I bought an extra mini with chain detail on handle in June of this year. I had been looking for the small size but when I tried that on I found the handle sat too close under my chest, got in the way and it just didn’t work on my body (I’m 5’4 average weight). I like to wear my bags crossbody so it just didn’t work for me. I also felt in that size it looked too much like a work bag on me (in black at least which is my preferred colour).
I tried on the extra mini and immediately felt more comfortable wearing it crossbody however it’s also very small and barely fits anything. Mainly due to the divider inside which is annoying as without that it would fit quite a lot I think. It was I think over £5000 so very expensive. But rare for Chanel nowadays it’s caviar leather which was the clincher for me as well as the classic and cute look and top handle so I took it. Since then I’ve felt I should sell it as it’s so expensive and due to it not fitting much, the back pocket in particular is awkward to get my phone in and out.
However it is so aesthetic and cute I can’t bring myself to part with it. And although it fits little ( I mean it does fit the essentials - iPhone 11, AirPods, keys, slim Chanel card holder, work pass in divider inside and a very small lipgloss) I find vibe wise it makes a perfect every day bag. It suits any occasion- work, casual, day and night. Short walks in a park or to local cafe, equally going to the office as the handle makes it look work officious! But the size also makes it cute for weekend and date nights/dinners/events.
And importantly to me, it’s Chanel clearly, but to me not as flashy and obvious as my medium classic flap so I feel comfortable with it and secure that I can wear it crossbody and cover it when on public transport, it’s discreet. It’s also just so ladylike and cute, it’s adorable. The medium flap is more chic and serious probably but I don’t want to feel super serious every day! Would have probably liked it slightly bigger like a size in between extra mini and mini but then I guess it might lose its cuteness. It’s a keeper for me.