! I hope it’s an amazing experience for you!
Oh my gosh that is such an in depth topic!! They are all so different in how they approach definition of a “VIP”. Honestly I hate that terminology anyway, as pretty much anyone who walks into a store and drops 5-10k on a bag SHOULD be treated amazingly. It was so different 10-15 years ago, now it’s just a cattle call to the register. I was reminded in London last year, when I went with my good friend to Delvaux. They made an appointment for us to come in, we were downstairs on a big round sofa, they had macaroons, champagne, etc etc and 3 SA pulling out things from he back. We didn’t end up buying anything that day, but we left with gift wrapped beautiful coffee table books on the history of the brand. So, some houses still do this, most just don’t. “Luxury” has changed, and I am afraid too many just weren’t around to know what it should TRULY feel like . Dropping 5-10k for a bag, or any item, is a ton of money. Customers shouldn’t have to chase to spend money like that, I think customers should feel like their business is truly desired by the house. That, to me, feels like being a VIP. Yes, there are tiers for all these houses, and it’s pretty darn fun, but it shouldn’t take spending so much just to be treated well. Chanel, I feel, has lost this connection with its customer. Moreover, Chanel really doesn’t care either 😉
I have purchased several Chanel from The RealReal and saved a lot of money purchasing either excellent or very good condition. I have my eye on the bucket bag next…..
Did you see the investigative report on CNBC? The RealReal should be call the FakeFake! You should check it out.
Have not seen. Do you have link?
I tried to reply, but my comments keep getting deleted.
I tried replying several times with info, but they keep deleting my post. I’m going to screenshot this over to my colleagues at my TV station! Shame on you Purse Blog!
I tried to reply 3 times but my post is being deleted!
I don’t have a link, but you can Google it. It was very damaging to their brand! They said some of the copywriters were actually authenticating the bags!
I don’t, but if you Google, you will find lots! The report alleges that hourly workers with the title “copywriter,” rather than professional authenticators, are performing the majority of authentication of consigned items before writing their descriptions and posting them on the website. Seven former TRR copywriters were interviewed for the report, all of whom said they didn’t feel it was appropriate for them to be authenticating. WTF!!!
I bought an excellent condition pre-loved Chanel caviar leather black flap medium bag for myself in December 2018 for $3,799 and I am so glad I purchased pre-loved (the bag was less than 2 years old as well.) Agree the prices are insane. If I want a new Chanel I go for something small like a WOC or SLG when I am lucky enough to travel in Europe where the price is lower and the VAT return makes it less painful!
I bought an excellent condition pre-loved Chanel caviar leather black flap medium bag for myself in December 2018 for $3,799 and I am so glad I purchased pre-loved (the bag was less than 2 years old as well.) Agree the prices are insane. If I want a new Chanel I go for something small like a WOC or SLG when I am lucky enough to travel in Europe where the price is lower and the VAT return makes it less painful!
I’ve never bought a bag outside the US before so I was just wondering – even though the prices may be lower and you get a VAT return, does that get canceled out by the duties you have to pay at US customs?
Yes, you’ll still save….depending on how expensive the item is it may be savings of a few hundred dollars or more. You get an exemption of $800 per person on customs duty when you return home; $1,600 if you are traveling with a family member. At the end of the day, you’ll still save about $700 between the VAT return AND paying customs in the US with a classic medium flap. If you buy a bag less than $1,600, you don’t have to pay any customs duty at all. I bought a LV Neverfull in Spain in June and not only was it cheaper in Europe, but I got the VAT return, did not have to pay customs since it was under the limit — and I sold the pouch it comes with. After all of that, the bag ended up costing me about $850. There is some good info on this on the Purse Forum as well. Good luck!
Yes, you’ll still save….depending on how expensive the item is it may be savings of a few hundred dollars or more. You get an exemption of $800 per person on customs duty when you return home; $1,600 if you are traveling with a family member. At the end of the day, you’ll still save about $700 between the VAT return AND paying customs in the US with a classic medium flap. If you buy a bag less than $1,600, you don’t have to pay any customs duty at all. I bought a LV Neverfull in Spain in June and not only was it cheaper in Europe, but I got the VAT return, did not have to pay customs since it was under the limit — and I sold the pouch it comes with. After all of that, the bag ended up costing me about $850. There is some good info on this on the Purse Forum as well. Good luck!
I can address this based on my own personal experience. On my 2nd trip to Paris I purchased a Chanel bag and declared the value at customs. I paid an extra $165.00 in duty, but with that and the VAT I received back I saved a couple hundred dollars. Customs informed me that “not everyone declares the full value of their purchases” which I thought was an odd thing to tell me”; however, looking around I was the only one in customs paying duty. On my 3rd trip home from Paris I saw women take their bags to VAT and then carry them onto the plane most likely to avoid declaring them and paying duty.
I can address this based on my own personal experience. On my 2nd trip to Paris I purchased a Chanel bag and declared the value at customs. I paid an extra $165.00 in duty, but with that and the VAT I received back I saved a couple hundred dollars. Customs informed me that “not everyone declares the full value of their purchases” which I thought was an odd thing to tell me”; however, looking around I was the only one in customs paying duty. On my 3rd trip home from Paris I saw women take their bags to VAT and then carry them onto the plane most likely to avoid declaring them and paying duty.
It’s been quite awhile since I joined tPF conversations, but this one really caught my attention. My short opinion: It depends.
All of this rings true for me: the decline in quality, the ubiquity of the flap bag, the general cheapening of the brand by tacky celebrities etc. And it makes sense that the company itself would be less interested in accessories customers than people who buy the clothes.
Personally, I’ve never experienced a rude or dismissive SA in the US or Europe, but I’m sure it depends on the boutique. (Shout out to Portland OR, where they are lovely and helpful. When I had a dark silver jumbo flap sent to me a few years ago and the stitches were wonky, the SA couldn’t have been nicer about finding me a replacement).
Nonetheless, my Chanel loyalty has definitely shifted to Hermès and I’ve sold some of my bags. I still have — and love — a small black lamb flap, an older black jumbo with gold plated hardware, a black 2.55, the dark silver jumbo, and a blue flap (bought second-hand). The great thing about preowned is that they feel less “precious”, and the longer I own any of my bags, the more the “sticker shock” wears off and I stop worrying about using them.
Anyway, once I own a bag, the purchasing “experience” is no longer a factor so I think it’s a question of what makes you comfortable. For preowned, try Ann’s Fabulous Finds — they are very careful and thorough — and make sure you at least get the authenticity card!
I doubt I’ll buy any more Chanel (esp. at the boutiques) but I’m happy to wear and enjoy the ones I have. And who cares what a salesperson thinks!!
It seems to me that many writing here are sore losers for not being able to buy Chanel bags, yes its outrageous that they increase the sale price every so often but if you actually go to any of the resale sites you can see that it is an investment that will hold for a long time. Hermes and Chanel are both brands the have the biggest resale value. There might be some flaws, sometimes but a Chanel bag, specially the classic bags will always be great investments, don’t believe me just go to whatever preowned website you like and see for yourself.
I feel I am a sore loser but lucky to own multiple Chanel and Hermes so have a good perspective. You will be so surprised if you will try to sell a Chanel bag bought let’s say within last 2 years. I have lost £1000 on each Chanel bag i sold (had way too many), bags were hardly used with full documentation, boxes. The fact the bag is listed close to retail on resellers sites doesn’t mean you’ll earn the mony or you’ll sell it for the website price.
The only people who these days earn money on bags are resellers. One recently wanted to earn around 5k EUR on my Hermes bag that I’m letting go. I don’t need to mention that I would be at a major loss on a brand new highly sought after Kelly. So.
I took my lesson from this and not buying bags so eagerly believing i can sell them easily and not to loose much in the process.
I feel I am a sore loser but lucky to own multiple Chanel and Hermes so have a good perspective. You will be so surprised if you will try to sell a Chanel bag bought let’s say within last 2 years. I have lost £1000 on each Chanel bag i sold (had way too many), bags were hardly used with full documentation, boxes. The fact the bag is listed close to retail on resellers sites doesn’t mean you’ll earn the mony or you’ll sell it for the website price.
The only people who these days earn money on bags are resellers. One recently wanted to earn around 5k EUR on my Hermes bag that I’m letting go. I don’t need to mention that I would be at a major loss on a brand new highly sought after Kelly. So.
I took my lesson from this and not buying bags so eagerly believing i can sell them easily and not to loose much in the process.
About 9-10 years ago, I went to the Chanel store in Chicago. I wanted to buy a brand new bag but couldn’t decide what I wanted. Finally , I decided on the shoppers tote in black with silver hardware. They packed it up and off I went.I came home to PA and it was about one month after I purchased it and I was out and about and the bag broke! The silver rings that hold the handle in -two of them just gave way.I was sick to my stomach after spending all that money. I called the store and they told me they would repair it. I told them I dont want it repaired I want a different bag. The sales manager was so rude -said there was no reason for me to chose another bag. I told him while $2500 may not be a lot to him , it is a lot to me (that’s what it cost at the time).He told me of course its a lot and ‘fine if thats what you want’. (no clue why I remember this since I can’t remember yesterday!) I sent it back and waited mos for them to get a single flap in black caviar (which I dont know why I got since I already have the lambskin) I rarely use the black caviar-its not that big. I guess my point is I spent so much money and it was made so poorly. Sometimes the cost does not equal the quality.
I was in Paris two weeks ago, and went into two Chanel boutiques. The service is NOT the same. Instantly, I noticed the SAs are all much younger than I was used to seeing. It seemed like the SAs who were there a few years ago, had been there for quite some time, and were pretty knowledgeable about the brand, its history, and bags, old and new. One SA I spoke with didn’t know what a GST (Grand Shopping Tote) was. As recently as 4 years ago, when you walked into the boutiques, they immediately offered you a drink. This time, after about 40 minutes, my mom and I had to ask for water. I was so excited to buy my bag in Paris, because of my previous experiences (it was much more personal than here in the U.S.). However, I was so disappointed, I went to Faubourg Saint Honore, bought a bag from Givenchy, and some boots from Valentino, with what I was going to spend in Chanel, and I’m very happy! If I do decide on another Chanel, it will absolutely be pre-loved.
The price increases coupled with the lesser quality of new items makes buying pre-loved and vintage a must for me. That’s why Chanel is trying to get in on the pre-loved game. I hope no one falls for it.
I started buying Chanel back in 2004, between 2004 and 2008 I was obsessed with the brand, and I’d buy 1-2 bags every season from them. A caviar jumbo back in 2005, if I remembered correctly, was about $1600. The price increases have been insane. But what’s more annoying is the decline of quality! In the old days, the bags feel so solid, the touch and smell of the leather, the weight of the hardware. These days, every time I go into the store I just feel how cheap the new bags look and feel. They just don’t feel luxurious! I was wearing an early 90s lambskin camera bag with 24k plated gold hardware while checking out these new bags, the quality and craftsmanship is like day and night. I will only buy vintage now. And I don’t worry about super fake; I only buy from reputable resellers; many only specialize in vintage models. And compared to the current models, vintage models don’t really get super fakes. And because I’ve bought so many Chanel bags over the years I feel like I know the details of the bags quite well myself that I feel quite comfortable going the preloved route. Of course, I still use a professional authenticator just for my peace of mind.
What resellers do you recommend?
So far I only bought two vintage, one from Collector Square in Paris and another from Vintage Qoo in Tokyo. I tend to look at resellers all over the world besides just the popular one in the US like FASHIONPHILE. Amore Vintage and Brandoff in Japan, Resee in France, Lovintage in Hong Kong.
back in 2011, I bought my Jumbo flap in Black Caviar and Gold hardware for $3,900. I feel way better about my purchase now. I’m not that old but I can remember that in the 2000’s, maybe 2006 or 2007, a medium flap was $1750. How times have changed