This post may contain affiliate links which means we may receive a commission at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.
Chanel bags are known for their style and quality. But with so many types of leather, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you understand the different Chanel leathers, so you can make the best choice for your needs.
Chanel uses a lot of different leathers. Each one has its own look and feel. Here are some of the most popular:
When picking a Chanel bag, think about how you will use it.
If you want a bag that will last a long time and keep its value, Caviar or Goatskin might be good choices.
Caviar leather—named for its pebbled texture, reminiscent of fish roe—owes its durability to a tight, pressed grain that resists scuffs and water. It’s a workhorse: perfect for daily commutes, bustling city days, or anyone prone to tossing a bag on a café chair without a second thought. Chanel’s Classic Flap in Caviar, for instance, ages like fine wine, developing a subtle sheen over years without losing its structure. Goatskin, on the other hand, is lighter and softer than Caviar but equally tough, with a smoother, more understated grain. It’s a favorite for Boy Chanel styles, where its suppleness complements the bag’s edgier silhouette—ideal if you want durability without the bulk. Both leathers hold their value fiercely in the resale market, making them smart investments for collectors.
If you want a bag that feels soft and looks special, Lambskin is a good option. But remember to be careful with it.
Lambskin is Chanel’s love letter to luxury: buttery, velvety, and impossibly smooth, with a delicate, almost cloud-like drape. It’s the leather of choice for iconic styles like the 2.55 Reissue, where its softness enhances the bag’s vintage-inspired lines. When new, it has a luminous glow, but that comes with a catch—its fine grain shows scratches easily, and heavy use can leave creases. Think of it as a “special occasion” leather: perfect for date nights, weddings, or days when you want to feel extra polished. To keep it pristine, store it in its dust bag when not in use, avoid overstuffing, and steer clear of rough surfaces (no leaning it against brick walls!).
If you want a bag that is strong and hides scratches, Calfskin is a great pick.
Calfskin strikes a sweet balance between Lambskin’s softness and Caviar’s resilience. Sourced from young cows, it has a smooth, even texture with a slight natural grain that’s more forgiving than Lambskin—scratches often blend into the leather rather than standing out. It’s sturdy enough for weekly use but refined enough for dressier moments, making it a versatile choice for bags like the Chanel 19, where its body helps maintain the bag’s puffy, relaxed shape. Over time, it develops a warm patina, adding character without looking worn. For those who want “everyday elegance” without the high maintenance, calfskin is a quiet standout.
If you want a bag that stands out, Patent Leather or Galuchat could be right for you.
Patent leather is unapologetically bold: a glossy, high-shine material that catches light from every angle, thanks to a protective coating that gives it that mirror-like finish. Chanel often uses it for seasonal editions of the Classic Flap or Mini Rectangular, in hues like cherry red or jet black, turning the bag into a statement piece. It’s water-resistant and easier to wipe clean than matte leathers, though that shine can show fingerprints—keep a microfiber cloth handy for quick touch-ups.
Galuchat, meanwhile, is luxury with a story. Made from stingray or shark skin (treated to soften its natural roughness), it has a distinctive pebbled texture with tiny, iridescent scales that shift color in different lights. Chanel has used Galuchat for decades, often pairing it with gold hardware for Art Deco-inspired designs that feel both vintage and avant-garde. It’s incredibly durable—stingray skin is one of the toughest materials in nature—but its rarity (and ethical sourcing standards) make it a collector’s item. Perfect for anyone who wants a bag that sparks conversations: “Is that… Galuchat?” Yes, and it’s yours.
Each leather tells a different story—of durability, luxury, versatility, or drama. The “right” one depends not just on your style, but on how you live with it: the commutes, the celebrations, the messy, beautiful moments that make a bag more than an accessory.
Choosing a Chanel bag is a big decision. Think about the type of leather that fits your style and needs. Do you want something strong and lasting, or something soft and unique? Knowing the different types of leather will help you pick a bag that you will love for years to come.
CHANEL E-BOUTIQUE | Discover the Collection
Chanel’s Ambassadors Over The Years
Girly Accessories Took on Street Style Trends at Chanel – InStyle
The history of the House of CHANEL
Uncover further inspiration in our blog.
Aveline Lux is a visionary writer and digital storyteller, using her blog on CitiWell Shop as a platform to explore the intersection of creativity, commerce, and culture.
Traveling extensively across continents, Aveline draws inspiration from different cultures and global trends, infusing her articles with unique perspectives and practical insights.
Aveline enjoys photography, hiking through nature trails, and curating playlists that fuel her creative process.
Collagen keeps skin plump, joints flexible, and hair strong—but our bodies make less of it after 25. Top Collagen Supplement Brands for Glowing Skin & Strong Joints highlights trusted labels that deliver high-quality collagen, with clear ingredients and real results. Whether you want to boost skin elasticity, ease joint pain, or thicken
Scalp health is key to preventing hair loss—dull, oily, or irritated scalps often lead to thinning hair over time. Top Scalp Care & Anti-Hair Loss Brands to Trust highlights reliable labels that target root causes: from clogged follicles to weak hair strands. Whether you’re dealing with mild shedding or early balding, Top Scalp
British beer is a cornerstone of UK culture—from creamy stouts in London pubs to hoppy IPAs in Manchester breweries. Top British Beer Brands You Need to Try spotlights iconic labels and their star products, breaking down ingredients, tastes, pros and cons, and official links. Whether you’re a beer novice or a craft
Moving to the UK means adapting to new daily routines—and having the right household appliances makes this transition smooth. Essential Household Appliances for New Immigrants in the UK highlights the must-have items tailored to British living, including cutting-edge AI-powered devices that simplify life, save energy, and enhance convenience. Whether you’re renting a
Homemade herbal teas offer a natural, sugar-free way to support weight management—no artificial additives or hidden calories. Best Homemade Herbal Teas for Weight Management shares easy, affordable recipes you can whip up in minutes. These teas boost metabolism, curb cravings, and aid digestion, making them perfect for daily routines. Whether you prefer
