Chanel Tote Bags

Fashionable women worldwide pine after sophisticated yet functional tote bags for various occasions like shopping or traveling. It is simply a medium-to-large sized handbag that has two parallel handles and typically an open top. The beauty of a tote bag is that it combines practicality with style.

Chanel has been producing tote bags for decades. Perhaps the most popular was the Grand Shopper Tote or GST, a diamond-patterned quilted tote with a large stitched ‘CC’ and interwoven metal and leather straps, most popular in caviar leather. The GST was discontinued in 2015.

Chanel introduced the Classic tote soon afterward. The look is more refined and modern than the GST and other predecessor totes. The Chanel tote features a large rear exterior slip pocket, and interwoven metal chain-link and leather shoulder straps. The wide-open interior has two open pockets on the front wall and a zippered pocket on the rear. There is a leather strap and clasp for attaching keys or a small pouch to keep it secured and easy to locate. Four metal feet protect the surface of the tote’s bottom. The Classic tote bag is crafted of premium Chanel leathers, like rugged smooth calfskin and gorgeously pebble-textured caviar.

Chanel Totes for Sale

Chanel tote bags marry the exquisite craftsmanship and elegance of Chanel luxury handbags with the pure functionality of a carryall. In addition to elegant leathers, some Chanel totes are made from printed Boucle fabric, wool or even denim.

Chanel Tote Bags FAQs

What are the standout features of the Chanel tote bag?

Chanel tote bags come in an extraordinary range of styles, sizes, and materials to enhance your every ensemble. Yet each is crafted with the meticulous artisanship that sets all Chanel bags apart. From the casual Deauville shopping tote to Classic Timeless Tote, every seam and facet is perfected.

Are there different sizes of Chanel shopping totes?

Chanel shopping totes are fashioned in a vast array of sizes, shapes, and styles.  They range from the petite Once Upon The Time Accordion Tote at approximately 8” width x 6” height x 3” depth to the vintage Chanel XL Weekender Tote at approximately 18.25” width x 13.75” height x 6” width.

What are the most popular Chanel tote bags?

• Grand Shopping Tote (GST):  Classic sophisticated wear-to-work tote at a great price (for Chanel).  The GST was pure Chanel – quilted leather, stitched CC-logo, interwoven leather and chain shoulder straps and a structured base.  Unfortunately, Chanel discontinued the GST and (its little sister The Petite Shopping Tote) in 2015.  
• Cerf Tote:  Simple, elegant textured tote with removable shoulder strap. Again, the Cerf Tote was perfect for everyday wear.  It had a small CC front turnlock, a removable shoulder strap, and a removable snap-in center pouch.  It was discontinued in 2015.
• Medallion Tote: Another distinctively Chanel tote at a great price.  Named for the CC Medallion coming off the side of the bag, the Medallion tote is quilted with a stitched in CC logo on both front and back.  Discontinued in 2013.
• Cambon Ligne Tote: Part of the super hot Cambon line.  Made of calfskin leather, the bag had thin knotted handles, quilted body with corner “patch” and a large off-centered CC logo.  The Cambon bags were offered in a variety of color and the patch and the CC logo were often a different color than the quilting.  Discontinued in 2013.
• Coco Cabas: The “must-have” tote for the It-Girl.  Introduced in 2006 and discontinued in 2009, this bag captured the style of the time with its oversized, slouchy shape, chain and leather handles and oversized CC medallion.  
• Classic Timeless Tote: Sophisticated structured everyday tote. Introduced soon after the GST was discontinued, this tote has much of the same features as its predecessors in that it is quilted, structured and has the interwoven leather and chain straps.  Like the Cerf, it has a small CC turnlock closure.  The Timeless Tote is still in production.
• Deauville Tote:  Chic large tote made for travel, the beach, or a weekend away.  Introduced in 2012, the Deauville Tote continues to meet the needs of most women on the go.  The bag, made of canvas or leather, has a large CC in circle logo in between CHANEL and 31 RUE CAMBON PARIS, two leather handles and two chain and leather shoulder straps. (The small Deauvilles only have the shoulder straps.)  Chanel introduces new colors and designs each season making them collectible.  

What materials are used in the Chanel tote purse?

Chanel tote purses are crafted in several premium fabrics that enhance their durability and style. Many styles are made from lambskin, calfskin, or caviar leather. The Deauville is often rendered in canvas, complemented by leather handles and chain straps. Tweed is frequently used in seasonal releases of the Chanel totes, while exotic skins were used in some limited editions. 

How do I maintain my Chanel tote handbag?

With simple care, your Chanel tote handbag will provide decades of beautiful service. If it is made from leather, protect it from water and direct sun. Do not use leather cleaner, fabric detergents, or soap on your tote bag. Instead, gently clean the leather with a soft cloth or use a very soft-bristled brush to clean canvas or tweed. 

Before storing your Chanel tote, empty the contents so they do not leave a mark on the leather or fabric. Wrap the straps in tissue paper and tuck them inside the bag. Place the tote inside the dust cover, then store it in a cool, dark, and dry location.

Are Chanel totes a good investment?

Vintage Chanel totes have proven to be good investments and there is a strong secondary market for discontinued totes in particular.  Many are offered only in used condition and at prices that exceed the original retail price. As with all Chanel bags, proper care will enable you to resell the item at the best price in the secondary market.