A beautiful and very rare example of late 1980s Chanel that sits somewhere between a large bucket bag and an oversized chain tote. The soft cylindrical base gives it that bucket-like silhouette, while the long leather threaded chain straps and large quilted body make it read like an elegant day tote.
This piece comes in warm camel lambskin with classic Chanel diamond quilting and a large Coco mark medallion charm at the front. Details like the leather woven chain straps and the soft quilted construction are classic Chanel house codes that Karl Lagerfeld consistently reinterpreted during his early years at the house.
Based on the authenticity card and sticker number, the bag dates to roughly 1986 to 1988, placing it firmly in the early Karl Lagerfeld era at Chanel. During this period the house began expanding Chanel bags beyond the classic flap, introducing more relaxed day bags that still carried the key Chanel signatures: quilting, chain straps and bold CC hardware.
This piece reflects that moment perfectly. It has the softness and practicality of a large everyday bag but still carries the unmistakable Chanel visual language.
Styling tip:
I love this kind of bag when the outfit is very simple. Think washed denim and a white tank, soft tailoring, or a long coat with minimal accessories. The camel leather and gold chain pick up beautifully against both darker tones and lighter neutrals.
Era: Late 1980s (circa 1986–1988)
Material: Quilted lambskin leather
Measurements: 35cm wide, 40cm high, 24 cm deep; 40 cm handle drop
Hardware: Gold tone hardware
Made in: Italy
Condition:
Very good vintage condition with visible signs of wear, very good for it's age. The leather is buttery soft, light marks and some slightly darker wear, particularly along the base and handle pads. The padded leather sections of the chain straps show wear from use. The bag includes the matching zip pouch which also shows light surface wear. Overall the bag remains structurally strong and beautifully softened with age.
Includes:
Original authenticity card
Matching removable zip pouch
Why it made the cut:
I love finding older Chanel pieces that feel a little less obvious than the standard flap. This one has everything that makes vintage Chanel so good. The quilting, the chain, the bold CC detail but in a much more relaxed and casual silhouette. The camel leather also makes it incredibly easy to style, and the slightly oversized bucket shape feels very current again.
