The Chanel 19 bag had its first unveiling in March 2019, in the final collection of Karl Lagerfeld before his untimely departure. The design could not be a more perfect legacy left behind by the creative genius of the Parisian luxury fashion house. It encapsulates the classic Chanel bag iconography, like the signature CC lock, but with a fresh and youthful twist, bringing it in line with current trends resounding with modern-day fashionistas. Unsurprisingly, the style has become an overnight sensation and is now a common feature among style bloggers, proudly clutching the latest 19 bags in their Instagram posts.
While usually I try to be reasonably measured in my responses to the hottest trends, in the case of the 19 bag, I fell under its spell very quickly. Initially, I set my heart firmly on the Light Pink one from the 20P collection, which was insanely gorgeous. But typically, they had sold out everywhere. Although I was really tempted to go for another colour just to get the bag (any bag!), with reluctance, I decided to hold off and wait for something special that would really tickle my fancy. Luckily, in the end I stumbled across a colour I instantly fell in love with, the Light Beige, which you can see in this review.
As the popularity of the design is showing no signs of waning, I thought it might be a good idea to share with you my thoughts on Chanel 19 and how I have been getting on with the bag since it joined my collection. In particular, in this review I want to focus on the pros and cons of the design, and also outline how the construction the 19 bag compares to the Classic Flap. As always, I will finish with my reflections on whether the Chanel 19 bag is an overall worthy investment.
Aesthetics
The bag shown in this review is the smallest version of Chanel 19, and is commonly known as the Chanel 19 Flap Bag.
Chanel 19 bags are available in three sizes, as well as a Wallet on Chain, so there is something for everyone. Below, you can see measurements for all currently available variations of this design (in cm):
Chanel 19 Flap Bag – 16 × 26 × 9 cm
Chanel 19 Large Flap Bag – 20 × 30 × 10 cm
Chanel 19 Maxi Flap Bag – 25 × 36 × 11 cm
Chanel 19 Wallet on Chain – 12.3 × 19.2 × 3.5 cm
The key distinguishing features of this model are the oversized quilting, 8cm x 8cm, giving the bag its distinct “puffy” appearance, and the bold, woven CC logo clasp. There is also the plaited leather and chain strap incorporating three-tone hardware i.e. gold, ruthenium and silver. And, of course, the gold-tone chain handle. The bag has a soft and relaxed silhouette which departs considerably from the structured “classic Chanel” look. At the back, there is a slip pocket with a magnetic clip closure.
The chain strap in the regular Chanel 19 Flap Bag measures 110cm in length, with a drop of circa 55cm (that is from the shoulder to the top of the flap). I am 5’5 and the bag reaches just below my hip when it sits on my shoulder. The chain is sown into the flap and it cannot be doubled-up, in the same way as the chain of e.g. the Boy bag. There is also no mechanism for adjusting its length, which is fixed.
In terms of finish, there are multiple exteriors to pick from. There is the lambskin, goatskin, calfskin, tweed, cotton jersey, denim, velvet, and even sequins. If that is not being spoiled for choice, I do not know what it! The 19 bag shown in this review is made of lambskin, which is known for being finely grained, velvety smooth and magically soft. I will explain how this type of leather affects the durability of the bag in the following section.
Aside from the classic black, the bag is available in many seasonal colours for those who want to keep up with the current fashion trends.
As for the interior, the bag is lined with a fabric. The trunk has no compartments and the inner structure is open and spacious. There is one zip-up pocket measuring approximately 19cm x 8cm, which is large enough to accommodate a mobile phone. The zip pull has the word “Chanel” engraved on one side and the CC logo on reverse.
Overall, in terms of size, finish and key features, the style does not depart much from the Chanel convention. In fact, this particular model bears certain resemblance to the structure of the Classic Flap bag and, arguably, it has been inspired by it. I will be exploring the extent of these similarities, as well as differences, in following sections. [Back to Menu]
The pros of the Chanel 19 bag
The Chanel 19 Flap Bag is difficult to dislike. The style is cool, edgy and fun, while also incorporating the timeless elements associated with the House of Chanel. It really comes as no surprise that this bag has become such a great success, because it has a lot going for it. To me, its main appeal lies in the following features of the design:
“It is really pretty!”
The first pro of the Chanel 19 bag is the eye-catching exterior. I know that taste is subjective, but is difficult not to appreciate its visual appeal because this model is a truly striking piece.
While the 19 bag has features usually linked with Chanel such as the iconic quilting, the interlocking CC clasp, and chain strap, here they are more exaggerated. Thus, the quilting is larger, the clasp more pronounced and the chain chunkier and more flamboyant. On top of that, there are also novel aspects such as the “puffy” finish and the soft, and somewhat slouchy, structure.
On paper, this may sound like a big turn off to those who gravitate towards minimalist styles. In reality, however, none of these extra embellishments compromises the aesthetic value of the bag in any way. Quite the opposite. The amalgamation of overstated features has culminated in a surprising equilibrium where none of the individual elements overly stands out. Instead, it makes the design more captivating and gives the Chanel 19 bag a distinctly modern and on-trend flair.
“The mix-coloured chain”
The mixing of metal hardware is a matter of personal taste and confidence. However, I have never felt particularly comfortable combining gold and silver, and so I tend to coordinate the hardware of my bag, shoes and other accessories. Any mismatch would bug me too much, no matter how small or how far apart the ornaments might be.
If you are anywhere as pernickety as me, you will find the multicolour hardware of the Chanel 19 bag a true saviour. The fact the 19 bag combines elements of gold, silver and ruthenium means that matching it with other accessories is just effortless. No need to dash for a last-minute change of shoes because everything you wear will beautifully blend. I cannot express how much I love this aspect of the bag because leaving the house has suddenly become so much easier and quicker!
“The presentation”
Another attribute of the Chanel 19 bag, which I really like, is the versatility of the design and, more specifically, the fact that it can be carried in multiple ways. The chain is sufficiently long so the bag can be worn crossbody, as well as hanging on the shoulder. There is also a secondary chain handle that allows the bag to be carried by hand or elegantly rest on the wrist. The bag’s trunk is large enough to accommodate the shoulder chain inside and still be usable.
I have included some mod shots, below, to give a few examples of how the bag can be presented:
By having so many different options, it is easy to create a lot of distinct looks – from the modern and trendy to the more sophisticated one. My personal favourite is when the Chanel 19 bag is carried by the short handle, with long shoulder chain swaying downwards. This completely transforms the appearance of the bag, by instantly making it more elegant, and also adding a dynamic, “swinging” element to the overall design.
“Hardware as embellishment”
The bold hardware is also one of my favourite features of Chanel 19 because it turns the bag into a real statement piece. The clasp is large, provoking and utterly transfixing. The chain of the shoulder strap has a vibe akin to that of the Boy bag (for review, click here) in that it is equally conspicuous and uncompromising, but even more so. There is nothing modest or low-key about it. The large links in contrasting colours and finish ensure that the chain always steals attention.
Aside from being striking, the compelling hardware is itself a form of embellishment. With the 19 bag on your shoulder, you do not have to worry about accessorising, because the ornamental metalware instantly turns an outfit, no matter how plain or casual, into something far more glamorous and exciting. It literally assumes the role usually filled by jewellery and other adornments. As far as I am concerned, this is a huge plus because, more often than not, I cannot be bothered with accessorising. So the fact the bag takes care of this aspect is a big win in my books! 😉
“Functional design”
The final noteworthy aspect is the construction of the model (here, I am referring specifically to the size/version of the bag shown in this review).
For a relatively small bag, Chanel 19 is very roomy and highly practical. The combination of the soft finish and generous dimensions mean that the bag is not confined by a rigid structure and there is plenty of space to accommodate personal items. As demonstrated by the fit test, below, you can pretty much carry most of your essentials without having to be terribly selective or creative with your packing:
The one feature which deserves a particular praise is the slip pocket at the back. As far as outer pockets go, it has a very decent size and is large enough to hold iPhone 11. It also has a clip for additional safety. I have always been a big fan of external compartments, but the one in the Chanel 19 bag is simply fantastic, exceptionally spacious and highly usable.
The shape of the trunk, which is wide and not too deep, is an additional bonus of the 19 bag. It is very functional and makes it easy to access and retrieve items. The only downside is the lack of inner compartments. Aside from a small zip-up pocket, there are no other partitions. If like me, you tend to overfill your bags, but like to keep the contents tidy, you may find this structure mildly frustrating. Luckily, this can be easily fixed with a bag organiser, specific for the Chanel 19 bag. These tend to have additional pockets and, thus, provide a perfect antidote to clutter. [Back to Menu]
The cons of the Chanel 19 bag
There is no denying that Chanel 19 has many good points. However, there are also a few things which have been bothering me ever since I got the bag, and so I wanted to highlight them in this review.
“Length of the shoulder strap”
The first issue relates to the shoulder strap. If there was one thing I could change about it, that would be its length. When the bag is carried hanging on the shoulder, the chain feels absolutely fine. However, when the bag is carried crossbody, the trunk sits relatively high on the hip in comparison to other crossbody styles, e.g. the Boy. In that respect, it reminds me of the Louis Vuitton New Wave Camera Bag (review here).
Below, I have included a couple of mod shots demonstrating what the bag looks like when worn crossbody (views from the front and behind):
Personally, I would feel more comfortable with an extra inch or two, especially as the trunk is quite chunky. Unfortunately, there is no option for extending the chain strap in the same way as it is the case e.g. in the Gucci Marmont bag (review here), so there is not much that can be done about it.
“Leather-reinforced chain”
The second aspect I am not too crazy about, is the leather reinforcement on the chain strap. In the small version of the 19 bag, the insert measures 20.5cm x 2.5cm, and its aim it to support the part of the chain sitting directly on the shoulder. You can see what I mean by looking at the picture, below:
While I think an elegant chain strap is the highlight of many Chanel bags, in this instance something is amiss. The thick layer of leather underpinning the iconic interwoven elements is superfluous. It makes the strap of the 19 bag look less chic when compared to the strap of the Classic Flap or the Boy bag.
The underlying strip of leather also makes it a bit awkward for the bag to stay on the shoulder. This may have something to do with my frame, but I have noticed that the bag has a tendency for slipping off. I have never experienced this issue with either my Classic or Boy bags, so I have a sneaky suspicion that the smooth and thick leather reinforcement might be to blame. Of course, it may just be the case that the strap is somehow incompatible with my body shape. Anything is possible! Still, I wanted to highlight this potential issue here as it may affect some of you too.
“The awkward top handle”
Another, slightly bothersome, aspect of the Chanel 19 bag is linked to the chain top handle. To clarify, I absolutely love the look of the handle and how functional it is. I rely on it all the time.
However, when not in use, it often settles on top of the flap in quite asymmetrical and irregular fashion. I understand that this feature aims to emphasise the modern and relaxed vibe of the 19 bag. Still, the lopsided appearance makes me want to adjust the chain over and over again, so it looks more even!
Ok, I may just be terribly pedantic, but I would much prefer if the chain handle always sat straighter on top of the puffy flap. Perhaps this would be naturally achieved had the handle been a tiny bit longer …? Luckily, it is possible to move it to the back so it is less visible, and it will not a problem when the bag is carried by the top handle. Anyway, this is just a minor point and definitely nothing to lose sleep over.
“The delicate exterior”
As mentioned in the earlier section, Chanel 19 bags are available in many different finishes. It goes without saying that fabrics such as tweed or denim are not exactly durable and need to be maintained of in order to last. Even if you opt for leather (i.e. lamb, goat or calfskin), these are, by no means, hard-wearing and susceptible to deterioration, if not treated with caution.
My bag, as shown in this review, has a lambskin outer shell which is exceptionally delicate. Although it is beautifully supple and very luxurious, it is also fragile and with a tendency for creasing and even sagging. Unfortunately, the bag’s edges are not supported by any piping and the oversized quilting is too sparse to boost the structure in any meaningful way. Thus, the leather takes the hit, quite predictably.
As that was not enough, this type of exterior is also susceptible to external factors such as colour transfer (especially the light shades), humidity as well as wear and tear caused by repeated friction. That is a lot to think about when you just want to enjoy your bag!
To preserve the leather, I have been fussing over the bag like no other. Firstly, I always use a bag liner/organiser inside of my Chanel 19 to prop up its shape and protect it from crinkling. I also try not to overload the bag, which is quite tempting considering its size. Further, when not in use, I almost religiously adhere to Chanel’s storage advice. This involves keeping the bag upright in the provided pouch with the chain strap placed inside to prevent the metal from imprinting marks in the leather. For a good measure, I also add some extra paper filler.
While all of this may help to ease my mind, realistically, it only delays the inevitable. To get any enjoyment out of the bag, I had to learn to accept that my Chanel 19 was unlikely to retain its shape in the same way as my lambskin Boy or the Classic Flap. It is just its charm, I guess… Fingers crossed that with some extra precautions, this gorgeous piece should have a decent milage, and the aging leather will be just a part of the bag’s appeal.
“The base”
Another point to bear in mind is the fact that the base of the bag is not reinforced in any way. Usually, I am not overly concerned about the base. However, in this instance, due to the delicate leather, the lack of supporting pins or protective piping means that the bottom of the 19 bag is particularly susceptible to marks and stains. This also leaves the corners and edges more exposed to wearing off.
Of course, it does not help that my Chanel 19 bag is a light shade of beige, which makes it even harder to keep the corners and the base in tip top condition. But even with darker colours, the fragile leather will not be entirely impervious to deterioration, although it will be less susceptible to colour transfer.
Realistically, there is not much that can be done to address this point, as it goes to the construction of the 19 model, other than being sensible and mindful of the surface where the bag is placed.
“The fabric lining”
The final point to note is the interior. The Chanel 19 bag is lined with a textile which matches the colour of the bag. The fabric is lovely, smooth and shiny, but also quite delicate.
Any fabric padding is inherently prone to staining and marks from hand creams, sanitisers, make up and pens. This will be particularly the case if you end up with a light-coloured interior, like the one shown in this review. However, even with darker colours, you still have to be really careful. Unfortunately, the textile used is relatively thin, so there is no guarantee that stains will not permeate into the outer leather.
This brings me to another argument in favour of a bag organiser. I have already made a case for it in the context of propping up the structure of the bag and adding extra compartments. Its role will be particularly vital when it comes to shielding the inside from marks and staining. I have been using organisers for a long time and it is abundantly clear that no other bag needs it as much as Chanel 19!
As you can see, there is quite a lot to bear in mind if you decide to invest in the 19 bag. But, I hope that my moaning will not put you off too much. I have been enjoying the bag tremendously and I am only just trying to give you my honest opinion on the few niggling issues, which have come to the fore ever since my journey with the style commenced. [Back to Menu]
Chanel 19 vs Classic Flap
One of the main reasons why I have fallen under the spell of the Chanel 19 bag is the fact that, in a way, it is a trendier and cooler version of the Classic Flap. I am a huge fan of the Classic – who is not? But sometimes I fancy carrying with me something less dressy and formal, and the 19 bag is the perfect medium.
There are some clear visual similarities between the bags. Both have the distinctive diamond quilting, but in the case of the Chanel 19 bag, the quilting is substantially larger. The fascia of the bags is also alike in that both have a frontal flap, albeit the shape of the flap differs, especially near the lock. Each design also has a back slip pocket, save that in the Classic Flap there is no clip closure to secure it.
Some parallels can also be drawn between the bags’ interiors. The most notable one is that both Chanel 19 and the Classic feature an open trunk with no dividers. Yet, while the inner structure of the 19 bag is quite plain, with a single side pocket, the configuration of the Classic is more complex. Here, the trunk has an extra layer of leather covering the front and the back, creating “a trunk within a trunk” impression, with a flap cover on top. The “gaps” between the inner and outer trunk form natural slip pockets. On top of that, the bag also has additional small compartments, one of which was specifically intended for holding a lipstick.
The locking mechanism is also comparable. While each bag has the iconic CC clasp, in the 19 bag the CC element is larger and features a decorative interwoven leather chain. In the Classic Flap bag, the entire clasp consists of metal hardware with no leather elements.
The main aspect distinguishing the Classic Flap from Chanel 19 is its overall feel. Chanel 19 has a soft and floppy structure, resulting in a relaxed and stylish, but somewhat informal, appearance. Conversely, the Classic Chanel bag is well known for its rigid silhouette with clearly defined lines, giving it its famed ultra-sophisticated look. In that respect, it is quite hard to choose between them, or say which one is the better option, because each is unique and exciting in its own way.
The second differentiating element is the chain. In the Classic Flap the iconic strap consists of a single-colour links interwoven with leather, measuring circa 1cm in width. The chain is not affixed to the bag in a static way. Instead, it is intertwined through hoops in the top of the flap, which allow it to slide, thus creating multiple ways to carry the bag, i.e. it can be doubled-up or worn as a single chain.
In Chanel 19, the chain strap is permanently attached to the bag, which means it cannot be doubled-up as it is the case in the Classic Flap. However, the way in which the chain is sewn into the flap creates an additional top handle (as shown in the earlier section), not featured in the Classic. The chain links are also more prominent, approximately 1.3cm in diameter (1.7 on the top handle) and three-tonal, which is another aspect unique to that design.
Personally, while I feel it is impossible to compete with exquisite nature of the Classic strap, the chain of Chanel 19 bag has massively grown in my estimation since I got the bag. It may not project the same aura and chic as the entwined Classic strap, but it is undeniably beautiful, stylish and fun, and for that it certainly deserves a lot of credit.
The final notable difference lies in the appearance of the lining. In the Classic Flap, the entire interior is made of leather with the Chanel logo printed onto the inner layer of the flap. Conversely, the lining of Chanel 19 consists mostly of textile, with the Chanel logo in the form of a metal plaque affixed to the internal pocket. I have mentioned in the earlier section how the fabric lining is a drawback of the 19 bag, as it provides the interior with only a limited protection. By comparison, the leather lining of the Classic Flap makes the bag far more long-wearing and resilient. In practice, this means that while I am perfectly content to use my Classic Flap without a bag liner, the very thought of not having one inside of my Chanel 19 positively fills me with dread!
While above, I tried to list the main features distinguishing the two designs, the most obvious disparity lies in the price of each piece. However, as this aspect will be further explored in the following section, I am not going to dwell on it here and, instead, swiftly move on to the concluding paragraph where I will consider the 19 bag as a long-term investment. [Back to Menu]
Worth it?
Is the Chanel 19 bag worth it? If money is not an object, I would definitely say so. On one hand, it is youthful and trendy, and should appeal to those not wedded to the idea that Chanel bags must always equate to formal elegance. On the other, it should satisfy even the discerning Chanel purists, as it incorporates elements of what would usually be perceived as “the classic Chanel look”, albeit in a somewhat watered-down version. So if you are looking for a balance between the timeless and the contemporary, and love luxury designs, Chanel 19 will be the one for you.
The handbag may also be a good choice for those who dream of Chanel, but who are not ready to splash out on the Classic Flap just yet. The 19 is notably more affordable and closer in pricing to the Boy. And, with a bit of luck, you can even pick one up at the Chanel Heathrow Airport boutique in the UK, tax free (although they sell out really quickly).
Of course, in standard terms, and even with a discount, the 19 bag is still a vastly expensive piece. However, nowhere near as costly as the Classic, especially with its regular and insane price increases. The current price difference between the 19, the Boy and the Classic in comparable sizes (as of March 2021, in the UK, all in leather finish), speaks for itself, really:
Naturally, the significant price disparity merely reflects the fact that, as a fairly new design, Chanel 19 has not achieved the same status or following as the Classic. After all, the former has been around for circa two years, whereas the latter is, undisputedly, one of the most coveted bags in the fashion world, and the unequivocal symbol of style and luxury. Still, the far more reasonable pricing of Chanel 19, i.e. a 3/4 of the price of the Classic Flap, will be a rather compelling argument to many in favour of getting the bag, irrespective of how iconic the Classic might be.
Will the model stand the test of time? For now, the longevity of the design is yet to be seen and it may be too early to say if the Chanel 19 bag will become a good long-term investment. It is perfectly likely, though. The captivating style has gained tremendous popularity in a short space of time so, in theory, there is no reason why it should not join the pantheon of Chanel icons in the future and hold its value in the same way as the other sought-after styles. Already, as seen on websites selling second-hand luxury goods, like Vestiaire, a used Chanel 19 in a popular colour can often fetch a much higher price than a brand new bag.
But while we wait to see what the future holds for the design, those determined to preserve the value of their bags might still want to opt for the Chanel Classic Flap, instead. For now, ot will be a far safer bet, but unfortunately, this certainly comes with a rather hefty price tag. Overall verdict for the Chanel 19 bag: An up-and-coming star. [Back to Menu]
© Copyright Unwrapped Fashion (2021) All Rights Reserved
Photos by Irene Pedrosa (https://asturgirl.wixsite.com/irenepedrosa) and Unwrapped Fashion
In the photos I’m wearing: Dress – Sandro Paris | Bag – Chanel 19 | Shoes – Christian Louboutin
There Are 31 Comments
Good review. Thank you
Thank you so much for the positive feedback 🥰. I really appreciate it! xx
Hi! Do you mind sharing which season your bag is from? Wondering if it’s from 20A or 20B or 20C 🙂
Hello Eva, thank you so much for visiting my blog 😊❤️🌹. I’m afraid, I’m not 100% sure about the colour, but if had to hazard a guess, I’d say 20B. In the UK, we seem to have different labelling, so the Year/Season is never clearly marked on our Chanel boxes and receipts (well… at least none of mine have it!). The full code for this style is: AS1160 B03930 N8405 (the 8405 is the colour, I think). I hope this helps ☺️ xx
What bag insert/protector do you use in your 19?
Hi Ashley! The bag organiser I use is from Handbag Angels. I buy all my bag liners from them, they are great and come in many different colours! 😊 HA can even make a bespoke one for you if you have a bag or size which isn’t listed on their website. I hope this helps xx
Really appreciate the super detailed review which helps a lot w the decision making given how expensive the bag is. I have a burnin question I hope you can address, how heavy would you say the bag is w those heavy looking chains? I hv a ysl niki bag and really couldnt bear the weight of those heavy chains, would you say the chains on this bag is about the same weight or lighter (hopefully)? Thanks heaps !!
Hi Yukie! Thank you so much for such a positive feedback! 🙏❤️😘 And I’m really glad you’ve found it helpful. In terms of weight, I don’t have the Niki bag so, unfortunately, can’t really compare… 😕. The chain of Chanel 19 is solid, but the bag itself i.e. the trunk is exceptionally light (at least in the finish I have). MUCH lighter than the Classic or the Boy. So, personally, I don’t find it heavy at all. If anything, the chain feels a bit awkward, but I have already mentioned that in my review 😉. It’s still a great bag, though, and such a beautiful piece. I’m sure you will love it! 😘😘
Very comprehensive and informative! Thanks for sharing this helpful content! Regards
Hello
I just wanted to ask a question about storage. When you are not using the bag do you store the chain on the interior of the bag and then add tissue or can chain stay outside the bag with bag sitting upright in dust bag? Appreciate your help!
Hi Jenny, thank you for visiting my blog and for the question 😊. I always put the chain inside and add some extra tissue paper as a filler to prevent damage to the leather. This may sound like an overkill, but the chain is bulky and can easily press against the extremely soft calfskin leather leading to marks and indentations. Storing the bag in an upright position can be a bit tricky because the design is really slouchy and the base is not supported i.e. it will fall over. This is why I tend to keep mine in the original box lying flat. I hope this helps! ☺️😘❤️🤗
Hello! two questions I have…
1.
Could you please let me know which number starting your 19 bag?
29xxxxx or 30xxxxx or maybe 31xxxxx???
Just to define from which year this color comes from…
2.
The color from your pictures looks like that the beige color has a big grayish tough… is it rather grayish beige or yellow based beige?
Thank you for your support and feedback in advance!
Hi Yu, thanks so much for visiting my blog ☺️.
In response to your questions:
(1) I bought the bag in 2020 and the full code for this style is: AS1160 B03930 N8405 (the 8405 is the colour, I think). Unfortunately, I don’t have any other information concerning the series/season/colour because in the UK the black Chanel handbag boxes are not labelled at all (it’s different in other countries…). The season, I believe, is 20B.
(2) The colour is a very pale shade of beige. You could say it has subtle grey undertones. Definitely no yellows. In the review, I’ve included some photos comparing the colour of my 19 bag to my Chanel Classic which definitely has warm yellow-ish beige finish. So you can see the difference there.
I hope all of this helps ☺️ xx
Hello! Thank you so much for your kindness and prompt feedback! I really appreciate it!
Regarding serial number I asked for… is the bag authentication serial number which is available on the Chanel authentication card and also in the bag (with authentication label).
Could you please let me know which number starting your 19 bag?
Only the first 2 or 3 numbers are enough to define from which season this color comes from…
(28xxxxx or 29xxxxx or 30xxxxx???)
Thank you for your further support in advance and wishing you a lovely weekend 😊
Hi Yu! My absolute pleasure and apologies, it looks like I misunderstood the question about the number 🙈. So I’ve just checked the bag/authenticity card and the number starts with 30, which corresponds to the year 2020. If you have any other questions, please give me a shout. Wishing you a wonderful rest of the weekend too! 😊🤗😘💕
Thank you so much for this very informative review! Your bag is beautiful!
Aww that’s so sweet ☺️🙏❤️. Thank you so much my lovely! 😘😘
Wonderful reviews of the bag with plenty of careful considerations and factors cover before committing to the purchase. Wonder how the bag is holding up now at this point in time in July 2022?
Hello Audrey! Thank you so much for the positive feedback, it means a lot! 🥰❤️🌹
About the question – I have just had a good look at it for you and it seems the 19 bag is holding up surprisingly well. I’m not using it every day, it’s more of a rotation bag for me, but I do not see any alarming signs of wear and tear at this point. If I had to be really fastidious, I would say that the part of the bag which shows the most use is the back pocket where I can see a couple of small scratches and maybe some very minor colour transfer (expected with the very light shade of beige). The base of the bag and the areas near corners also have a few more wrinkles compared to when the bag was new. Nothing major, though. The corners are still intact and I do not see any cracks, rips or loss of shape of the leather. So overall, the bag is holding up really well, I’m actually quite surprised how well! 😁.
I hope this helps. If you have any other questions, please give me a shout. Have a great day! 😘🤗💖
Thank you Yu ! 💓💗💖Your posting was really so very meticulously detailed down
that covered so many aspects that I for one who had earlier sworn off Chanel.19 ( sincerely it isn’t a bag that one would fall in love at first sight n I was rather skeptical at it’s lasting power originally) have now certainly changed my mind! Really happy to know that your Chanel 19 is holding up well at this point which is another added factor to my purchasing decision.🎉 Really appreciate the update n reply 💓. I will certainly check out on that Chanel 19 at my local boutique over the weekend
Looking forward to more of your exciting and well thought through write ups along with the recommendations of other purses. Wonderful n Blessed Weekend ahead ☺️👍
Awww thanks so much my Lovely! 🙏💖🌸 Glad I could be of some help with my little post ☺️. I’m sure you won’t regret the purchase if you decide to go for this style. Of all my Chanel bags, I’ve been using the 19 bag the most and, like you, I wasn’t entirely convinced at first. Wishing you a lovely weekend and thanks again for visiting my blog! 😘😘🤗🤗
Thanks for the very valuable info.
Black with Silver handle is now available yr2022. I think the gold handle is outstanding but might prefer the understated look of a silver handle.
Also, the Silver handle should look better with my white Dior sneaker. Your thoughts, pls.
Hi EveLin! Thanks so much for visiting my blog and apologies for the delay in replying to your comment. Yes… I’ve seen the new version of the 19 bag with the silver chain handle. It is absolutely gooooorgeous!! 😍😍 Not everyone is keen on the in-your-face, gold hardware so it is good to have a different option, something lower key. I’m not surprised you like it ❤️😊. Which colour bag are you thinking of buying? I’m sure whichever hardware you choose, it will match your Dior trainers. One of my favourite aspects of Chanel 19 is that it goes effortlessly with both casual and elegant looks. Have a lovely day! 😘🌹🤗
Wow such a helpful comprehensive review. I fell in love with this bag however I bought my classic one just 2 yrs ago in black and I must say if I had the option then I would purchase channel 19 as it’s more practical. I still have the option to get it in diff color, your bag color I guess nude is beautiful but unfortunately it’s unavoidable in Canada 😢
Aww thank you so much for this lovely feedback, Bann 🙏💖🌸. A black Classic Chanel is such an icon so I am sure you will never regret buying it 🌟. About the 19 bag, the beige leather may return in future collections so best to keep an eye on it. Even if you opt for a different colour, I have no doubt you will end up very happy. It’s a great looking bag, you can wear it in many different ways and, as you say, very practical. I hope you can find one you like 🤞. Have a great day! 😘🤗
Hello,
I recently purchased the Chanel 19 black, with silver hardware.
Do you believe this was a hood investment piece? / An item that will last years to come?
I am 32 and lead a very casual lifestyle. I always prefer bags that are very versatile. The Chanel 19 seemed to offer some form of variety; such as wearing the bag cross body and on the wrist. I have watched some YT videos that say this bag will not stand the test of time. Which makes me question my purchase. This was one of the first Chanel bags I fell in love with, in addition to the traditional black with gold hardware WOC. I don’t follow trends, I always go with items that make my heart sing. However, with it being a steep price (for me anyways) I get nervous that in a few years I may just look silly carrying it around.
Please share your thoughts..
With Warmth,
Sabrina <3
Hi Sabrina!
Thank you so much for visiting my blog 😊.
You are not the first person asking me this question. I totally understand your concern, though. Chanel bags are very expensive and no one wants to spend that amount of money on something that might go out of fashion soon.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to say what Chanel has in store with regard to the 19 bag, so anyone’s opinion is only a guess. Personally, I would like to think it should be around for at least a few more seasons. Chanel started limiting the sale of Classic bags – which are also becoming prohibitively expensive at this point – so more people will be reaching out for other, similar designs. The 19 bag is a close substitute and more reasonably priced too. On that basis alone, I would imagine the sales of the design should increase in the future. I may be wrong, but why would Chanel be dropping a bag which has become immensely popular and drives them sales? They are a business after all!💰
Anyway, that’s just my opinion. Plus, I may be biased because I really, really love the Chanel 19 bag and I hope it will be around a bit longer 😁🤞.
If you are concerned about not being on-trend, you can always consider selling the bag in a year or so, while it’s still hot, and buying something else instead. But it is such a great bag, I do not see why you would want to do that. I really would not worry about what other people have to say and just enjoy it, because I’m sure you will! ☺️ The black version of the 19 with the silver hardware is beautiful, by the way!! 🖤🖤
Have a great day! 😘🤗🌹xx
Thank you, my love! I really do appreciate you taking the time to reply!
I read through all of the comments and your entire post prior to submitting my questions / concern.
That is semi my thought process, to just enjoy it even when and if it’s gone out of “style.”
I do have a couple of weeks to contemplate and potentially even return if I decide against it. Wah 🙁 lol because I really do love it.
Again thank you for your thorough and prompt response.
I appreciate you.
Best,
Sabrina 🌻✨
Aww, you are most welcome my lovely 😘 🌺. Although, I’m not sure I was of that much help lol!
Waiting a little before making the final decision may be the right approach. But I have a feeling that once you start using it, and start getting all the compliments (be warned – the bag attracts a lot of attention! 😍) you may find it rather hard to let go of your new, gorgeous baby 👜🌟.
I’d love to know what you have decided to do in the end!! 😃😘🤗 xx
Thank you for writing this piece. So informative and helpful in deciding if I should go with the Chanel 19 or Reissue as I already own a few Classics.
Do you think the goatskin would be a better option to the lambskin in terms of durability as I am not one to baby my bags!
I would however get a bag insert as per your advice to hold the shape, although, I don’t do this with any of my other bags 🤣
Thank you so much and you’ve definitely found a new follower in me.! 🙂
Hello Lovely!
Thank you so much for visiting my blog and I am so glad you have the post helpful 🙏☺️💕.
If you are deciding between the goatskin and the lambskin, and durability is a main factor, then the former may be the better option. I know that some people prefer the soft and supple leathers, like lambskin or calfskin, because they look and feel fabulously luxurious. However, they may not necessarily be ideal if you intend to get a full use out of your bag, at least in my experience. I definitely have to baby my Chanel 19 and there is no way I could take it out when it is raining, for example (the very light colour does not help either!🙈). So I think it is worth taking into account your lifestyle, how you intend to use the bag and the climate, before making the final decision.
I hope you find your perfect Chanel 19🤞😊. Ultimately, whether you opt for lambskin or goatskin, you will absolutely love it because it is a fantastic bag!
Have a great day! 😘🤗🌹