Found: The Sold-Out Tory Burch Bag the Internet Can’t Stop Comparing to the Chanel 25 — Plus, Our Verdict
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For those whose explorer pages are filled with gorgeous influencers with dream wardrobes, there’s a chance you’ve seen the Chanel 25 handbags on social media. And if you didn’t see it on an influencer, you’ve probably seen it hanging from Margot Robbie’s shoulder for the brand’s latest campaign. I’ve had my eye on it since last year, after one of my favorite creators, Alexis Wilkerson (@a.wilkyy on Instagram), shared a day-in-the-life video in which she bought a medium suede version. Since then, I’ve seen this gorgeous purse again and again and have only wanted it more. But it would really put me into debt. So, as my algorithm would have it, it showed me another, more affordable option from Tory Burch that the fashion girlies say is better.
Just two weeks ago, Tory Burch expanded their classic Charlie collection with a new drawstring style. Similar to the Chanel 25, this shoulder bag features diamond-style quilting throughout, a drawstring closure, a chain-rope handle, and flap-style pockets on either side. And at a very quick glance, it looks so similar to Chanel’s that you’d have to do a double-take.
I definitely did when I came across TikTok creator Ayebeibei’s video on it. In it, she’s sitting in front of a screenshot of the Charlie drawstring bag while comparing the Chanel 25 that she owns. She starts the two-minute clip by saying, “As someone who owns the Chanel 25, dare I say that there are a couple of reasons why the Tory Burch bag might be better.” Her first reason is the price: the small version retails for just $550. Ayebeibei claims that it is a tenth of the price of the Chanel bag, which starts at $6,300. Next, she compares the handles, noting that the Tory Burch bag has a padded handle on the chain strap, which would be more comfortable than the iconic mademoiselle chain strap on the Chanel 25. Plus, the Charlie bag comes with a detachable strap that kinda makes it a two-in-one option that the Chanel bag doesn’t have.
Her last comparison is on the flaps. Aside from the fun drawstring closure, what really makes the Chanel 25 bag stand out is its two flap-style pockets at either end. Each one features the iconic double C logo, giving the bag a more unique look than other options from the fashion house. However, while the flap pockets are what make the bag what it is, according to some owners, it’s not the most practical, as they are flat against the bag and aren’t really functional. “It seems like the flaps on the [Charlie] are actually really substantial and have more utility,” she says.
“If you just want to hop on this trend or you just care about style and functionality, the Tory Burch bag is a phenomenal option,” she says. “It’s still made out of very high-quality leather, and for the price, it’s literally a fraction, a tenth of the cost of [the Chanel 25]. In my opinion, if you’re into luxury bags, it’s all about the appreciation of fine craftsmanship. And I love Tory Burch, I give them immense respect.”
Now, she’s not the only one who feels this way. Plenty of fashion creators have taken to the internet to share their thoughts on the new Charlie drawstring bag and how much they love it. So much so, some sizes and colors have already sold out. Currently, you can only find the large light cream version online at Tory Burch and Bloomingdale’s. As of now, both sizes in Black are completely sold out online, with just a handful of stores having one or two left. We’re hopeful that they’ll come back in stock, but just in case they don’t, make sure to snag a light cream one before it’s too late. Check it out, once more below.
Before you go, check out our slideshow below: