As we prepare our closets and wait with excitement for the upcoming Gus Mayer trunk show (May 6 & 7), we reached out to one of their trusted sources and handbag curators, Alexandra Steinberg, to gain some insight from a true expert in all things vintage Chanel. Alexandra is the Founder & CEO of Classic Coco, an online reseller that specializes in vintage Chanel accessories. She has dedicated the last ten years to bringing highly coveted and rare Chanel vintage handbags and jewelry to the market, and she gives us her unique and exclusive pointers on all the reasons why we need to be investing in vintage -and more specifically, Chanel.
HIGHER QUALITY
There’s no doubt that the phrase, “they don’t make them like they used to” still rings true today for certain items like handbags. Luxury brands, such as Chanel, were known for their high quality, handmade items that were made with 24k gold plating. Today, however, those same items are no longer handmade and they have completely omitted the gold plating. Needless to say, when you source a Chanel bag from the ’80s or ’90s (Alexandra’s specialty) you are receiving an item that has unparalleled craftsmanship than anything you can buy on the shelves today. Taking the time and money to invest in a well-made and long-lasting piece will certainly make for an invaluable asset to your collection.
SUSTAINABILITY
A current theme among many retailers and consumers is how to become more circular in the world of fashion. Vintage is a great way to establish a more sustainable closet. When you buy a previously owned item, you are taking steps toward reducing waste production. It is often hard to avoid buying into fast fashion and seasonal, trendy pieces, but ultimately, if you invest in and purchase high-quality products, the longevity and appreciation of that product are much higher than buying something quick and cheap. Overall, it will make you money while also reducing waste. It’s a win-win.
ONE-OF-A-KIND
There’s a lot to be said about owning something that not many people have. Whether it be handbags, scarves, or cars – buying vintage means that there’s a very slim chance that you’ll run into someone driving or wearing the same thing as you. And that is a feeling that is very special and unique. One of the most coveted Chanel vintage bags, according to Alexandra, is the Classic Flap but is most known as the Princess Diana bag, as it was a favorite of hers. That bag is near impossible to find as it is discontinued, but when it is found – it is worth the wait and worth every cent. When you purchase a vintage item, regardless of what it is, its rarity and one-of-a-kind aspect gives you an edge that not everyone can access.
