It’s been more than six years since Chanel launched the Boy Bag in 2011. Since it’s debut, the Boy has been one of the hottest bags in the world. Maison Chanel is hoping to have the same impact when the company launches the Gabrielle bag this coming month.
Named for the French brand’s founder, Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel, the Gabrielle is expected to become a pillar of the Chanel brand. The bag launch will coincide with the rollout of a new fragrance, jewelry and a very large media campaign depicting the designer as a young and rebellious girl, according to WWD. (Perhaps that was the pre-WWII years?)
The new handbag style was inspired by virtual reality goggles and upending the shape, according to Karl Lagerfeld. The Gabrielle has a flat-bottom and is shown in styles raging from a backpack, synch bag and a tote. There are also a bunch of colors and materials from which to choose. Prices range from $3,000 for a classic black lambskin up to $33,000 for a large alligator version. (You can see more pictures of the new bag style here.)
It’s hard to make a full assessment of the Gabrielle without seeing and holding it but the style seems familiar. The new style draws design similarities to the Cambon bucket bag, the now, discontinued Shopping Tote, a backpack and a vintage quilted tote.
We would love to hear your thoughts on the Gabrielle. Is this a new ‘must have’ or a fruitless attempt to avoid luxury stagnation?
