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
Perfect for weekend city breaks or daytime outings, this vintage blue Balenciaga First adds an effortless edge to denim and dresses. A compact companion that moves from brunch to evening drinks with ease.
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 the Balenciaga First? A: With approximate measurements of 31 × 19 × 6 cm, it comfortably holds a long wallet, smartphone, keys, sunglasses, and a small cosmetics pouch. A slim book or small tablet (such as an iPad mini) can also fit. Capacity depends on how you pack; please refer to the Measurements on this page for exact sizing.
Q: Can the shoulder strap be worn crossbody? A: The strap drop is approximately 20 cm and is designed for shoulder carry, sitting relatively high under the arm. For most people it is not long enough to wear comfortably as a crossbody bag.
Q: How does the First compare to the City? A: The First is the smaller, more compact style in Balenciaga’s classic Motorcycle family, ideal for daily essentials. The City is larger and deeper, offering more capacity and a roomier silhouette. If you prefer a lighter day bag, the First is usually the better choice; if you need extra space, consider the City.
Q: Is this the vintage First or the recent “Le City First” reissue? A: This is a vintage First from the classic line. Balenciaga’s 2025 “Le City First” reissue has very similar proportions and features (top handles, shoulder strap, front zip pocket and mirror), but this listing refers to an earlier, original-generation First.
Q: What is included with this item? A: Everything included is listed under the product information on this page. For this piece, it includes a detachable shoulder strap and a mirror. If you need clarification, please contact us before purchase.
Q: What are the notable signs of wear on this bag? A: Overall condition is graded Good. The leather shows some creasing; the handles are darkened and scuffed; the hardware has some dullness and tarnish; the interior shows light signs of use. Please review the photos for the most accurate view.
Q: What kind of leather is the First made from, and how should I care for it? A: Historically, early First bags were often crafted in distressed goatskin (chèvre), later moving primarily to soft distressed lambskin (often called Arena lambskin). This piece is blue distressed leather. Care tips: avoid prolonged sunlight, moisture and colour transfer; wipe with a soft, dry cloth; do not use harsh cleaners or metal polishes; store stuffed in a breathable dust bag to maintain shape. For deeper cleaning or restoration, consult a professional leather specialist.
Q: How is the interior organised? A: It has a top zip closure, a fabric-lined interior with one zipped pocket for valuables, and a front exterior zipped pocket for items you want quick access to.
Q: How do you authenticate this bag and can you date it? A: Every item at A Retro Tale is rigorously vetted by our in-house experts using multi-point checks of materials, stitching, hardware, interior labels and serial/date codes. Many vintage Balenciaga bags carry an interior plaque or leather tag with numbers and letters that can indicate model and season. We stand behind the authenticity of all items and can share additional details or photos on request.
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.
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.
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.
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
/ Crossbody bags
1 027 £
• Blue distressed leather
• Aged brass hardware
• Dual top handles and a detachable shoulder strap
• Black fabric lining with one internal and one external zip pocket
• Top zip closure
• 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.
