Chanel Black Patent Reissue 2.55 Chain Strap Bag

This iconic CHANEL Reissue 2.55 shoulder bag in quilted black patent leather is a must-have for any fashion lover. Originally created by Coco Chanel in February of 1955 (2.55!), it revolutionized handbags for women by the ingenious addition of a chain strap, thus freeing women's hands from the cumbersome task of always holding their handbags. Karl Lagerfeld reintroduced the bag in 2005. It bridges the gap between past and present with its original features: the iconic Mademoiselle turn-lock closure, a testament to Chanel always remaining unmarried; the quilting- an homage to the quilted clothing of jockeys and stable hands- Chanel was a huge equestrian fan; the burgundy leather interior reminiscent of her Catholic school uniform, and the chain strap which apparently reminded Chanel of the keys the nuns wore. This particular bag is the 226, or Large size, in black patent calfskin leather. There are three compartments inside, a zipper compartment in the inside flap and a back compartment. There is an interior snap and the iconic Mademoiselle turn-lock clasp on the exterior. The chain strap features 24K gold-plated hardware that has tarnished in places and could benefit from being re-dipped. The only pieces that cannot be re-dipped are the grommets holding the chain strap, which have a few scratches. There are a few small scratches on the bottom of the bag. There is no dust bag. There is an authenticity card with a number matching the interior number.