The Ultimate Guide to the Chanel 2.55 Reissue Flap

The classic quilted 2.55 bag from Chanel revolutionized how women wore bags.

Coco Chanel’s initial foray into handbags resulted in the creation of the 2.55 flap bag, which decades later, in homage to this revolutionary style, was brought back to become the 2.55 Reissue by Karl Lagerfeld. The Reissue bag boasts a rich history and distinctive design elements that pay tribute to Coco Chanel’s legacy. Additionally, the Reissue is available in various sizes, materials, colors, and styles, making it a mainstay in Chanel’s line of iconic bags. Discover more about the Chanel 2.55 Reissue in this ultimate guide. 

The Legacy of the 2.55 Flap

The iconic Chanel 2.55 bag was born in February 1955 and designed by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. The name 2.55 is a direct homage to its birthdate. Fast forward to February 2005, and the legendary fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld introduced the Reissue, marking the 50th anniversary of the 2.55 bag’s original creation. Today, the Reissue bag remains a pivotal style in the line of Chanel bags, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

What Makes the Chanel Reissue 2.55 Flap Iconic

The Chanel Reissue bag holds a profound significance, drawing inspiration from Coco Chanel’s multifaceted life experiences. Influenced by her love for horseback riding, the Chanel Reissue straps are reminiscent of bridles and harnesses, capturing the spirit of Coco Chanel’s equestrian adventures. The Reissue flap bag’s straps also bear resemblance to the belts worn by the nuns who played a pivotal role in her upbringing and education, underscoring the deep impact of her formative years. 

The Reissue bag’s quilted pattern borrows inspiration from the uniforms worn by young stable boys. Coco Chanel’s affinity for menswear is evident in this choice, as she sought to merge comfort and sophistication throughout women’s fashion. Through these thoughtful and intricate details, the Chanel Reissue flap bag is not just an accessory but a testament to Chanel’s fashion-forward and innovative vision.

Chanel 2.55 Reissue Flap Size Comparisons

The Chanel Reissue 2.55 comes in six sizes, ranging from smallest to largest: Mini, 224, 225, 226, 227, and 228. 

1. CHANEL Metallic Goatskin Quilted 2.55 Reissue Wallet on Chain WOC Multicolor
2. CHANEL Wool Tweed Quilted 2.55 Reissue 225 Flap Blue
3. CHANEL Aged Calfskin Quilted 2.55 Reissue Mini Flap Beige
4. CHANEL Sheepskin Chevron Quilted 2.55 Reissue 226 Flap Yellow
5. CHANEL Aged Calfskin Quilted 2.55 Reissue 227 Flap Black

Chanel Reissue Bag Sizes & Measurements

• The Chanel 2.55 Reissue Mini Flap measures approximately 7.75″ x 4.5″ x 3″ 
• The Chanel 2.55 Reissue 224 Flap measures approximately 7.75″ x 5.25″ x 3″
• The Chanel 2.55 Reissue 225 Flap measures approximately 9.5″ x 6.25″ x 3″ 
• The Chanel 2.55 Reissue 226 Flap measures approximately 11″ x 6.5″ x 3.25″
• The Chanel 2.55 Reissue 227 Flap measures approximately 12.25″ x 7.5″ x 3.5″ 
• The Chanel 2.55 Reissue 228 Flap measures approximately 14″ x 7.5″ x 4.25″  

What fits inside the Chanel 2.55 Reissue 227?

Chanel 2.55 Reissue Colors & Materials

One of the most common materials found on classic Chanel Reissue Flap bags is aged calfskin. This aged leather is often designed in the diamond quilted pattern, but you can also shop for Chanel Reissue bags in the chevron quilted pattern. Black leather with either Chanel ruthenium hardware or polished gold hardware is timeless. If you’re interested in learning more, visit this post that covers everything you need to know about Chanel hardware. 

Aside from the Chanel classics, there are also many different options available if you are looking for something more unique or seasonal. Other materials that the Chanel Reissue bag comes in are patent calfskin, metallic calfskin (also metallic sheepskin, metallic lambskin, and metallic goatskin), iridescent calfskin, the iconic caviar leather, tweed, suede, goatskin, printed canvas, and more. Some seasonal Chanel 2.55 Reissue bags include Lucky Charms and the Success Story set. 

Different Chanel Reissue Bag Styles

Given the iconic status of the 2.55 flap bag, it’s hardly surprising that a diverse range of 2.55 Reissue bag styles exists. Within the Chanel Reissue collection, you can explore various options, including the Reissue Wallet on Chain (WOC), Reissue tote bag, Reissue Square Flap, Reissue Camera Case, Reissue Belt Bag, and smaller accessories like the Reissue Card Holder.

Coco Chanel’s timeless quilted 2.55 redefined the way women carried their bags, ushering in a fashion revolution. Today, the Chanel Reissue continues to be a highly sought-after item within the brand’s collection of bags.

For more about iconic Chanel bags, read our ultimate guide to the Chanel Flap.