Chanel is a luxury fashion brand that is well-known for its iconic handbags. The brand’s handbags are not only stylish and elegant but also durable and of the highest quality. One of the most notable features of Chanel handbags is their hardware, which has undergone several changes over the years.
Many Chanel fans wonder when the brand stopped making gold-plated hardware for their handbags. In this article, we will explore this topic in-depth.
History of Chanel Hardware
Chanel handbags have been around since the 1920s, and during that time, the hardware used on these bags was made from real gold. However, as World War II broke out in Europe, luxury goods became scarce, and Chanel had to look for an alternative to gold.
In the 1950s, Chanel began using gold-plated hardware on their bags. This allowed them to maintain the luxurious look of their bags while also making them more accessible to a wider audience.
Over time, Chanel has experimented with different types of hardware materials such as silver-tone metal and ruthenium. However, gold-plated hardware remained a signature feature of many of their bags until recently.
When Did Chanel Stop Making Gold-Plated Hardware?
In 2021, Chanel announced that they will no longer be producing bags with gold-plated hardware. Instead, they will be using an alloy called “gold metal” which is a mix of brass and gold.
This decision was made due to environmental concerns surrounding the production process for gold-plated hardware. The process involves multiple chemical treatments that release harmful chemicals into the environment.
What Does This Mean for Chanel Handbags?
For collectors and fans of vintage Chanel bags with gold-plated hardware, this change may lead to an increase in value for those pieces. Additionally, it means that new bags produced by Chanel will look slightly different from older models.
It’s important to note that Chanel’s commitment to sustainability is not new. The brand has been making efforts to reduce their environmental impact for several years, such as using eco-friendly packaging and reducing their carbon emissions.
Conclusion
Chanel’s decision to stop using gold-plated hardware on their handbags is a significant change for the brand. However, it shows their commitment to sustainability and reducing their impact on the environment. Fans of vintage Chanel bags may see an increase in value for those pieces, but it also means that new bags will have a slightly different look.
Regardless of the hardware used, Chanel handbags remain one of the most luxurious and iconic fashion accessories in the world.