Chanel is the French fashion brand famous for quilted handbags with chain straps. Its best-known example is the Chanel 2.55, a bag designed by Coco Chanel and introduced in February 1955.
The bag combined practical features with a highly recognizable appearance. Its diamond or herringbone quilting gives the leather structure and volume, while the chain shoulder strap allows the wearer to keep both hands free. Chanel drew inspiration for the chain from straps associated with soldiers' bags and from the key chains used by caretakers at the convent where she grew up.
The original 2.55 has a burgundy lining, a back exterior flap, and a rectangular “Mademoiselle Lock.” Later versions commonly feature Chanel's interlocking CC clasp and may use leather-woven chain straps, but those details distinguish variations rather than changing the brand identity.
Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès also make famous luxury handbags, yet quilted construction paired with a chain strap is the classic Chanel clue. The name 2.55 refers to the bag's creation date: February 1955.