Chanel Classic Flap Bag Size Comparison

So, you’ve finally made a decision to purchase the iconic Chanel Classic Flap bag. I can only imagine how excited you are. However, it also means that now you are faced with the three important decisions to make: the material, the color, and most importantly, the size. With an array of six different sizes (four main and 2 mini sizes) to choose from, this isn’t necessarily an easy one.

One of the most frequently asked questions about the Classic Flap that I get in my inbox is, “which size should I go for”? Since that’s a very popular question I thought I’d dedicate a separate blog post on it. Especially, that I’ve previously published a blog post on the four different sizes of the Hermes Birkin Bag and many of you found it helpful.

While specific dimensions for each of the Chanel Classic Flap sizes can be easily found online, there’s not much information out there on how the different sizes compare. In my opinion, when you are looking for handbag size comparisons, the measurements alone aren’t that helpful. To choose the right bag for your needs and lifestyle, you also want to know some practical information. For example, what fits in each size, what are the wear options and etc. That’s what I want to focus on in this blog post. And, without further ado, let’s get started!

Chanel Classic Flap Sizes

Starting up with the very basics: the size names. As I’ve mentioned earlier, the Chanel Classic Flap currently comes in four main and two mini sizes. The Mini’s have all the same features as the Classic Flap. Pretty much, the only thing they lack is the double flap.

The main sizes of the Chanel Classic Flap Bag are referred to as Small, Medium, Jumbo and Maxi, while the mini comes in two different options – square and rectangular. Here are the specific dimensions of the 6 different sizes (from smallest to largest):

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of the sizes.

Chanel Mini Square Flap Bag

The smallest bag in the Chanel Classic Flap range, the Mini Square Flap, measures 17cm x 13.5cm x 8cm (6.6” x 5.3” x 3.1”). Many refer to this bag as to the original Mini. And it’s true. The Chanel Square Mini was released in 2010, while the Mini Rectangular Flap hasn’t hit boutiques until 2016. While the Mini Rectangular Flap is pretty much like a Classic Flap, but in petite proportions, the Square Mini has more of a distinctive boxy shape.

In terms of bag’s capacity, you should be able to fit in your smartphone, a card case, keys, a lipstick and compact. On the interior of the Square Mini, there’s one main compartment and one zippered flat pocket, while the exterior features a “mona lisa” back pocket, great for some extra cash and receipts. The Chanel Mini Square Flap Bag can be worn three different ways: over the shoulder, crossbody and as a clutch (simply tuck the chain inside the bag), making it a good choice for the weekends and special occasions.

Chanel Mini Rectangular Flap Bag

Second smallest bag in the Chanel Classic Flap range is the Mini Rectangular Flap Bag. Actually, in terms of sizing, this bag isn’t much different from the Square Mini. There’s very minimal difference in measurements between the two bags. The Chanel Mini Rectangular Flap bag measures 20cm x 12cm x 6cm (7.8” x 4.7” x 2.3”). As you can see, the bag is shorter and narrower than the Square Mini. However, it does have a 3cm longer base, which means you should be able to carry longer items inside it if you wish. 

I’d say the biggest difference between the two Mini’s lies in their shapes. The Rectangular Mini has the same shape as the larger Chanel Classic Flap bags. In fact, the classic shape of the Rectangular Mini is why so many people prefer it. Similarly to the Square Mini, the Mini Rectangular Flap can be carried over the shoulder, in your hand with a chain tucked in, or as a crossbody.

Chanel Mini Square or Rectangular Flap Bag?

Now, here comes the tricky question. Which Mini Flap should you go for, Square or Rectangular? I’d say, it depends on your personal style and frame. The Rectangular Mini is a more classic choice. It’s literally a scaled-down version of the Classic Flap! However, the Rectangular Mini comes with a longer strap length (58cm or 23inches), which means it’s not a bag for every body frame out there. The same goes for the Square Mini. It has a shorter strap drop of 54 cm (21inches), so it won’t necessarily suit those on a taller side. From my personal experience, I’d say it’s best to try both bags if you can. I am on the petite side and I ended up going for the Square Mini. The Rectangular Mini looked weird on my frame. I mean, it’s a beautiful bag, but the strap drop felt a bit too long for me.

Chanel Small Classic Flap Bag

While some people have a hard time deciding between the Square and Rectangular Mini, others have a hard time choosing between the Rectangular Mini and the Small Classic Flap. Measuring roughly 23cm x 14.5cm x 6cm (9” x 5.7” x 2.3”), the bag is still on the petite side, being only 3cm longer and 2.5 cm taller than the Rectangular Mini.

For many, the deal breaker is the bag’s construction. Do you remember, I’ve previously mentioned that the Mini’s come without a double flap? The open interior is definitely a plus if you want an easier access to your items. However, the additional flap on the Small Classic Flap gives you that extra layer of security. Also, the Small Classic Flap can be worn as a single or double strap. That’s the feature that Mini’s don’t have.

Chanel Medium Classic Flap Bag

The most popular size for the Chanel Classic Flap is the Medium (also known as M/L). The Chanel Medium Classic Flap measures 25.5cm x 15.5cm x 6.5cm (9.9” x 6” x 2.5”). Not too big and not too small, it is an excellent bag for anything from running errands to nights out.

Besides keys, an iPhone, wallet and sunglasses, the Medium Classic Flap will also hold a small toiletry bag (for example, a LV Mini Pochette). A typical way to carry the bag is as a single, or double flap, but you can also wear it crossbody. However, keep in mind that the strap drop here is on the shorter side (44cm). If you are very tall, the bag might sit fairly high.

Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap Bag

Are you that girl that doesn’t leave the house without everything but the kitchen sink in her bag? Because, if yes, then you should really consider adding the Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap to your collection. Besides your typical day-to-day essentials, the Jumbo will also hold a 10” tablet, as well as a notebook, a full makeup bag and even a compact umbrella! 

Measuring 30cm x 19.5cm x 10cm (11.7” x 7.6” x 3.9”), the Chanel Jumbo Classic Flap makes for a roomy everyday bag. The bag looks great when worn over the shoulder with a single, or doubled strap. However, you may also wear it crossbody if you wish. Actually, if you are interested in the Jumbo, check out the pre-loved market. Because all the focus is on mini bags right now, larger styles like the Chanel Jumbo often sell below retail through the pre-loved sites.

Chanel Maxi Classic Flap Bag

If you are someone who travels on a regular basis, or you simply enjoy oversized bags, the Chanel Maxi Classic Flap is the one for you. Measuring 33cm x 23cm x 10cm (12.9” x 9” x 3.9”) it is the largest handbag in the Chanel Classic Flap family and it truly lives by its name.

You can throw almost everything in the Maxi Flap. Whether it is a continental wallet, or a 12” laptop, the Maxi Flap has space for it all. However, it’s important to mention that the the strap drop on the Maxi is shorter than on the Jumbo. So, it might not look as good when worn crossbody. But, the question is, would you even want to wear such a large handbag crossbody?

Chanel Classic Flap Discontinued Sizes

There was a time when Classic Flap came in seven different sizes. The smallest bag in the Chanel Classic Flap range, the Extra Mini Flap has been officially discontinued as of 2019. This bag measured just 6.6” x 3.9” x 3”. While obviously petite, the Extra Mini could fit in a card holder and a few other small essentials, making it a perfect little bag for nights out and special occasions. Unfortunately, now you can only find this cutie on the pre-loved market. I recently saw one for sale on Fashionphile for just below $3,000.

I hope you found this blog post helpful! 

Also want to know how much the Classic Flap currently costs? See the latest prices for the Chanel Classic Flap in another blog post.