Chanel is one of the most iconic fashion brands in the world, known for its timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship. The brand’s best-known design, the classic Chanel Flap Bag, has been a staple in the fashion industry since it was first introduced in the 1950s. Here’s everything you need to know about how it’s made.
Design and Materials
The design of the classic Chanel Flap Bag is elegant and simple. It features a rectangular shape, a front flap with a signature CC turn-lock closure, and a chain strap that can be worn over the shoulder or across the body. The bag is made of lambskin or caviar leather for the exterior and silk or leather for the interior lining, with gold or silver-toned hardware.
Cutting and Stitching
The first step in the manufacturing process is cutting the leather. Material is carefully measured and cut into the appropriate size and shape for each part of the bag before being stitched together, using a special technique that creates the quilted pattern that is a signature of the Chanel flap bag.
Quilting
The distinctive quilted leather is achieved through a process called "matelassé" in French, which means "quilted" or "padded." Here's a closer look at how this process works:
- The first step is to mark the material with a pattern. This is typically done by hand, using a stylus or marker. This defines the size and shape of each diamond-shaped quilted section.
- Next, the leather is folded and the edges are carefully aligned to create each diamond-shaped section. Then, these sections are sewn together using a needle and thread.
- Each diamond-shaped section is then padded to create a three-dimensional effect. This is done by inserting a small piece of padding – foam or cotton – between the layers.
- Once the padding is in place, the sections are quilted together. This is done by sewing a series of diagonal lines across each diamond-shaped section.
- Finally, the edges of the quilted sections are finished by trimming excess leather and sewing a binding strip around the edge of each section. The binding strip helps to reinforce the edges and gives the bag a polished, finished look.
The Chain Strap
The chain strap is an essential part of the Chanel Flap Bag, and it is also one of the most intricate components to make. The chain is made up of interlocking metal links, which are carefully assembled by hand. The leather strips that attach the chain to the bag are also cut, stitched and finished by hand.
Assembly
Once all of the pieces are cut, stitched, and assembled, the bag is put together. The hardware, including the turn-lock closure and the CC logo, is added to the bag. The chain strap is attached, and the bag is carefully inspected for any imperfections. Finally, the interior lining is added.
Quality Control
Chanel is known for its strict quality control measures, and every bag is carefully inspected before it is sold. The leather and hardware are checked for any imperfections, and the stitching is inspected for consistency and durability.
The classic Chanel Flap Bag is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. From the high-quality materials to the intricate stitching and assembly, every detail is carefully considered and executed to perfection. It's no wonder that this bag has remained a staple in the fashion industry for over half a century, and it's sure to continue to be a favourite for many years to come.
