Vintage Chanel Quilted CC Charm Chain Tote — 1986–1988, Karl Lagerfeld Era

A true vintage Chanel tote from the late 1980s, dating to the early Karl Lagerfeld years at the house. Crafted in black leather with classic diamond quilting, gold-tone hardware and long leather-woven chain straps, it has all the familiar Chanel codes without feeling like one of the more obvious classic shapes.

The silhouette is soft and roomy, with a large exterior slip pocket and a small round CC medallion charm at the front. The longer chain straps make it easy to wear on the shoulder, while the black leather and gold hardware give it that unmistakable vintage Chanel feel.

This is a genuinely vintage piece, now close to forty years old, and visually it has held up beautifully.

Details
Chanel
Late 1980s / Karl Lagerfeld era
Black leather
Diamond quilting
Gold-tone hardware
Leather-woven chain shoulder straps
CC medallion charm

Dimension: length: 32cm, height 26cm

Original authenticity card included/ Sticker present

Condition
Beautiful vintage condition overall, especially considering its age. The exterior leather still presents very well, with a lovely sheen, defined quilting and only light general signs of wear throughout.

Please note that the internal padding on the inside of the quilting has deteriorated with age. This gives some of the quilted sections a slightly crisp feel and creates a noticeable crackling sound when the bag is handled or pressed. The effect is not visible but noticeable to the touch and common with vintage Chanel bags this age. 

There is also some natural softening, creasing and age-related wear throughout, as expected from a bag of this age. Please refer closely to the images for the full condition.

Styling
I’d wear this one exactly how I think vintage Chanel looks best: not too precious. With faded denim and a white tee, an oversized blazer, or a big knit and flat shoes. The relaxed tote shape makes it much easier for everyday wear than a more structured classic flap.

Why it made the cut
I love Chanel from this period because the house codes are all there. The quilting, gold chain, black leather and CC, but the shapes feel much less predictable. This one has real age and character to it, and that’s exactly what makes proper vintage interesting.