The handbag that gave women freedom. The famous Chanel model turns 70.

Coco Chanel freed women from uncomfortable corsets and theatrical feathers. She also freed their hands with the Chanel 2.55 handbag. Tired of having to carry a handbag in one hand, the Frenchwoman designed a model that women could wear on their shoulders. Like the Hermès "Birkinka," the 2.55 is an accessory that stands the test of time. Despite this year marking the 70th anniversary of its launch, it remains one of the most coveted handbag styles.

The idea for the handbag, which, like many of Coco's designs, revolutionized fashion, was born in 1929. At the time, it was a daring design. Chanel revisited it 26 years later when she revived her fashion house.

From the beginning of her fashion career, Chanel was guided by the idea of freedom and liberating women from the rigid confines of fashion. She restored freedom not only to their waists but also to their hands, which she preferred to keep in her pockets, a task that traditional handbags made difficult. In February 1955, Chanel introduced an accessory that remains a timeless wardrobe staple even after 70 years. Its name comes from the date of its premiere (2.55 = February 1955) .

- Tired of carrying handbags in my hand and constantly losing them, I put them through my belt and slung them over my shoulder - this is how Chanel described the creation of the bag.

The rectangular bag was crafted from soft lambskin with a distinctive diamond-patterned quilting, later followed by a herringbone pattern. Like many of Coco's designs, this one carries numerous symbols related to her personal life.

The lining is burgundy, a nod to the uniforms at the convent where she grew up. The front flap features a zippered pocket. This is said to be where Chanel kept love letters in her original handbag. The distinctive double chain shoulder strap is a nod to the convent's caretakers, who held their keys on the same chains, hanging from their belts.

Chanel 2.55 handbag/photo: Chanel press materials

Over the years, the 2.55 model has remained virtually unchanged, although today, its enthusiasts have three sizes to choose from. The bag has appeared in numerous color variations and is made from a variety of fabrics—silk, suede, denim—to match changing trends. Its popularity was sustained by style icons like Jacqueline Kennedy and Princess Diana, and its versatility is evidenced by the fact that modern trendsetters also readily use it. This style suits both evening and everyday outfits.

Today, a Chanel handbag is also an investment. Prices range from $5 (mini version) to over $11,000 (large), or from 18,000 to 40,000 złoty. Therefore, some people view it not so much as an accessory, but as a safe way to invest their money. It's unlikely that its value will depreciate. It's more likely that such a purchase can yield benefits, including style.