Review: The Lady Dior (better than the Chanel Classic Flap?)
A little Review from me:
The Lady Dior (medium) stands out as an iconic accessory, deservedly celebrated for its timeless elegance and meticulous craftsmanship. This for me is the best handbag of all time. If you were to buy only one handbag - let it be this.
Its distinctive quilted cannage pattern and soft, luxurious leather create a sophisticated aesthetic that transcends trends. The bag's versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, seamlessly transitioning from daytime chic to evening glamour. The iconic Dior charms and architectural design elements add a touch of refinement, making it instantly recognisable. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bag's functionality and durability contribute to its reputation as a classic. It is important for me to say that when it comes to durability, I believe your preloved bag, will last you longer than a new 2024 Lady Dior. The quality, in my opinion, as with all luxury brands (minus Celine) has declined in the last five years.
I also love that by owning this bag, you own a piece of history, and you own the same bag as Princess Diana. The Lady Dior Medium Leather Bag has earned its status as my best bag of all time by effortlessly blending style, craftsmanship, and enduring allure. I would take a Lady Dior over a Chanel Classic Flap (there I said it). The only thing better than the Lady Dior Medium, is probably the Lady Dior Small.
In terms of functionality, I adore the fact that I can fit my entire makeup bag, hairbrush, airpods, wallet, keys, thin jumper, and at a push - pair of flats into this bag. Yet, it can equally be an elegant evening bag (take off the shoulder strap and the gold hardware gives enough glitz for it to be evening - despite the fact its quite big. But, if I was opting to use this as a summer bag for weddings, events etc - I would go down a size and purchase the small, as I think it looks bulky when worn with a lightweight summer dress (I took my navy one to Wimbledon and it was too heavy with the summer dress).
Pros
A piece of history: Owning the Lady Dior means owning the same bag once carried by Princess Diana, it’s literally fashion royalty.
Exquisite craftsmanship: Impeccably structured, beautifully stitched, and instantly recognisable without screaming for attention.
Elegant yet practical: The gold hardware adds just enough polish without feeling over the top.
Perfect strap length: The shoulder strap sits at the ideal height for comfort and proportion when worn cross-body.
Surprisingly spacious: Fits an entire makeup bag, wallet, keys, AirPods, thin jumper, and even flats — yet still looks chic.
Size - you just get away with this as a crossbody bag without it looking too bulky. JUST.
Versatile year-round: Works as a polished everyday bag in winter, and transforms into an elegant evening piece by removing the strap.
Timeless over trendy: Outlasts fleeting “it bags” and yes, I’d take a Lady Dior over a Chanel Classic Flap any day.
Cons
Expensive even on the preloved market. The Lady Dior is expensive, RRP for a medium Lady Dior is £5,300.00. A newer, good conditioned preloved (in the colours you actually want: black, beige, cream, browns, dusky pinks - you are looking at £2,800 + for the cannage leather, the brighter colours start at £2,400 or patent you can get an absolute steal starting at £1,400.
Too big for summer: The Medium can look bulky when worn with lightweight dresses or occasion wear in Summer. It’s too much leather.
Weight: When filled, it’s not the lightest especially noticeable in warmer months.
Limited flexibility: The shape doesn’t relax or mould to the body like softer bags. If you like that look it isn’t for you.
Size choice matters: The Medium is perfect for everyday use and you just get away with it as a cross body, and for an evening bag (just), but for summer events or weddings, the Small feels more balanced and refined.
Hope this helped xx
