Let’s Talk Chanel... Will You Buy New? Preloved? Or Walk Away? (I Share My Raw & Unfiltered POV)

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Late night video sharing my POV following today’s Chanel price increase. It’s raw and unfiltered and a bit all over the place 😅 but I hope you will find it to be interesting and thought-provoking. Please join the conversation with your own thoughts by commenting down below ⬇️ ! As always, thanks so much for watching. 😘

[@domino2367]

Completely 💯💯💯👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 agree with you: pre loved 🥰 market is definitely a very good 👍🏼 road to go for Chanel classics flaps especially just after this tremendous price increase which honestly is not justified to me in any possible way. Thanks 🙏🏻 for sharing Dear! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🥰🥰🥰💯💯💯💕💕💕💋💋💋

[@hellocatwalkcity]

@@domino2367 Thanks Stefania! 💕 I’m glad we all have the preloved route as another option. 😉

[@domino2367]

@@hellocatwalkcity 🍀 luckily 🍀🍀🍀 yes 🙌 and hope 🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻 it will remain like 👍🏼 so! All the best to you my Dear and wish you an excellent 👌🏻 4th of July 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 celebrations 🤗🤗🤗🤗🥰🥰🥰💕💕💕💕🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🍀🍀🍀🍀

[@viajandoimigrando388]

Everybody talks about manipulation, etc. Any person who understand the financial world knows. What happened to rich people in this pandemia? They got richer, who are the real costumers? The rich. They saw all this and would not profit from it? I do not like the increase, but guess what? I will continue buying it.

[@meredithmilazzo9335]

Excellent video. Watched twice & your single flap unboxing, as I want a jumbo but concerned about weight. Just received an excellent condition single flap like yours from FASHIONPHILE, but still want to compare to the double flap jumbo. Please help!

[@e.yotter5499]

Minks4all shared a comment she got on Instagram which stated LV wants to be Chanel; Chanel wants to be Hermès; Hermès wants to be God and no one wants my peasant money. I felt this on another level. 😂😂

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Oh my gah 😂

[@lindawasserman1379]

Thank you for sharing your experience (from a couple of years ago) with buying a new MCF black in Caviar leather. Your videos are so valuable and informative. You opened my eyes to what to watch out for since the last time I purchased Chanel in a boutique was more than 15 years ago. Recently, I decided to make an appt. at my local Chanel boutique to purchase my “holy grail” new MCF black in Caviar GHW before a big birthday (as I always planned). I was presented a new MCF with the weird flip-up exterior wing flap and an interior flap with a difficult to close press button. Another boutique offered a MCF with air pockets in the lining, which I would never have checked for if I had not seen your videos, and scratches on the GHW turn-lock. I did not realize these defects until I brought both bags home. After returning both bags, I expressed that I am still interested in a MCF. To my disappointment, I was informed that if I attempt to purchase another MCF black Caviar GHW in the future, I may not be afforded the privilege (1) buying it as it appears that I am purchasing multiples of the same bag and (2) of returning a 3rd MCF as I had already return 2 MCF bags, even if my returns were due defects. Chanel is treating the defects that I encountered and you highlighted as just our “perception & not reality” because Chanel can turn around and sell both MCF bags I returned to other customers who are happy to buy them the same day. I feel a bit of a kinship with you as I now feel very turned off by Chanel and I am entertaining the idea of going the pre-loved route just as you did.

[@makeupnmedicine]

Walk away. Priced out. RIP to my Chanel dreams

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Walking away from one thing, opens the door to another. 😉

[@annevchen]

A couple of thousand more we can buy a Birkin which is entirely handmade from A to B. If Chanel want us to pay the increase price make the whole bag entirely by hand.

[@hellocatwalkcity]

It’s so funny bc some SAs still tell customers that the bags are handmade and we all know this simply isn’t true. 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@annevchen]

@@654ujala any luxury brand can charge whatever they want, if that’s their prerogative then so be it. If the consumer wants to pay that price fine after all we are paying for their name. What I don’t appreciate with Chanel is selling goods that is defective, not quality checking it before it heads to the boutique. For example, I bought a so black small reissue and I had go back and exchange it 3x because the stitching was loose and was not properly closed. IMO if you want to charge x amount, QC consistency and the price go hand in hand.

[@annevchen]

@@654ujala you do got a point there, that’s why I QC at boutique before buying at any boutique. At this point, I will choose not to buy any Chanel unless I can justify buying any of their bags.

[@annevchen]

@@hellocatwalkcity that is very true, my SA still say it’s handmade. They should say 1/2 machine and 1/2 handmade.

[@littleluxuries_01]

I don’t have a Chanel bag but it was my dream bag for a long time. However when I checked out the bags in person, I was underwhelmed! It’s bad enough that the quality isn’t getting better, but I personally think the quality was never there (as much as I love the styles!). For example the plastic zips they use - I just don’t understand that! They feel and sound cheap 😔 I have no issue with the price increase, because ultimately Chanel is a business and so if they can make money (bearing in mind this is a nice to have luxury, not an essential resource), they have the right to increase the price. If a classic flap was

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Thank you for sharing your POV! 👌

[@shakky3533]

I think at the rate of these increases a majority of people will be priced out even pre-loved. Only the really wealthy will be able to be afford them because most salaried people are not receiving raises or promotion at the same rate of these increases.

[@phoebemirar9718]

Just walk away and enjoy whatever bag you have. It’s not the end of the world. I don’t go anywhere anyway. Like now I took I week off because it was my birthday I bought a Loewe Small Hammock bag and the LV Papillon Monogram Trank. Now it’s LOCKDOWN in Brisbane Australia. I can’t even go out to celebrate and wear my new bags. So those people who are so upset with the price increased, just move on!

[@CleanChic]

Amen !!! 🙌🏻

[@tanyawilliams138]

Thank you for this video because you really shed some new light on buying Chanel.

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Thank you so much for the feedback!

[@YosheaLux]

It’s not worth it for me to pay so much the classic due to the fact that I’m more an LV girl. Don’t get me wrong. There are some bags that I do want. I just purchased one on June 30th. But not a classic bag. I will do x as video in it soon. I so agree with what you said.

[@hellocatwalkcity]

How do you feel about the LV price increases?

[@nannariis3985]

Damn and I bought my preloved medium classic flap in black caviar 6 months ago for 4700.. So happy I jumped on it when I did!

[@hellocatwalkcity]

People will be saying the exact same thing about the $7800 med classic flaps in just a few years. 😂. This is the point I tried to make in the video.

[@syeungy]

I like your POV, we should only shop within our means no matter what the price is. I also think that yes it would have been great to purchase it 10 years ago, but I didn’t even have that amount of money 10 years ago so i can’t say ‘I should have bought it then’ 😂

[@25mariec]

Definitely buy new if it’s my very first Chanel bag which I did by the way. For the succeeding bags, I don’t mind buying pre love if it’s really rare to find.

[@CarolCroke]

Yeah a CF has been on my list but other life priorities have been ahead of it till now. After last increase when flap went from €5500 to €6050 I said that’s it I’m out. In last month or two I’d come around to €6050 and said to myself just get one, decide on hardware &leather and go for it. Now with €800 price increase I’m thinking again, do I want to pay that. What does that price increase equate to, new pair of glasses, new wallet, shoes or boots etc I could get a LV Capucines & a Pochette Metis and probably have enough left for a new winter coat for price of CF now.

[@hellocatwalkcity]

I hear what you’re saying yet I feel if you calculate what you can buy INSTEAD of a Chanel classic flap, you’ll never quite feel it’s worth it. I think the best way to think about it is, whether or not you’ll love it and enjoy it in a way that another purchase may not give you joy. Hope that helps! xx

[@caroliegeorge]

Amazing video per usual.. thank you so much ❤️

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Thank you so much Carolie! 💗

[@yummylife8984]

You are absolutely right. Technically I can right now go and buy a bag. But! Now I am thinking...is it really worth it? If it is a big big big dream - of course I spend even more! But definitely it is not... :) because I am a bag lover, not logo lover. I have Chanel pieces, and may because of my dream is changed :)

[@hellocatwalkcity]

“Bag lover, not logo lover” 👏

[@kateb2240]

I have been buying Chanel classics from the 90s and early 2000s for 4 years. I went to buy a brand new mini 2 years ago in the boutique in London. I walked away when i got my hands on it. The quality was nowhere close to my older bags. So for me, the value has been missing at Chanel for a while. But for me, its all good. Every ridiculous price rise at Chanel adds more equity to my 7 vintage bags

[@hellocatwalkcity]

7 vintage bags, wow! Lucky you! 😊

[@tippytoe1250]

I have enough Chanels in my collection already. I have jumbos, meds and minis. The prices are just unjustifiable these day for me. So I will not be adding anymore and I’m okay with it. Actually I think I’m done adding to my bag collection period. Already have the Birkin and Kelly also.

[@ashfitrn]

Sounds like an amazing collection 🤩

[@Acct846]

I’m happy with my vintage classic flap with 24k gold that I got 2-3 years. I can afford a new one. Just not worth for $8000 price tag

[@maryantoinnettechang4011]

Hi! Love watching your chanel. Do you have mod shots of all the bags? And is the mini square in gold really nice?

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Thank you! Pls check my Chanel playlist. I’ve got a bunch of different videos where I share mod shots - they’re just not all in one video. 💕

[@kathyd85]

I’m glad I got the wallet on chain in the Fall. As much as I like this fashion house I think I’ll be admiring from a distance 😄💕

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Oh nice! Love the WOC! Enjoy yours! 💕

[@minipleasures96]

i am glad that i bite the bullet and got my vintage small Chanel flap

[@Adancer112]

Totally agree with what you said in your conclusion. So true and wise and on point. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I feel similarly. P.S. Any chance of an update on the metallic mini? I’m curious about the leather, the square shape and anything else you wanna share :)

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Aw thank you! Yes! I will be sharing a full review on the gold mini square with mod shots and details later this month. Please stay tuned! xx

[@Adancer112]

@@hellocatwalkcity Oh, I can’t wait! Thank you! I’ll start praying for self control now because that cute mini already has me 😍😍😍

[@BoywithLoveeee]

I wanted to have at least one Chanel item but with all these price increases makes me stop wanting it. You’re right miss, it’s not about being able to afford but the fact that they increase the price in ridiculous amount. For people who are trying to save to buy their dreamed bag, I recommend to open a card that has 0% apr for a year or more for instant Bank of America cash reward.

[@FM-xg8oq]

Ever since I saw your vintage piece and you spoke of how buttery soft it is I wanted and finally got one! I got a tall medium classic flap from 1990 and I think a great price (although last year I think they were prob half the price!)?but I’m thrilled to pieces and it is only missing the dust bag but since I got it from fashionphile! They gave one! It has corner wear but other than that sooo cool and suits my frame more like a jumbo would !

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Very nice!! Enjoy your vintage beauty! ✨

[@bbabybchild5725]

Comments here saying “buy a Hermès bag instead” however you just can’t buy a Kelly or Birkin, you have to buy all the other things before being offered one of these bags, or again, buy pre-loved. I love Chanel so if I see a bag I love, I’ll continue to buy. I agree, it’s only a bag, therefore I don’t get stressed out about these price increases- all the luxury brands have been doing price increases, so this is not a surprise. Their sales will not decrease because those who can afford will continue to buy.

[@hellocatwalkcity]

You make a great point, PLUS many Chanel lovers don’t even like Hermès so I think it’s weird to keep comparing. The design and aesthetics of Chanel are VERY different from what Hermès offers.

[@ImenBen12]

literally wrote a very very similar comment on another post. Im not sure why people keep saying buy Hermes as though Chanel is a trend (which it absolutely is NOT) and as though you can rock up to an Hermes store and buy a K or B, preloved Hermes is very expensive anyway!!

[@ImenBen12]

@@hellocatwalkcity agreed! Im a big Chanel lover, and while I can appreciate the look of B, K and Picotin, its just not for me, doesnt make my heart sing the way Chanel does.

[@robinpevlor8274]

I have several designer handbags . Chanel will never be on my radar. Too many other bags to choose from with a lot better quality. Maybe it's because I am older and not willing to be sucked into the Chanel hype. The price is stupid. Not smart.

[@elainetrof2001]

I don’t have a Chanel store near me so I have to buy preloved, but I try to check prices on line before I buy. I only buy what I can afford. My second edit the mini squares are usually lower than the mini rectangular also you are right about the caviar versus lambskin

[@AlishaRicki]

Those maxi and jumbo prices are NOT good. You can find better on Fashionphile or smaller consignment shops.

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Yes, exactly.

[@yummylife8984]

All people are happy who bought their bags earlier:) thank you for video ♡

[@samarmorsi]

Price increases are due to more people buying & they need to keep it a luxury brand .. however many ppl buy bc they want to resell to make money not bc they love the bags & luxury brands will keep increasing their prices to keep the brands exclusive

[@catnip4587]

I’m into preloved but often priced above new retail. I would never buy a bag that I could not pay for in full No monthly payments with high interest rate. Fashionphile prices are ridiculous. Do your research before buying

[@hellocatwalkcity]

💯 💯 💯

[@ashfitrn]

Sometimes they have deals. Put in items you are searching for. Yes some of their prices are straight disrespectful. Some of their offers (when selling items to them) are disrespectful and low. I have had issues with them but I have been able to find a deal on Chanel flap xxl bag. Be careful with fashionphile layaway (reserve). If you change your mind, there is a 10% return fee.

[@catnip4587]

@@ashfitrn I have had 2 good experience with Rebag. But recently noticed increase in price. It’s always fun on whatever website to try to find the great deal. Like a treasure hunt

[@ashfitrn]

@@catnip4587 right I be stalking items waiting for the price to drop 😂

[@sharonozvenom]

Increase in Australia has been small as we had the huge increase early last year .

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Makes sense. Chanel keeps stating they are trying to globalize prices for consistency. Here in the US, we had an increase earlier this year and now this again with double-digit increases. 💀

[@VVV-mz4tc]

Great video, always very thorough! I don't know with these Chanel bags. I've never been a 'Chanel-girl', it was never my dream. But the Reissue is gorgeous, so I really would like one, but because it's you know - not my dream bag or something (I already have my dream bag), why would I invest that much? But I still really 'want' it (but I also 'want' a Kelly, so I don't know...) Difficult... Also, it's just bags at the end of the day...

[@hellocatwalkcity]

The reissues typically don’t hold their value on the resale market so you can definitely find one well under retail price if you look. But if you’re not a Chanel girl, don’t bother - spend your money in ways that will make you happy! 😉 💕

[@debm9413]

You’re not technologically challenged. I have the same problem on Fashionphile trying to scroll through their different images on a bag. Good to know it’s not just me!

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Good to know I’m not alone! 😂

[@lidiaszaflarski-saidi3046]

Hello. After seeing your video, and other ones too, regarding the anticipated huge Chanel price increases I checked the UK site yesterday. A small Chanel 19 bag has gone up from £4130 to £4210...so a £80 increase. Not too horrific! A medium classic flap has gone up from £5550 to £5890. A fair amount but not 15% as was reported. The rectangular mini flaps have not changed in price nor have any of the SLG's yet. It seems in the UK and Europe the price increases have not been too painful. My SA in Chanel, Harrods has not answered my message for several days because it has been SO busy for him on the shop floor. Looks like there was a lot of panic buying going on before the price increase deadline!

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Indeed, it seems the increases are varying from country to country. Perhaps this goes back to Chanel’s statement that they want to “globalize” prices and make them more consistent worldwide 🤔 ... but here in the US unfortunately, the 15% hikes are real.

[@BienDalumpines]

12.5% increase is so much! And chanel quality is going down as well☹️they try to compete with hermes Berkin & Kelly

[@sabrinag3357]

I’m walking away. I’ll never be able to afford a Chanel classic flap in red. I decided to order the Karl Lagerfeld Agyness bag in the color Classic Red from Dillard’s and I adore it. Although it’s not a Chanel bag, I still love that Karl Lagerfeld is the designer of the bag. And it is much more affordable. And still gives me Chanel vibes without the label or price tag. Thank you for sharing. I always love hearing your point of view. ❤️❤️

[@fifilapoof7490]

Thank you for sharing your info about the Karl Lagerfeld bags. They sound like a great alternative.

[@sabrinag3357]

@@fifilapoof7490 You’re welcome! It is a lovely alternative. It’s also nice to know that I own a bag by someone who was the creative director at Chanel for many years.

[@sheilaiverson4256]

Walk away, I’m just as happy with my other brands like Givenchy and Prada

[@Roseycheeks86]

Purchased a classic caviar medium preloved before price increase. That’s the only Chanel bag I have and probably will be unless i triple my income. I purchased the black caviar medium classic flap in store before the price increase and immediately consigned it. When I collected the bag, it didn’t give me the excited feeling that I thought it would. In 2010, I earned minimum wage so couldn’t have afforded the price back then

[@pamelarosecastanos3691]

Sometimes expectation is higher than reality. I always feel that too. I imagine and dream of the day I’ll get a bag, then when I do, nothing. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@patkuykendall-weeks2617]

I got my Classic Medium Black Caviar Leather Double Flap bag 12 years ago. Would pay $8k today knowing how much wear and joy I would get from the bag!

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@emlinacali1769]

The woc price is still the same on the UK site yet the classic flaps have gone up 🧐

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Interesting. Seems it varies by country.

[@chrystinewu1072]

Love your Chanel collection, you definitely collected the most classic style/color in the classic flap collection. I bought my reissue mini in black/gold fright before the price increase (without knowing the price increase at the time of purchase). I also own a classic medium and a woc . Quite a small collection but I’m so done with Chanel bags. I will switch to their small leather goods instead. Their SLG price is still affordable and you get to collect the seasonal pieces without breaking the bank. 😜

[@fashionismypassiongirl660]

Great video! 😁👌🏻I always enjoy watching your videos and your Chanel bag collection. 🥰 I have 4 Chanel bags and I absolutely love them all. They’re more on a vintage side but in pristine condition. One bag in particular stands out to me is because I got it for only $150 which is a steal. You might think it’s fake but it’s not. I don’t support, own, buy or like fake anything!!! About 17 years ago I had a friend working for Chanel on 57th, NYC and he got me pink caviar bag on sample sale. Otherwise it was much more in the store itself. So, to see how the prices rise it breaks my heart to buy a new bag for so much money. I do cherish my bags now more than ever! Especially knowing how little money I paid before. If I’d sell now, I’d probably get ten times more. But I won’t. I’ll enjoy my 4 bags and you enjoy yours! ❤️💐😁

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Amazing!! You keep enjoying those gorgeous bags of yours!! 💕

[@fashionismypassiongirl660]

@@hellocatwalkcity 😊😊😊thank you, darling!

[@lindseyr7115]

I think price increases every quarter by Chanel is excessive…. I understand every year things should go up… but it’s out of control with Chanel right now. I totally agree with not paying 8k for a rectangular mini. That’s just Fashionphile taking advantage of supply and demand. I’ll forever be a Chanel lover though. Great video xoxo

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Well said! 👏

[@__sj.diary__1167]

I love your videos very informative and true 🥰

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Thank you so much!! xx

[@carrieod1380]

If the quality was also going up I would continue to buy, but the craftsmanship is not good enough to warrant that increase.

[@vsegador]

I'll just be resigned to the fact that I'll never have a Chanel bag. I even can't justify to buy a 30 year old bag for AUD $6700. It's just ridiculous. At the end of the day, they're just bags. If you are looking for an investment, there are other ways. If you're looking to own pretty, expensive things, there are also other things you can look into.

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Chanel bags are NOT “investments” as some people like to call them.

[@CleanChic]

I’d say for the excessively rich ppl this won’t be a problem. But for ones that the increse likely ruin their savings, then move on. A lot of other pretty bags outthere. And when we walk outside I’d say not everybody into bags. They just: “OH CUTE BAG”. That’s it. So Relax.. 🧘🏻‍♀️ It’s not the end of the bag (world) lol

[@Divatologist]

I really do want a classic double flap. I won't say I'll never get one. This price increase is understood but, the quality isn't increasing. I could understand if we could compare the quality of the bags we have today with those from years ago. Their bags are not handmade. There's nothing "special" about the creation of each bag. I don't know. I still want one. I think I will have to suck it up and just get one. Ugh! That much for a bag though 😒 I want one so bad! 😭

[@ashfitrn]

I know it’s crazy right. I bought a maxi flap years ago. Now the medium flap cost more than what I paid. Makes my stomach hurt with the increases. Now I wish I would have purchased many bags years ago. I’m content with my handbag collection. I still love diamonds though 😭

[@christine_songbird7226]

I’m glad you made this video, I think your words on this subject are important for others to hear - in particular your thoughts on some of the comments people make. Very thoughtful and comprehensive as usual!

[@hellocatwalkcity]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video! xx

[@ginamorris4520]

I see the beauty and history in Chanel bags but thank God it doesn't make my heart sing🤣. I'm crazy about a few LV canvas bags, the Speedy particularly and I'm good. I went thru the FOMO and every youtuber have these crazy collection from diff houses and I reach a point where in my mind I need to have at least 1 chanel bec I already have LVs and I don't think I can ever afford an Kelly bec I don't like the Birkin anyways lol. I watched minimalism vids while living vicariously thru luxury youtubers 🤣 and when all the excitement subsided, I'm all happy and contented with my small LV collection. The canvas is light,sturdy and less maintenance for my travels. I went to Paris Samaritaine and enjoyed all the eye candy and it's too much bags to go after if you go that rabbithole.

[@socobbb]

The new Chanel guarantee of five years, affects my decision on buying Preloved. Chanel will not touch bags without. Proof of purchase. At the same time, that concerns me because thst means that it may affect the resale value of the bags I may want or need to sell in the future. I was willing to pay the prices, because Chanel is like a guarantee that you money is safe. But know, them trying to fight the resale market may affect how I look at the value of the bag. If the bag loses its resale value, there is not way in hell it is worth that much money. It loses the porpuse.

[@chidenisee]

I’m into LV now. It was Gucci and then I switched to LV. I only have one or 2 leather bags on my list and then I’m done. I’ve seen some Chanel items I liked but it never called to me like LV does. I wouldn’t mine a Kelly bag customized for me but that’s it.

[@chidenisee]

Oh I do have a fendi and a ysl on my list this year. I’m still deciding before I pull the trigger because they do not maintain their worth at all.

[@kittys.1956]

LV is the ish I love it! And I can shop omline

[@hellocatwalkcity]

How do you feel about the LV increases?

[@GracefulKnots]

Wow that Beige Chanel price is well above retail and that is because they know that people will be desperate to buy because these bags will soon be scarce. Wow lots to talk about

[@Makendu]

The Economy is pretty messed up atm so I’m not surprised inflation is happening a lot in the USA now

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Good point but these increases go beyond inflation.

[@zylbygdfn6542]

Walk away

[@heyyjanuary5256]

First, the quality is not going up so I don't think these price increases are warranted. Second, I'm happy with my current bag collection so no more Chanel bags for me. Let's say, I still had chanel bags in my wishlist though, with these price increases, I wouldn't buy anymore Chanel.

[@md-ob9nd]

Sadly i think im gonna have to Walk away.. 😢

[@lunasmom860]

As a matter of principle I am going to stick to to pre-loved vintage pieces …. It’s not the total amt to pay for wearable art …. the story, etc…. Which I LOVE……But the gross capitalism of profits over wearable art for those who we hope will carry forward the appreciation of this art form.

[@hellocatwalkcity]

Vintage Chanel is beautiful and I love how you describe these as “wearable art.” 👌

[@lanall4355]

These companies are greedy bastards! I refuse to support this kind of business! I’m selling the bags I have.I detest this! It is o longer fun.

[@kham6006]

Idiots on KZbin call these bags investment pieces-they really are not - they are kidding themselves

[@claireluxunboxing]

i would continue to get it, but very selectively

[@hellocatwalkcity]

That’s how we should always be, selective with how, when and where we spend our money! 😉