Chanel is one of the major fashion brands, and it's widely known for its impeccable quality. Not only that, but they are fashion innovators, and some of their classic handbags are a prime example of that. Whether you are a handbag collector or you want to invest in a durable, high-quality handbag, you can't go wrong with their products. That does bring the question, how much do you need to pay for classic Chanel handbags? And more importantly, how do prices fluctuate for these products? Let's find out!
What's the average price of a Chanel handbag?
There are multiple models when it comes to classic Chanel handbags. The most popular one is the Classic 11.12 handbag, but there's also the Mini Classic handbag and Small Classic handbag, along with the Maxi Classic and Large Classic. The average cost of a Chanel classic bag in 2025 is anywhere from $3350 to $11700 on average. Depending on the material, color and features, you can see the price increasing quite a bit.
The Small Classic handbag is sold on Chanel's website for $10400. The Large Classic 2.55 handbag is $11700, and the Mini Classic handbag is around $5200. Needless to say, classic Chanel handbags tend to be very expensive and a sign of success for anyone who wears them. With that in mind, these bags are nothing short of visually imposing, and the materials used are outstanding, very durable.
Why are Chanel bags so expensive?
A lot of it has to do with brand recognition. Coco Chanel has revolutionized the entire industry since 1910, and the company delivers a plethora of amazing products that have become staples for their niche. The Classic Flap bag and Chanel No. 5 perfume are a prime example of that. Aside from the brand's history, we also have a great focus on quality. Bags made by Chanel are timeless; they don't follow trends, instead, they create trends that other companies follow.
Additionally, we have the cultural significance. Many celebrities like Cardi B, Paris Hilton, Lauren Conrad, Miley Cyrus, or Jenniffer Lopez wear these amazing bags every day. Celebrity support plays a major role when it comes to pricing as well. And yes, Chanel offers an exceptional in-store experience; they also create rarity when it comes to colors and features. Bags are made in low amounts, and they rarely repeat any colors. That means they generate exclusivity, which automatically ramps up the price.
How does Chanel's pricing compare with other luxury brands like Hermes?
Hermes is another major luxury brand, and they are widely known for their incredible handbags as well. With that in mind, Hermes bags can be way more expensive, especially their Kelly and Birkin bags. A single artisan handcrafts those bags, and they use materials like exotic leathers, not to mention they also have diamond-encrusted features as well. That's why it's common for Hermes bags to cost anywhere from $10000 to $500000 or more for the exclusive, very rare pieces.
How does Chanel compare with Hermes? Their prices are lower, with the starting point being in the $3000 range, and it can sometimes go over $30000 for the rare pieces. For both companies, you can find a healthy secondary market, where it's possible to access vintage, hard-to-find pieces that end up costing well over their original retail.
We should note that some of the most popular Hermes bags, like Kelly and Birkin, saw a 500% increase in value during the last 35 years. A Chanel Classic bag has seen a 230% increase in the past 20 years. That shows Hermes offers a high return, but Chanel is the better option if you're looking for a steadier appreciation.
How does Chanel compare to Louis Vuitton? Chanel bags tend to be more expensive when compared to Louis Vuitton, with the latter being seen as a more accessible luxury brand. Some LV bags, like the Neverfull are over $2000, whereas Chanel bags can end up costing over $10000 at retail. Despite that, LV bags are still very popular and can be an alternative to Chanel.
Do Chanel handbags appreciate in value?
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According to data from @super.opulent, even in the last 5-6 years, we've seen a significant price increase for both Chanel and Hermes handbags. However, between 2019 and 2024, the Birkin 25 saw a price increase of $2000, whereas the Classic Medium Flap from Chanel increased in price by over $5000.
That goes to show it's a good idea to purchase a luxury handbag, as it could increase in value. Obviously, there's no guarantee, and the resale value for used bags is lower when compared to retail. However, if you keep the bag as-new, it's possible to sell it very close to retail or even make a profit. Usually, buying luxury products can end up netting you a profit upon selling them.
Another good example of price increases is the price of the Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap bag. In 1955 that bag was $250. However, in 1990 the price was already $1150 for the same bag, and in 2009 it was close to $2700. These days, the bag is upwards of $7100, which shows this type of bags can have an upward trajectory when it comes to prices. In fact, the current price is at least 2x what the same bag was in 2009-2010!
Conclusion
There's no denying that Chanel continues to be one of the most dominant brands in the luxury handbag world. Everything from the rich brand history to the outstanding materials used for these bags and the attention to detail makes them incredibly rare and a luxury piece everyone wants to have. Are they a good investment? It depends on the model; some older models resell well over retail due to their rarity. However, when you buy a Chanel bag, you are purchasing it to showcase your status and to have a durable, high-quality bag. And that's why these bags continue to increase in price, a trend that will most likely continue going forward!