Chanel’s 2.55 handbag is named for its February 1955 launch date.
The numerical name combines the month and year: “2” represents February and “55” represents 1955. Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel designed the bag, which adapted the brand’s quilted style into a practical shoulder bag with a chain strap.
The 2.55 is often confused with the Chanel Classic Flap. The Classic Flap is a later reinterpretation associated with Karl Lagerfeld, while the original 2.55 has features linked to Chanel’s initial design, including the distinctive Mademoiselle turn-lock on many versions.
Its quilted leather, chain strap, and historical launch date have made the 2.55 one of the most discussed handbags in fashion history.