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
Reach for this vintage Balenciaga The First in pink crinkled leather for brunch, gallery openings or city evenings. Its detachable shoulder strap keeps you hands‑free from day to night, while the classic brass hardware lends edge to both relaxed denim and a sharp blazer.
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 are the dimensions and what typically fits inside the Balenciaga First? A: This piece measures approximately 32 × 19 × 5 cm with a 12.5 cm handle drop and a 20 cm strap drop. It comfortably holds a smartphone, long wallet, sunglasses, keys and a small cosmetics pouch. A slim A5 diary or a small tablet (such as an iPad mini) can fit when placed horizontally. Full‑size tablets and large water bottles are generally too big for this size.
Q: Can the First be worn crossbody? A: The classic First comes with a short, non‑adjustable shoulder strap that most users find suitable for shoulder carry rather than true crossbody wear. A few very early pieces reportedly had slightly longer straps, but crossbody carry is not typical for this model. Please refer to the 20 cm strap drop listed for this item.
Q: Is the shoulder strap adjustable or removable? A: The strap is detachable for versatility but not adjustable. This item includes the detachable shoulder strap listed in the Accessories section.
Q: What type of leather is used and how does it wear over time? A: Many First bags are crafted in Balenciaga’s soft, crinkled lambskin (often called Arena leather), while some early 2000s examples were made in goatskin. The leather is designed to be supple and may develop softening, slight creasing, and gentle patina with use. Handle darkening and minor corner wear are common signs of normal ageing on vintage pieces.
Q: How should I care for the leather and hardware? A: Wipe the leather occasionally with a very soft, dry cloth and avoid moisture, oils, colour transfer and prolonged sunlight/heat. Store it stuffed to support the silhouette and keep it in a breathable dust bag. Condition sparingly with a leather‑safe product only if needed; for deep cleaning or colour touch‑ups, consult a professional leather specialist. Hardware should be buffed gently with a microfibre cloth—avoid abrasives or metal polish.
Q: What are the key differences between Classic and Giant hardware on Motorcycle styles? A: Classic hardware features smaller round studs and buckles in an aged‑brass tone with leather tassel zip pulls. Giant hardware (introduced later) uses larger, more prominent studs; some seasons offered Giant 12 (smaller of the giant studs) and Giant 21 (larger). This particular bag features Classic brass hardware.
Q: When did the First bag appear and why is it considered iconic? A: The First is part of Balenciaga’s Motorcycle line introduced under Nicolas Ghesquière in 2001. Its slouchy silhouette, braided handles, zipper details and studded hardware made it an early‑2000s icon and a favourite among celebrities; the aesthetic continues to inspire current re‑editions.
Q: Is this size practical for daily use? A: Yes—if you carry the essentials. The First offers a streamlined, lightweight option for daily errands or evenings out, with an exterior zipped pocket for quick‑access items and an interior zipped pocket for valuables. If you frequently carry larger tech or a water bottle, you may prefer a bigger Motorcycle style such as the City or Work.
Q: What accessories are included with this item? A: Everything included is listed under Accessories. For this piece, a detachable shoulder strap is included. If a dust bag, mirror or card is not listed there, it is not included. As always, A Retro Tale carefully authenticates every item we sell and can share additional photos or details 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
/ Handbags
• Pink crinkled leather
• Classic brass hardware
• Dual whipstitched top handles
• Detachable shoulder strap
• One external zip pocket
• Black fabric lining with one internal 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.
