Chanel 2.55 Reissue 226 in Chevron Quilted Lizard-Embossed Calfskin
Shoulder Bag / Flap Bag · Chanel (Chanel S.A.), Luxury Tier. Designed by Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel in 1955, re-introduced by Karl Lagerfeld.
Collection: Reissue 2.55 Collection, Permanent Line variant with seasonal material
Style
Shoulder Bag / Flap Bag
Brand
Chanel (Chanel S.A.), Luxury Tier. Designed by Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel in 1955, re-introduced by Karl Lagerfeld.
Material
Chevron quilted Calfskin leather with a metallic or pearlescent lizard-embossed finish. Structured semi-rigid construction with machine-stitched chevron patterns and painted edge finishing.
Dimensions
Approximately 28 x 17.5 x 8 cm (11 × 6.9 × 3.1 inches); fits the '226' medium-large size category.
Description
This 2.55 Reissue is a sophisticated take on Chanel's most historical silhouette. It replaces the traditional diamond quilt with a dynamic chevron pattern and features an exotic-effect lizard embossing on durable calfskin. This version retains the understated 'Mademoiselle' lock, devoid of the CC branding, appealing to those who prefer 'quiet luxury' with an edgy, metallic twist.
Key Features
Mademoiselle turn-lock, chevron quilting, lizard-embossed texture, ruthenium bijoux chain, double flap design, and 'smiley' pocket on the reverse.
Material & Construction
Chevron quilted Calfskin leather with a metallic or pearlescent lizard-embossed finish. Structured semi-rigid construction with machine-stitched chevron patterns and painted edge finishing.
Color & Pattern
Metallic Charcoal/Black with a chevron (V-shape) quilting pattern and an embossed lizard-skin texture.
Hardware Details
Ruthenium or 'So Black' finish hardware including the signature Mademoiselle turn-lock and the 'all-chain' bijoux shoulder strap.
Interior Description
Typically lined in tonal leather or burgundy smooth calfskin with double-flap internal structure, featuring two slip pockets and a lipstick compartment.
Closure Type
Mademoiselle turn-lock closure on the outer flap and a snap button on the internal secondary flap.
Strap & Handle Details
Double Bijoux chain strap (all-metal chain without leather interwoven), capable of being worn long as a single strap or doubled for a shorter drop.
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision chevron alignment, consistent stitch count (approx 10-12 per inch), and perfectly centered Mademoiselle lock placement.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of chevron alignment across the flap, heavy weight and cold feel of the metal bijoux chain, crisp engraving on the turn-lock, and the specific texture of the calfskin embossing which should not feel plastic-like.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in France or Italy; hallmark of Chanel's high-tier atelier leather craftsmanship.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Post-2010s). While based on a 1955 design, the lizard-embossed calfskin is a modern stylistic variation.
Age Estimate
Circa 2016-2021, based on the specific leather finish and ruthenium hardware combination.
Cultural Significance
The 2.55 was the first luxury handbag designed with a shoulder strap to free women's hands, signaling a shift in female independence and functional fashion.
Condition Notes
Exterior appears Excellent; sharp structure and no visible corner wear. Hardware shows no significant plating loss. Structure is well-preserved.
Value Estimate
$6,000 - $8,500 USD depending on the secondary market availability and presence of full set (box, card, dustbag).
Care & Maintenance
Store in its dust bag with the chain tucked inside to avoid indentations on the leather. Professionally clean with specialists familiar with embossed finishes.
Similar Handbags
Chanel Classic Flap (distinguished by CC lock and leather-threaded chain) and the Saint Laurent Loulou (similar chevron stitching but different closure).
Interesting Facts
The '2.55' name is derived from the original launch date: February 1955. The 'Mademoiselle' lock is so named because Coco Chanel never married.