Last Updated on March 20, 2025 by Eve Dawes
The timeless allure of the red Chanel Flap Bag | The Chanel bag celebrities cant get enough of!
Red Chanel classic flap bags are a celebrity favorite and seem to be the next hottest color after black with so many celebrities seen toting them around from Elsa Hosk to Gigi Hadid and Rita Ora. The difference being, you can’t fail to notice this fire engine red statement bag that adds a pop of color to any outfit. Chanel red handbags are such a timeless classic and red feels so fresh and feminine but is it right for you?
This article contains affiliate links.
Celebrities seen with red Chanel flap bags
Red Chanel bags have been a celebrity favorite for decades, which just goes to show their staying power. From red Chanel classic flap bags to chevron top handle bags it seems to be one color celebrities and myself can’t get enough of. As seen on Elsa Hosk, Kirsten Dunst, Nicky Hilton, Gigi Hadid, Kris Jenner, Myleene Klass, Victoria Justice, Bella Thorne, Sofia Vergara, and Rita Ora to name a few.
Is the red Chanel flap bag worth buying?
Let’s be honest, if you never wear color or shy away from red, this is not going to be the bag for you. Also, if you wear a whole myriad of colors you might prefer neutrals like black, beige or white as that will go with more of your clothes.
However, if your style is more monochromatic, you love red or like to be able to add color to your outfits, a red purse is an easy way to give a color pop to your outfits.
Red is also one of the more versatile and timeless colors that goes with a lot more than a lot of colors do, works for all seasons, and tends to not go in and out of fashion, like something like yellow or fuchsia.
If you are going to buy red, look through your wardrobe before pulling out your credit card to make sure you actually have outfits you’ll wear it with. You can even rent one before buying to make sure you’ll actually use it.
I’d never owned a Chanel red handbag, or any red bag before, but I planned my outfits in advance of ordering it, so I knew it would get used. It’s one of those colors that instantly makes me feel more confident and feminine. I chose the medium size for it’s day to night versatility to be able to get the most use out of it.
Spoilt for choice : The iconic red Chanel Flap Bag
The red Chanel flap bag comes in either a double or single flap. Although, the Chanel classic single flap is only available from pre-loved stores now as it was discontinued in 2014. So unless you’re buying vintage or renting vintage, you’re probably going to have the double flap which honestly, I think is better anyway. As things tend to not fall out of it.
Then you have a choice of materials, sizes, shades of red and hardware choices. Calfskin and goatskin will be more durable and hold their shape better than lambskin which is glossier and more supple.
When it comes to the size, think about how and when you’re planning to use it. The red Chanel mini flap bag might be super cute but is it practical for you? Whereas, the Chanel medium flap bag is the most popular and works for both the day and night.
The handbag in the photos is the red Chanel medium flap bag, which measures 6” x 9.5” x 2.5”. It’s large enough to fit everyday essentials like a sunglasses case, wallet, phone, and makeup.
How to style a red Chanel flap bag | 10 outfit ideas
The flap bag is one of those versatile styles you can wear in various ways with everything from loungewear to gowns. I’m going to do a separate article on how to style a Chanel flap bag as there are so many ways to style it. It’s one of those styles that adds polish to everything from leisurewear, to matching coord sets and suits, and adds color to all black or white outfits. Some red Chanel flap bag outfit ideas include:
- A black, white or grey hoodie set and white sneakers for running errands.
- For a more upscale look, style with white pants, a solid white t-shirt, white stiletto pumps.
- To elevate this look add a sophisticated silk scarf.
- For an effortlessly casual chic look: White jeans, a white t-shirt and white slides or sneakers.
- A coordinated monochromatic outfit ideas: Red mini dress and black strappy heels.
- Winter outfit: A black sweater dress, belt optional, and black strappy heels, pumps or boots.
- To make the bag the focal point: A solid black t-shirt, black jeans, black boots and black leather moto jacket.
- A Black t-shirt, leggings, and sneakers for casual comfort that looks put together.
- Black dress pants, a black body, and belt works for both workwear and day to night looks. Add a blazer to make it more office appropriate.
- A simple white summer dress and red Chanel bag looks effortlessly chic.
If you’re looking for more outfit ideas and ways to style your Chanel bag, Gigi Hadid is a great source of inspiration.
Where’s the best place to buy red Chanel bags
If you’re wanting a new red flap bag, a Chanel boutique is the best place to go. Especially as most purses can’t be purchased on their website. However, if you can’t get to a boutique, an eco-conscious, money saving way to shop is either to rent, or buy a pre-owned bag. If you rent, use code DawesEve22J at checkout for $50 purchase credit
Some of the best pre-owned luxury sites include Fashionphile, The RealReal, Rue La La, FWRD, Gilt, FarFetch, and Shopbop. Wherever you shop for pre-owned designer pieces, make sure to check for things like lifestyle authenticity guarantees.
Follow
For more fashion, style ideas, sale alerts or just to say Hi.
