December 16, 2025
While the chill of winter might traditionally suggest richer, heavier materials like thick wool or patent leather, Chanel’s Cruise 2025/26 collection emphatically challenges these conventions by championing the exquisite versatility of soft suede. This season, the House of Chanel elevates winter layering—from sumptuous chunky knits to dramatically oversized outerwear and cascading scarves—by introducing handbags rendered in this tactile, buttery material. The result is an infusion of approachable opulence and undeniable softness into the colder months’ wardrobe palette.
Chanel’s mastery of materials is on full display in this latest collection, proving that luxurious suede is not merely an autumnal indulgence but a year-round statement of refined taste. The selection spans an impressive breadth of silhouettes, ensuring that every aesthetic preference finds its perfect suede counterpart. The palette leans into sophisticated, grounding neutrals—think deep, inviting Caramel tones reminiscent of Dark Beige, rich, decadent Chocolate Brown, serene, cool Gray, and even surprising, energetic accents of vibrant Coral. Whether you seek the relaxed elegance of a hobo, the structured charm of a classic flap, or the nostalgic appeal of a pouch, these suede creations are meticulously crafted to be both enduringly timeless and profoundly desirable.
The Statement Piece: The Maxi Hobo Bag
At the pinnacle of tactile luxury sits the Chanel Maxi Hobo Bag. This piece embodies relaxed grandeur, constructed from supple suede calfskin accented with delicate lambskin trim. It is hardware that elevates the experience, featuring polished gold-tone finishes that contrast beautifully with the matte texture of the suede. Merging supreme comfort with unmistakable Chanel iconography, the generously proportioned silhouette is softened by flat quilting and crowned with the signature interlocking CC hardware.
Measuring an expansive 13.8 x 15 x 5.5 inches, the Maxi Hobo is engineered for versatility in daily carry. Users can opt for the refined look of the leather top handle, perfectly balanced for hand-carrying, or utilize the substantial, chunky chain shoulder strap for a more relaxed, effortlessly slung profile. Due to its inherently soft construction, the bag is designed to gently conform to the wearer’s movements throughout the day, ensuring that while it remains practical for carrying all necessities, it never sacrifices its indulgent feel. This blend of high capacity and high fashion makes it an ideal companion for busy, style-conscious individuals. The Maxi Hobo is offered in timeless Dark Brown, sophisticated Gray, and classic Black, carrying a retail price of $7,300.
Retro Charm Redefined: The Mini Camera Case
Injecting a compelling dose of vintage nostalgia into the modern collection is the Mini Camera Case. This compact, structured design draws inspiration from classic photographic equipment carriers and antique beauty boxes. It is fashioned from plush Light Brown suede calfskin, subtly contrasted with matching lambskin trimming. The boxy, zip-around profile maintains structural integrity while the suede finish keeps it soft to the touch. Adding a final flourish of elevated detail are the double chain shoulder straps, finished in aged-gold-tone hardware, which strike a perfect balance between historical allusion and contemporary polish.
Despite its diminutive appearance, the Mini Camera Case proves surprisingly capable, measuring 6.1 x 7.9 x 3 inches. It comfortably accommodates daily essentials such as a modern smartphone, a compact wallet, keys, and necessary cosmetics. The functional interior features a practical accordion-style opening leading to two structured main compartments, a secure zippered pocket, and a convenient slip pocket for items requiring immediate access. The double chain straps allow for elegant shoulder wear, balancing utility with grace. This specific, highly coveted silhouette is presented exclusively in the warm Light Brown suede and is priced at $6,400.
Playful Sophistication: Mini Pouch & Small Hobo Bag
Furthering the collection’s exploration of retro aesthetics are the Mini Pouch and the Small Hobo Bag, both designed to transition seamlessly from daytime outings to evening events. Both styles share a minimalist, cinched-pouch silhouette, expertly crafted from flat-quilted suede calfskin. A discreet magnetic closure secures the softly gathered top. What truly defines these pieces are the charming, circular handles, rendered in a distinctive tortoiseshell-effect plexi, which are echoed in the matching CC emblems—a design choice that radiates sophisticated vintage charm.
These styles are offered in two distinct sizes to suit varying needs. The Mini Pouch measures a dainty 3.5 x 4.7 x 2 inches, making it ideal for evening essentials. It is available in grounding Black and rich Dark Brown, retailing for $2,775. For those requiring a bit more capacity, the Small Hobo Bag expands to 7.1 x 9.4 x 4.7 inches. This slightly larger version introduces a pop of spirited color, available in the aforementioned Coral shade alongside Dark Brown, priced at $5,300.
Honoring Heritage: Mini Flap Bag & Flap Bag
For the enthusiast whose heart belongs to the foundational codes of the House, Chanel offers the Suede Flap Bag, a testament that the classics are eternal. This iteration transforms the instantly recognizable silhouette into a soft, slouchy dream, introducing the tactile richness of suede to its celebrated form. Crafted from exceptionally supple suede calfskin, the single-flap design retains its essential structure but gains a relaxed fluidity. The iconic CC turnlock is subtly reinterpreted, featuring a leather-coated finish that blends tonally with the suede, complemented by matching enlarged eyelets. The singular, aged-gold-tone chain strap drapes elegantly over the shoulder, maintaining a polished yet wonderfully effortless aesthetic.
The Flap Bag is presented in two versatile sizes. The Mini Flap Bag measures 5.5 x 7.9 x 2.4 inches—the perfect dimension for essentials like a smartphone, a slim wallet, and lipstick. It is available in the luminous Dark Beige and is priced at $6,000. The standard Flap Bag offers slightly more room for daily necessities, measuring 6.7 x 9.4 x 2.8 inches. This larger version expands the color story, arriving in a striking Blue, the versatile Dark Beige, and the bright Coral, retailing for $6,600.
The Ultimate Practical Luxury: Chanel 25 Medium Backpack
Completing the highlight reel of suede offerings is the newest addition to the popular 25 family: the Chanel 25 Backpack. Designed for the dynamic individual who prioritizes hands-free convenience without compromising on luxury, this backpack is rendered in a stunning Dark Gray suede calfskin, accented with polished gold-tone hardware. It faithfully incorporates the beloved elements of its namesake bag: a secure drawstring closure featuring a distinctive CC toggle, an internal magnetic tab for added security, practical side pockets, and, crucially, chunky chain shoulder straps that echo the elegance of the Flap bags.
This backpack is exclusively launched in the medium suede iteration, measuring a balanced 9.1 x 9.1 x 5.5 inches. This size is perfectly proportioned to hold all daily essentials—including a phone, wallet, sunglasses, keys, and even a small notebook or tablet—without ever appearing cumbersome. The carrying options are thoughtfully diverse: wear it casually over one shoulder, grasp the leather top handle for a quick grab-and-go moment, or utilize the dual straps for full hands-free mobility. The Chanel 25 Medium Backpack in suede is available for $6,500.
This Cruise 2025/26 collection confirms that suede is a material that deserves a central role in any luxury wardrobe, regardless of the calendar. Which of these exquisitely textured Chanel suede masterpieces—from the slouchy hobo to the retro pouch or the iconic flap—captures your imagination for the season ahead?