A lot of ladies know that the famous Chanel 2.55 handbag got its name because it was created in February 1955. But did you know that Coco Chanel designed it with an inner zippered pocket beneath the flap so she had a place to conceal her love letters?

Or that today Chanel, along with Hermes and Louis Vuitton, is among the few luxury craftsmen that still make their own handbags. For instance, as Linda Grant points out in A Thoughtful Dresser, manufacturers can legally have their bags made in China, attach a handle in Europe and label them MADE IN ITALY. And they do!

That’s why so many women still crave the authentic workmanship and cachet of a Chanel bag created some 56 years ago. Of course, if your budget doesn’t allow for a new or vintage Chanel 2.55 handbag, you can satisfy your craving with today’s VPOD instead.

This vintage Chanel necklace bears a lovely 2.55 handbag charm (though it does lack the space for your love letters).

But no worries. It’s still a delightful find for a vintage fashionista!

Available at TORCHWOOD Vintage Online JAPAN.

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