The Chanel Classic flap bag was introduced in the 1980s when Karl Lagerfeld joined Chanel as the creative director. It comes in four sizes – Small (9”), Medium (10”), Jumbo (12”) and Maxi (13”) – as well as in a Mini and Wallet On Chain. It is the most recognized handbag that Chanel produces.

The Classic is a redesign of Chanel’s 2.55 handbag (named for its creation in February 1955). Lagerfeld replaced the original Mademoiselle lock (so named because Coco was not married) with the front double “CC” turnlock closure. The Classic Small (9-inch) and Medium (10-inch) have had the same styling since they were introduced in the 1980s. The Jumbo and Maxi (formerly known as the XL Jumbo) were introduced sometime later and have gone through a few style changes and are currently designed to be larger versions of the Medium classic. The last major change was in 2011, when the single flap Jumbo and Maxi became double flap bags.

Like many of Chanel's iconic items, the design of the Classic and 2.55 flap bags is based on Coco Chanel’s childhood experiences. The burgundy lining is believed to reflect the color of Coco's Catholic school uniform. The straps reminiscent of the belts that the nuns at the school wore. The quilting believed to be based on the materials worn by the stable boys where Coco rode horses as a girl. The zipper compartment under the first flap was intended for stashing love letters (she was having an affair at the time). The half moon rear pocket was made for storing extra cash. The shoulder straps were created to enable Coco to carry a purse while leaving her hands free, to be expected of an active and independent woman.

The original 2.55 with the Mademoiselle lock was reissued in 2005 in commemoration of its 50th anniversary. It is known as the Reissue 2.55.