As the epitome of luxury and timeless style, Chanel creates some of the world’s most coveted handbags, attracting devoted collectors willing to invest in its iconic designs.
Chanel is known for its timeless handbags, crafted from luxurious leathers that collectors can’t get enough of. From buttery-soft lambskin to ultra-durable caviar, each finish offers something unique. While some Chanel lovers swear by the elegance of lambskin, others prefer the resilience of caviar for everyday wear.
With so many leathers and finishes to choose from, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the most popular Chanel leathers so you can find the perfect match for your style.
Lambskin Leather
Lambskin leather is known for its luxurious softness and smooth texture, offering a sophisticated sheen. It has a delicate nature, making it prone to scratches, but its refined appearance makes it a favourite for elegant bags.
Caviar Leather
Caviar leather features a pebbled texture that not only looks chic but is also highly durable. Resistant to scratches and easy to maintain, this leather is perfect for those seeking a stylish yet practical option for everyday use.
Calfskin Leather
Calfskin leather strikes a balance between softness and durability, making it versatile for various styles. Variants like aged calfskin have a vintage look, while glazed calfskin offers a polished finish, and iridescent calfskin provides a shimmering effect.
Goatskin (Chevre) Leather
Goatskin leather, or chevre, is known for its toughness and soft feel, with a fine grain that adds a touch of luxury. Its durability ensures that bags retain their shape, making it a great option for everyday wear.
Patent Leather
Patent leather is characterised by its high-gloss finish, giving bags a striking, shiny look. While it’s water-resistant and stylish, it can be susceptible to fingerprints and colour transfer, requiring careful handling.
Tweed Fabric
Tweed is an iconic woven material that showcases Chanel’s heritage, often featuring bold colours and patterns. Its durability makes it a fantastic choice for unique bags, but care is needed to avoid snags.
Jersey Fabric
Jersey fabric is soft and casual, providing a laid-back aesthetic that’s perfect for everyday bags. However, it can be prone to pilling and stains, so professional cleaning is recommended to maintain its appearance.
Velvet Fabric
Velvet offers a plush and luxurious feel, making it a standout choice for special occasions. While it exudes elegance, it requires gentle handling to prevent wear and stains, so it’s best reserved for more formal events.
Exotic Skins
Exotic skins like alligator, crocodile, python, and galuchat (stingray) were once popular for their unique textures and stunning appearances. Although Chanel discontinued the use of exotic skins in 2018, they remain highly sought after in vintage collections.