Chanel Classic Flap vs Chanel Le Boy

[youtube_sc url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_9Xh9glKGY”]

Two of the most popular models Chanel makes are the Classic Flap and Le Boy.  Both are very similar yet both are much different at the same time.  In episode 29 of #AskBRP we compare and contrast the bags to see which one is a better purchase.

Similarities

The first thing I notice that is similar between the Classic Flap and Le Boy is the strap.  Both bags feature long metal chain straps that can be worn doubled up as a shoulder bag or long as a cross body.  The metal chains add a significant amount of weight but they also add a certain level of style.  Without the metal chains the bags would not be the same.

The second similarity is the way the bags are designed.  Both feature large fold over flaps as closures.  Most handbags have an opening at the top with either a zipper or snap for easy access.  The Classic Flap and Boy both must be unfolded to get inside.  Again, it makes for a beautiful looking bag but not the most practical.

Third is the size.  While the Classic flap comes in one more size variation than Le Boy, they are all very similar in size.  The Jumbo Classic Flap is around the same size as the New Medium Le Boy.  The medium Classic Flap is equal to the old medium Le Boy and so on.

Fourth, is the price.  The retail price of a Jumbo Classic Flap is $5,500 while the retail of the new medium Le Boy is $5,200.  While they aren’t identical they are very close in price.  Same goes for the other sizes.

Differences

With regards to the strap, yes both are metal chains, but on Le Boy there is an extended length of leather which makes wearing it on your shoulder a bit more comfortable.  Admittedly, neither bag is that comfortable to wear but Le Boy makes it a little more bearable with the leather portion of the strap.

The practicality of both bags is rather poor, but the Le Boy bag is just horrible.  All it has is one main pocket, which isn’t even that big to begin with, and one small side pocket inside the main pocket.  There is no organization, nothing.  It is purely a handbag meant to be admired but not used.  The Classic Flap at least has multiple compartments, a zippered pocket in the flap itself.  A few side pockets and even a small side pocket on the outside.  You can actually keep things organized in a Classic Flap.

The structure and overall feeling of both bags is quite different.  Le Boy is very stiff and does not move or form at all.  It is like carrying a brick on your side.  The Classic Flap has some give and stretches in some parts.  This is important especially if you’re someone who puts a lot of belongings in your bag.

Which one should you buy?

It honestly depends on your reason for buying it.  Le Boy is an absolute stunning bag.  There are few handbags on the market today that look better than Le Boy.  But if you’re buying something as investment you may want to look at the Classic Flap.  It has been popular for decades and only seems to get more popular.  That, coupled with the fact that Chanel is constantly increasing their retail prices, should let the Classic Flap keep or even gain in value over time.