We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
From coffee dates to gallery openings, this vintage Balenciaga First in ecru distressed leather lends effortless edge to day-to-night looks. Its compact silhouette and silver-tone accents elevate denim and tailoring alike, making it a chic choice for weekend city breaks or an evening out.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What typically fits inside this Balenciaga First? A: With approximate interior space of 32 × 17 × 5 cm, it comfortably fits a large smartphone, continental wallet, keys, sunglasses, and a small cosmetic pouch or card holder. A slim e‑reader or small paperback may fit; a full‑size tablet will not. Please compare your items to the listed Measurements for the best guidance.
Q: Can I wear it crossbody? A: This piece has a strap drop of about 20 cm, which is designed for shoulder carry rather than crossbody. Typical crossbody drops are much longer, so this will sit high if worn across the body. Some owners attach a longer third‑party strap to the rings, but this is not included and we recommend using compatible hardware and taking care to protect the leather.
Q: Is the strap adjustable or removable? A: The shoulder strap on this vintage First is detachable but not adjustable. The drop is approximately 20 cm. It also has dual whipstitched top handles with a drop of about 12 cm for handheld carry.
Q: How does the First compare to the City? A: The First is the smaller, day‑to‑night size within Balenciaga’s Motorcycle family, while the City offers more capacity for everyday use. Both share the signature soft, distressed leather, braided handles, tasselled zip pulls and studded hardware; the First is slimmer and lighter with a more compact footprint.
Q: What leather is used, and how does it age? A: Many First bags are crafted in soft, distressed lambskin (often called Arena/Agneau), while some early 2000s pieces were made in chèvre (goatskin). Lambskin develops a relaxed patina and can show corner wear over time; this piece is a cream‑coloured distressed leather that already shows light rubbing and marks consistent with use.
Q: How should I care for this light lambskin leather? A: Keep it away from rain and dark fabrics prone to colour transfer, wipe gently with a soft dry cloth after wear, and use a neutral, high‑quality leather conditioner very sparingly when needed. Store it loosely stuffed in a breathable dust bag, out of direct sunlight and heat, to help maintain shape and colour.
Q: How is a Balenciaga First authenticated? A: Authentic pieces feature an interior leather tag (sometimes with a small metal plate depending on era/hardware) with the Balenciaga stamp; style and production codes are typically on the reverse, often including a season letter. Quality zips, studs, stitching and consistent fonts are also key checkpoints. Every item at A Retro Tale is thoroughly vetted by our experts, and we stand behind its authenticity.
Q: Does this item come with a mirror and dust bag? A: Yes. As listed in the product information for this piece, it comes with a detachable shoulder strap, the signature leather‑framed mirror, and a dust bag. If an item isn’t listed in product information, it is not included—please ask us if you’d like us to confirm.
Q: Will a long (continental) wallet fit? A: Yes. A typical continental wallet around 19 × 10 cm fits easily when placed horizontally, with room for essentials like a phone and keys.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Balenciaga
/ Bags
/ Handbags
921 £
50%
off retail price
• Cream-coloured distressed leather • Silver-tone hardware • Dual whipstitched top handles • Detachable flat shoulder strap • Black fabric lining with one internal zipped pocket • Top zip closure • Comes with a leather-framed mirror • Vintage
The authenticity of this bag has been checked and verified by our experts who have over 10 years of experience in vintage and luxury bags. We also use a well established 3rd party authentication tool to verify our bags.
