A chic yet underrated gem!
For many handbag lovers, the Chanel Classic Flap is the immediate association with the House of Chanel. But beyond the iconic Flap lies a world of other exceptional designs — including the often-overlooked Chanel 31 Bag.
While bags like the 2.55, the Boy, and the Coco Handle frequently steal the spotlight, the Chanel 31 quietly charms those who take a closer look. It's sleek, versatile, and effortlessly stylish.
The Chanel 31 Bag: A Quick Look Back
Karl Lagerfeld, who famously revitalized Chanel in 1983, unveiled the Chanel 31 Bag during the Fall 2018 runway. Inspired by vintage Chanel designs, the bag was crafted to be carried multiple ways — by hand, over the shoulder, or folded as a clutch.
Initially, the crinkled leather versions sparked mixed feelings, but over time, Chanel refined the design. Newer versions offer improved structure, sleeker materials, and longer chain straps, enhancing both form and function.
Although it wasn’t an instant hit, every time I encounter a Chanel 31 — whether in photos or in real life — I’m reminded of its understated elegance. There's a unique sophistication about its top-handle silhouette and slim profile that keeps drawing me back.
The Chanel 31 Shopping Bag may not have commanded the hype of other Chanel designs, but it certainly deserves more recognition for its quiet chicness and versatility.
Spotlight on the Chanel 31 Bag
What do you think? Is the Chanel 31 the most underrated Chanel bag out there?