Chanel Square Mini Review

Chanel square mini review

The Chanel square mini in black was my first Chanel bag that I got back in December 2013. The bag is now 5 1/2 years old, so it’s about time that I do a little review on it! I thought this review could be in a similar style to my classic flap review – loosely based around frequently asked questions about the square mini.

How did you get yours?

I got mine from my local boutique in Zurich, I didn’t have a particular sales associate that I worked with (I still don’t). I just called up the day before and asked if they had the square mini in black, they did have it and reserved it for me to pick up the next day. Back in 2013, I don’t think mini bags were all the rage as they have become over the last couple of years so that could explain why it was “easy” to get.

Bag specifications?

Single flap, in caviar leather with silver hardware from the 2014 cruise collection. The bag has one large compartment and a flat zippered compartment on the inside and a flat “mona lisa” pocket on the back.

What are the measurements?

 13.5 × 17 × 8 cm with a strap drop of around 54cm.

What can you fit in the square mini?

I usually carry just the basics: iPhone 8 (iPhone X also fits in the square mini), cardholder and sunscreen. There is still room for a lip balm and mini perfume as seen above. I can also fit my Canon G7X camera, but then I wouldn’t be able to carry a cardholder (as an alternative I can use the flat compartment on the inside to keep cash and cards).

I was also asked if the square mini can fit an EpiPen, unfortunately, I cannot answer this question, but if someone does know please let me know in the comments section or on IG and I can update this post.

Do you prefer the square mini or rectangular mini?

The rectangle mini fits a little more than the square mini, however, the strap drop is longer. So even though I prefer the look of the rectangle shape more than the square shape, the longer strap drop does put me off a bit. The longer strap drop is something you should consider if you are petite. I am 164cm and find the square mini crossbody sits much better on me.

The square mini can be used as a clutch with the chains tucked inside the bag or loosely hung outside the bag, crossbody if you are petite or average height or over the shoulder.

Wear and tear? Does it scratch easily?

My square mini is in caviar leather so it is much less prone to scratches compared to lambskin. Besides minor wear on the grommets and CC turn lock, the bag is still in excellent condition – no corner wear at all!

Is it practical?

Yes, if you carry the basics! I love the cross body feature for airport travel, I have easy access to my passport, iPhone and wallet. When I travel it is also a nice sightseeing bag especially when I want to be handsfree at museums and city tours, it was perfect for Rome and Paris last year (where all the photos in this blog post were taken). I also love that the square mini can be worn casually during the day and then more dressed up for dinner or more formal occasions in the evening.

Is it always available?

Mini’s are available in the pre-fall (July) collection and in the cruise collection (December).

What does a square mini cost?

In the Eurozone, it retails for €2500, in Australia, it is AUD 4170, in the UK it is £2290, and in the US it is $3200.

Is it a good investment?

**I am going to assume “investment” as in wardrobe investment not “investment” in terms of resale value.**

Yes, based on the following factors:

• You can comfortably purchase it without going into debt for it – please don’t buy bags on credit no bag is that special. (I feel that I need to stress this point because social media can warp perceptions of reality resulting in consumers wanting things instantly no matter the cost or consequences).
• You are going to be using it a lot and see it as a wardrobe staple for many years to come. Work out the cost per wear here to see if getting the square mini is a good idea or not.
• You don’t carry much, or you attend a lot of events/occasions where a small, smart bag is appropriate.

Is it a classic item?

The square mini is a seasonal piece so it is not part of Chanel’s classic line (small, medium, jumbo and maxi) however, I consider the square mini in black, navy or red a classic wardrobe staple.

Photos in Rome and Paris were taken and edited by Paola Ledderucci.

Disclaimer: No affiliate links in this post.

Posted By: Steffy · In: Handbag reviews