Chanel Large Diamond Quilted Patent Leather Tote with Embossed CC in Black
Tote, specifically a large rectangular silhouette with a structured frame-like top. · Chanel (owned by the Wertheimer family). High-tier luxury heritage brand synonymous with Parisian elegance.
Collection: Chanel Vintage Collection, likely from the early to mid-1990s era of Karl Lagerfeld's tenure.
Style
Tote, specifically a large rectangular silhouette with a structured frame-like top.
Brand
Chanel (owned by the Wertheimer family). High-tier luxury heritage brand synonymous with Parisian elegance.
Material
Glossy patent leather with diamond-quilted machine stitching. The CC logo is embossed on a front slip pocket. Edges are finished with tonal piping.
Dimensions
Large size. Estimated Width: 35-40cm, Height: 30cm, Depth: 12cm. Strap Drop: 25-30cm for shoulder wear.
Description
An iconic piece of 90s fashion, this Chanel tote combines the house's signature quilting with a modern, glossy patent finish. The front features a large, tastefully embossed CC logo which serves as a functional slip pocket. Its spacious interior and durable shoulder straps make it a practical yet high-impact collector's item.
Key Features
Distinguishing traits include the oversized CC logo on the front panel, the high-gloss patent finish, and the rigid upper-frame silhouette which helps the bag maintain its shape.
Material & Construction
Glossy patent leather with diamond-quilted machine stitching. The CC logo is embossed on a front slip pocket. Edges are finished with tonal piping.
Color & Pattern
Classic Black (Noir). Features the signature Chanel diamond quilt pattern of the era with a contrasting matte/satin-finish embossed CC logo.
Hardware Details
Gold-tone hardware, likely 24k gold-plated (typical of Chanel vintage). Features round grommets and dual metal loops attaching the flat leather straps.
Interior Description
Typically lined in black leather or grosgrain fabric. Usually includes one zippered pocket with a gold Chanel-logo pull and one slip pocket.
Closure Type
Mainly an open-top tote design, though some variants from this era feature a central magnetic snap or a recessed zipper.
Strap & Handle Details
Dual flat patent leather shoulder straps, stitched for durability, attached via gold-tone circular rings and grommets.
Craftsmanship Details
The diamond quilting aligns reasonably well across seams. The edge-stitching on the straps and the embossing of the CC logo demonstrate the house's attention to textural contrast.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the diamond quilting is fairly consistent. The font of the heat stamp (if visible) and the quality of the gold plating are key markers. The CC logo overlapping (right over left at top) is a traditional mark.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy or France. Produced in high-end ateliers following traditional luxury standards for durability and finish.
Era & Period
Vintage 1990s. This period was characterized by Lagerfeld's bold use of the oversized CC logo and high-shine patent materials.
Age Estimate
Circa 1994-1996 based on the specific aesthetic of the oversized embossed CC logo and the 24k gold-plated hardware style.
Cultural Significance
This bag represents the shift in the 90s toward 'logomania' while maintaining the classic Parisian DNA established by Coco Chanel and reinvigorated by Karl Lagerfeld.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible creasing and surface ripples in the patent leather, which is common for aged patent. Some loss of structure at the base; hardware appears bright with minor hairline scratches.
Value Estimate
$1,800 - $2,800 USD depending on the internal serial sticker availability and the level of patent leather preservation.
Care & Maintenance
Patent leather is prone to color transfer; store away from dark denim. Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid extreme heat which can cause the patent finish to become sticky.
Similar Handbags
Chanel GST (Grand Shopping Tote) which features chain straps; Chanel PST (Petite Shopping Tote) which is smaller; or the Chanel Medallion Tote.
Interesting Facts
Patent leather Chanel bags from the 90s were popular among the 'Supermodel' era icons and have seen a massive resurgence in the 'vintage' market today.