How Coco Chanel's orphanage upbringing inspired the 2.55 bag – the iconic clutch with the chain strap that changed the world

Emotional baggage? The classic clutch contains numerous nods to Coco’s upbringing at Aubazine Abbey orphanage – from the distinctive diamond-shaped quilting to the red velvet interior

How Coco Chanel's orphanage upbringing inspired the 2.55 bag – the iconic clutch with the chain strap that changed the world

Here, we take a look at how the Chanel bag has been worn in the real world—from Jackie O. to Alexa Chung.

Visual History: 50 Years of the Chanel Bag on the Street — Vogue

The accessory beloved by women has undergone many transformations throughout history. From the pouches of the late Middle Ages to the 2.55 purse by Coco Chanel, here is the story of the handbag.

How Coco Chanel Revolutionized the Handbag

Learn the story behind Chanel’s most famous handbag designs, from the original 2.55 through to the Classic and Oh My Boy.

Chanel Handbags, The Most Iconic Of All Time, British Vogue

A Quick Guide to Chanel Flap Bags

Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel was a liberating designer whose clean-cut, simple clothes revolutionized women's fashion. Susan Stamberg explores how freedom and fashion collide in Anne Fontaine's new film, Coco Before Chanel.. Gabrielle Coco Chanel was a liberating designer whose clean-cut, simple clothes revolutionized women's fashion. Susan Stamberg explores how freedom and fashion collide in Anne Fontaine's new film, Coco Before Chanel.

Coco Chanel: The Orphan Who Transformed Fashion : NPR

Chanel's Iconic Designers: Coco Chanel & Karl Lagerfeld, Handbags and Accessories

The real story behind the iconic brand.

Why Coco Chanel's First Handbag Caused a Scandal

A History of Chanel

Janet Flanner’s 1931 Profile of Coco Chanel. “The key to her peculiar genius and its sartorial consequences may lie in the fact that Chanel, most Parisian and expensive couturier of her epoch, was born poor and in the country.”

Coco Chanel's Revolutionary Style

Had it not been for Gabrielle Chanel's rule-breaking ways, wearing costume jewellery would still be considered a faux pas and for the have-nots.

How Coco Chanel Changed The Way We Wear Costume Jewellery

Early life - Coco Chanel

The Story Behind The Famous Chanel Gabrielle 2.55 Bag - Fashion Law Journal