Fall 2005 - Focus on Purses
With the MET exhibit open, and the 50th anniversary of the 2.55 quilted purse, it is appropriate that we take a retrospective look back onto the foundations of Chanel designs. Fall is bringing us many vintage reproductions and distressed leather purses. The original 2.55 purse design (2) is being reissued (but more on that later). There are also a few other bags that will use the same leather as the reissue, as seen here in the “Square Vintage”(1). This purse is more meant to be hand carried with braided leather and chain handles. The size is comparable to the Ligne Cambon bowling bag we have seen from last season’s collection. In the line also are tote bags, all in the same colors the reissue 2.55 are available in; gray, white and black.
(3) Shown here is another vintage inspired purse with simple clasp finished in a sumptuous crackled glazed leather. Not shown, but on the Chanel website there is a cute petite pouchette with front love letter pocket being reissued from the 1960’s. Another vintage reproduction will be a line of purses with vertical line quilting with no diamond pattern. Coco herself use to carry purses with this design. (4) Once upon a time Chanel produced a studded quilted purse. Here we see it again. It is lust worthy with its dichotomy of classic and edgy. This purse is shaped just like a classic flap bag, but with only one chain strap, also available in brown.
The Paris-Tokyo collection is being released about the same time as fall collections. This collection brings us a rich and dazzling pewter colored quilted flap bag. (5) The color is so multidimensional, the leather so soft with texture to die for. It is also available in antique gold, which resembles aged brass. Metallic purses are so hot right now; you can’t miss with these purses. They actually are so much better because the colors are more subdued, making the purse less trendy, fall/winter ready. The colors are as significant as jewelry. Silver and gold just can never be passé. (6) It’s not winter with out a fur bag by Chanel. If you plan on being a ski lodge bunny, you need the very best in fur.
Regular lines such as the classic flap bag with double chain strap will be available as always. Expect to see it in black, white, gray, a rich dark chocolate brown, yellow, light green, blush, ruby, clay, and two shades of beige.
As always, there are so many note worthy purses coming out, it’s impossible to mention them all. Please visit your local Chanel boutique for a full listing of what they will be getting in stock this season.