When Did Chanel Stop Using Gold Hardware?

Chanel is a luxury fashion brand that has been a favorite among fashion enthusiasts for decades. The brand is known for its classic designs and impeccable craftsmanship.

One of the most iconic elements of Chanel handbags is the gold hardware that has become synonymous with the brand. However, over the years, there have been changes in the hardware used by Chanel, and many people wonder when the brand stopped using gold hardware.

Gold Hardware: A Signature of Chanel

Chanel’s use of gold hardware began in the 1950s when Coco Chanel herself designed a handbag with gold chains as straps. The chain straps became an instant hit, and soon, all Chanel bags were adorned with gold hardware. The iconic CC logo was also introduced during this time and was often featured on the gold hardware.

The Shift to Silver Hardware

In the late 1990s, Chanel started experimenting with different colors and materials for its hardware. One of the most significant changes was the introduction of silver-toned hardware.

The shift to silver started with the introduction of the Classic Flap Bag in 1997. The bag featured silver-tone CC turn-lock closures instead of the traditional gold-tone closures.

Other Hardware Colors Used by Chanel

Apart from silver-toned hardware, Chanel has also used other colors for its hardware over the years. For instance, some bags feature gunmetal or black-tone hardware instead of gold or silver-tone. In recent years, Chanel has also introduced bags with ruthenium (a dark grey metal) and matte finishes.

When Did Chanel Stop Using Gold Hardware?

It is difficult to pinpoint exactly when Chanel stopped using gold-tone hardware altogether since there have been several instances where bags have featured both gold-tone and silver-tone hardware. However, it is safe to say that since the introduction of silver-tone hardware in 1997, the brand has been using it more frequently.

Exceptions to the Rule

While silver-tone hardware has become more prevalent in recent years, there are still some bags that feature gold-tone hardware. For instance, some limited edition bags or special collections have gold-tone hardware. Additionally, vintage Chanel bags may also feature gold-tone hardware since they were produced during a time when gold was the primary hardware color used by the brand.

Conclusion

Chanel’s shift from gold-tone to silver-tone hardware was a significant change that happened in the late 1990s. Since then, the brand has experimented with different colors and finishes for its hardware, but silver-tone remains the most common. While there may be exceptions to the rule, most Chanel bags produced today feature silver-tone hardware.