Does Chanel Have Sales? Everything You Need To Know

Discover why Chanel doesn't have sales and how its exclusivity is maintained. Learn about their pricing strategy and what to expect from this luxury brand.
Written by: 
Ash Read
Last updated: 

The short answer is no, Chanel does not have sales. The luxury brand maintains its exclusive status by avoiding traditional discounts, clearances, and promotional events like Black Friday. You won't find a sale section on their website or in their boutiques.

However, that doesn't mean it's impossible to find Chanel items for less than the original retail price. The key is to look at authorized resale markets, Chanel's rare outlet store locations, and very occasional private events. Shop now at chanel.com.

What Chanel Offers Instead of Traditional Sales

Chanel's strategy is built around exclusivity, so you won't find the typical sales calendar here. Instead, there are a few rare circumstances where you might find items at a lower price.

Private & Sample Sales

Extremely rare and typically invite-only, Chanel sometimes holds private or sample sales for employees, VIP clients, and fashion insiders. These are not publicly advertised and are a very small part of their business model. Don't count on getting access to these unless you have a direct connection.

Chanel Outlet Stores

Chanel operates a few outlet stores in locations around the world, including in the U.S. These stores sell past-season merchandise at a reduced price. The stock varies greatly and doesn't include current collections, but it is one of the only official channels to buy new Chanel products at a discount.

Gifts with Purchase

Occasionally, especially in the beauty department, Chanel or authorized retailers like department stores will offer a gift with purchase. This isn't a discount on the price, but you do get an extra product like a makeup bag or deluxe sample for free with a qualifying purchase.

What You Won't Find From Chanel

To be clear, Chanel does not participate in the following:

  • Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales
  • Seasonal or "end-of-season" clearances in boutiques
  • First-time customer coupons or email sign-up discounts
  • Public loyalty or rewards programs
  • Bundle deals or sitewide promotional codes

Where to Find Discounted Chanel Items

Since official sales are off the table, the best way to save money on Chanel is through alternative, secondary markets. Here's where to look.

Authorized Resale & Pre-Owned Markets

This is by far the most reliable way to find discounted Chanel. Reputable luxury resale platforms authenticate every item, ensuring you're getting the real deal. You can often find both vintage classics and recent-season items at a significant discount compared to retail. Top sites include:

  • The RealReal
  • Vestiaire Collective
  • Fashionphile

Always check authenticity guarantees and return policies on these platforms before buying.

Luxury Department Stores

While very uncommon, high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue or Neiman Marcus may occasionally mark down Chanel items from past seasons, particularly in their shoe departments. This is rare for handbags but can happen with other categories. These are not Chanel-sanctioned sales but rather retailer-driven markdowns.

Chanel Outlet Store Locations

If you're near a Chanel outlet, it's worth a visit. These stores are the only Chanel-operated locations where discounts are standard. You can find ready-to-wear clothing, shoes, and accessories from previous collections.

Tips for Maximizing Your Savings on Chanel

Finding a deal on Chanel requires a different strategy than regular shopping. Here are a few tips to help you get the best price possible.

Set Price Alerts on Resale Sites

If you have a specific bag or piece of jewelry in mind, use the price alert or "favorites" feature on sites like The RealReal or Fashionphile. You'll get an email notification if the item's price drops, allowing you to snag it at the right moment.

Focus on Vintage Pieces

Vintage Chanel bags and jewelry from before the 2000s can sometimes be more affordable than their newer counterparts. They also hold their value exceptionally well, making them a great long-term investment that you can enjoy wearing.

Use Department Store Rewards

If you plan to buy Chanel Beauty or fragrance from a department store like Bloomingdale's or Harrods, use their store credit cards or sign up for their loyalty programs. You can often accumulate points on full-price Chanel purchases that you can then redeem for discounts on other items in the store.

What You Should Know About Buying Discounted Chanel

Before you start your search, keep these essential points in mind to avoid frustration and potential scams.

  • Authenticity is essential. The resale market can be filled with fakes. Only buy from platforms that offer a money-back authenticity guarantee and have a rigorous verification process.
  • There are no official promo codes. Any website claiming to have a coupon code for Chanel's official site is not legitimate. Chanel does not issue discount codes to the public.
  • Sale and pre-owned items are often final sale. Always double-check the return policy before purchasing a discounted or pre-owned Chanel item, as it may be ineligible for returns or exchanges.

While Chanel's no-sale policy is strict, savvy shoppers who know where to look - primarily on trusted resale sites and in outlet stores - can still find iconic pieces without paying the full retail price. Happy hunting!