Starting as a modest boutique, Balenciaga evolved to transform the landscape of women’s fashion with shapes and contours during the middle of the 20th century that were nothing less than groundbreaking. Today, the brand is as venturesome as ever and is well known for its shoes, handbags, streetwear and other clothing and accessories.
Though he was born in the quiet fishing village of Getaria in Spain’s Basque region, Cristóbal Balenciaga (1895–1972) was destined to reshape modern fashion. As a child, he worked alongside his seamstress mother. Showing immense talent, he earned commissions as a teenager from local patron Marquesa de Casa Torres, who paid for his tailoring education in Madrid. In 1917, he established his first haute couture house — named Eisa, for his mother — in the trendy resort town San Sebastián. He soon followed it with boutiques in Madrid and Barcelona, drawing such clientele as the Spanish royal family.
When the Spanish Civil War put a hold on his prospects in Spain, the designer moved to Paris, opening a house on Avenue Georges V in 1937. There, Balenciaga rubbed elbows with fashion greats like Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli and quickly won over clients like Gloria Guinness, Pauline de Rothschild and Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor. As a couturier, Balenciaga drew from his Spanish heritage for ideas, riffing on everything from matador costumes and flamenco dresses to the paintings of Diego Velázquez, whose portraits of Spanish princesses famously inspired Balenciaga’s Infanta gown.
An expert tailor, he experimented with sculptural silhouettes that didn’t follow the body. Some of his notable designs include the 1953 balloon jacket, and from 1957, the cocoon coat, the baby-doll dress and the sack dress, which he popularized with his good friend designer Hubert de Givenchy. All of these could be considered not just the masterpieces of haute couture, but also objets d’art in their own right, leading to Balenciaga’s nickname, “The Master.”
Balenciaga continued designing until 1968, when he retired after three decades of influential work and his fashion house went dormant. The rights to Balenciaga were acquired by Jacques Bogart S.A. in 1986. Under designer Michel Goma, who focused on ready-to-wear, the brand experienced a resurgence, with his first collection introduced in 1987. The brand returned to high fashion with the arrival of designer Josephus Thimister in 1992. It has since been led by a series of creative directors who have paid homage to Balenciaga’s iconic designs, including Nicolas Ghesquière, Alexander Wang and, most recently, Demna Gvasalia. In 2011, a museum celebrating Balenciaga’s legacy opened in his hometown in Spain, commemorating where it all began.
On 1stDibs, find vintage Balenciaga crossbody bags, tote bags, day dresses, shirts and more.
Balenciaga 2025 Sac Cuir Bel Air Medium Black Leather Hand Bag Carry all New
By Balenciaga
Located in PARIS, FR
Balenciaga Bel Air Medium bag (version 1, now reissued in other sizes) in matte black leather and gold-tone hardware. Features adjustable straps and snap closures to change the bag's...
BALENCIAGA black nude HOURGLASS XS LACE Top Handle Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Balenciaga Hourglass XS bag in nude leather with an all-over black floral and logo-embroidered lace overlay. This iconic lux...
Balenciaga Vintage City Red Handle Bag with Silver Hardware
By Balenciaga
Located in Capri, IT
Balenciaga City red handle bag measurements: 44 cm, 26 * 18 cm silver hardware
Balenciaga Blue Grey Large Raffia Basket Tote Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Paris, FR
Balenciaga Blue grey “Large” raffia basket tote bag featuring black calfskin leather trim, handles and shoulder handles, interior two flat pockets and one exterior zip pocket. Circa ...
Balenciaga Crush Tote Handbag With New York Charms M New With Tags
By Balenciaga
Located in New York, NY
100% authentic Balenciaga Crush tote dirty arena Lambskin with New York charms Black color but listed as "dirty arena" since leather has that look made on purpose by balenciaga Size...
BALENCIAGA white eather 2019 CLASSIC CITY SCARF NANO Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Balenciaga Classic Nano Scarf bag is crafted from supple white leather and elevated with a statement silk accent. One top handle is wrapped in a white and black l...
Balenciaga XS Le Cagole Shoulder Bag in Blue Lambskin Leather
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Step up your style game with the Isabel Marant Mossa Studded Cut-Out Ankle Boots in Brown Suede. These eye-catching boots feature a bold cut-out design, adorned with sleek stud detai...
Balenciaga Rodeo Large Black Calfskin Leather Two Way Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Balenciaga Rodeo Large Black Calfskin Leather Two Way Bag These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. CONDITION: EXCELLENT Light rubbing around the opening an...
BALENCIAGA Le Dix Cartable Medium gold hardware structured top handle flap bag
By Balenciaga, Alexander Wang
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA Le Dix Cartable Medium grey leather gold hardware structured top handle flap bag Reference: SYDN/A00006 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Alexander Wang Model: Le Dix Cartable C...
2022 Balenciaga Hourglass All-Over Logo Denim Bag w/Dust Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Port Hope, ON
In excellent condition this 2022 (692040.4312.493076) Balenciaga Hourglass is crafted from light blue bleached denim fabric, and features a Balenciaga allover logo pattern with aged ...
BALENCIAGA Demna Hourglass XS black strass crystal leather crossbody bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA Demna Hourglass XS black strass crystal leather crossbody bag Reference: LNKO/A02467 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Model: Hourglass XS As seen on: Kim Kardashian Mater...
Balenciaga Le City Bag Small in Yellow Lambskin Leather
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Vibrant and instantly recognizable, the Balenciaga Le City Small Bag in yellow Arena lambskin leather celebrates one of the most iconic handbag designs in contemporary fashion. Craft...
$1,152Sale Price|20% Off
BALENCIAGA Crush Medum black textured leather gold B chain flap shoulder bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA Crush Medum black textured leather gold B chain flap shoulder bag Reference: ECLO/A00148 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Model: Crush Material: Leather Color: Black, Gol...
$924Sale Price|30% Off
BALENCIAGA Ville XXS black floral logo print top handle crossbody bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA Ville XXS black floral logo print top handle crossbody bag Reference: TGAS/B01535 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Model: Ville XXS Material: Lea...
Balenciaga Papier A4 Zip Around Tote Bag Gray Agneau Leather EUC Authentic 2013
By Balenciaga
Located in San Diego, CA
Balenciaga Papier A4 Zip Around Tote Bag Gray Agneau Leather EUC Authentic 2013 Premium Materials: Features a luxurious grey leather exterior paired with a matching grey suede and ...
Balenciaga Black Arena Lambskin Le City Backpack
By Balenciaga
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Balenciaga Black Arena Lambskin Le City Backpack SKU: 154535 MSRP: 2150.00 USD Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Excellent Condition Comments: Item is in excell...
rare Balenciaga Midnight Blue Motocross Giant Hip Mini Bag Supple Leather Studs
By Balenciaga
Located in San Diego, CA
rare vintage Balenciaga 2010 Motocross Giant Hip Mini Bag This bag features the iconic Balenciaga aesthetic, including textured silver-tone hardware ...
Balenciaga Le Cagole XS Shoulder Bag in Pink Lamb Leather
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Edgy yet playful, this Balenciaga Le Cagole XS shoulder bag in pink lamb leather reimagines Y2K-inspired style with a soft, textured finish and bold hardware detailing. Its compact s...
Balenciaga Cash Zip Card Holder in Pink Glitter
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Add a playful touch of luxury with the Balenciaga Cash Zip Card Holder in Pink Glitter, a compact essential that sparkles with modern attitude. Crafted from metallic-effect polyureth...
BALENCIAGA Explorer red nylon logo dual pocket waist belt pack crossbody bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA Explorer red nylon logo dual pocket waist belt pack crossbody bag Reference: TGAS/B01534 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Model: Explorer belt pack red Material: Nylon Co...
Balenciaga Bistro Basket Handbag NEW
By Balenciaga
Located in New York, NY
Balenciaga bistro basket handbag Comes with strap that can be removed and bag can be carried in hand.Few light marks on the pocket inside .Please see...
BALENCIAGA black faux shearling CRUSH SMALL Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Balenciaga Crush Small faux shearling bag in black combines bold texture with modern functionality. Crafted from soft curly faux shearling, the bag features a dis...
Balenciaga Women Mini Hourglasss XS Nano Bag Red Crocodile Embossed Leather
By Balenciaga
Located in Miami, FL
- Red croc embossed exterior - Magnetic closure - Comes with strap Condition: The bag is in overall great condition with no major imperfections Measurements: ( Approximate...
Balenciaga Grained Calfskin Papier A6 Zip Around Small Tote
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Founded in San Sebastian, Spain in 1918, the House of Balenciaga relocated to Paris in 1937 during the Spanish Civil war. Almost immediately Cristóbal was hailed as "the couturier of...
Balenciaga Calfskin Papier A6 Zip Around Tote
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Founded in San Sebastian, Spain in 1918, the House of Balenciaga relocated to Paris in 1937 during the Spanish Civil war. Almost immediately Cristóbal was hailed as "the couturier of...
Balenciaga Shiny Croc Embossed Calfskin Hourglass XS Top Handle
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Founded in San Sebastian, Spain in 1918, the House of Balenciaga relocated to Paris in 1937 during the Spanish Civil war. Almost immediately Cristóbal was hailed as "the couturier of...
Balenciaga Agneau Le Cagole Small Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Founded in San Sebastian, Spain in 1918, the House of Balenciaga relocated to Paris in 1937 during the Spanish Civil war. Almost immediately Cristóbal was hailed as "the couturier of...
Balenciaga Arena Lambskin Fringe Le Cagole XS Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Founded in San Sebastian, Spain in 1918, the House of Balenciaga relocated to Paris in 1937 during the Spanish Civil war. Almost immediately Cristóbal was hailed as "the couturier of...
Balenciaga Shiny Croc Embossed Calfskin Hourglass Small Top Handle
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Founded in San Sebastian, Spain in 1918, the House of Balenciaga relocated to Paris in 1937 during the Spanish Civil war. Almost immediately Cristóbal was hailed as "the couturier of...
Balenciaga Black Smooth Calfskin Leather Downtown Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Balenciaga Black Smooth Calfskin Leather Downtown Product Details Xupes Ref: CB1638 Brand: Balenciaga Model: Downtown Type: Shoulder, Crossbody Serial Number: 071355-1000-3-620310 A...
$528Sale Price|20% Off
BALENCIAGA 2017 Arena Round Air S Hobo black leather cylinder crossbody bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA 2017 Arena Round Air S Hobo black leather cylinder crossbody bag Reference: ECLO/A00161 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Model: Arena Round Air S Hobo Collection: SS2017 ...
BALENCIAGA GUCCI 2021 Hacker Jackie BB monogram web mini hobo bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA GUCCI 2021 Hacker Jackie BB monogram web mini hobo bag Reference: LNKO/A02288 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Model: Jackie Collection: GUCCI 2021 Material: Canvas, Leat...
Balenciaga Small Hourglass Leather Bag - '20s
By Balenciaga
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The Balenciaga Small Hourglass Bag is one of the house's most iconic and sought-after designs. Defined by its distinctive hourglass silhouette and curved base, this elegant piece is ...
Balenciaga Le Cagole XS Shoulder Bag in Pink Leather
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Condition: Excellent Signs of wear: No visible sign of wear., Unused or used once, but as good as new. Packaging: Dust bag Color: Pink Material: Leather leather Size: One Size One ...
Balenciaga Hourglass Small Red Leather Custom XRX Graffiti Flap Bag Gold
By Balenciaga
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition Shows normal signs of wear; slight darkening and abrasion at the corners, scratches on metal hardware, clean interior. Accessories Shoulder Strap Size Width: 23cm, Height: ...
Balenciaga Medium Touch B. Quilted Shoulder Bag in Black Leather
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Sleek and contemporary, the Medium Touch B shoulder bag from Balenciaga is crafted in supple black leather with quilted detailing for a refined yet modern edge. Its softly structured...
Balenciaga Neo Folk Messenger Bag 2011 Turquoise Suede Crossbody Y2K Moto
By Balenciaga
Located in San Diego, CA
Authentic 2011 Balenciaga Neo Folk Messenger in rare turquoise teal suede. This Y2K moto style crossbody features iconic silver-tone studs and Italian craftsmanship. Perfect everyday...
Balenciaga Messenger Le Cagole Shoulder Bag Black Leather
By Balenciaga
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: Good, normal signs of use, inside is clean, overall good color. Accessories: No Accessories size: Wid...
BALENCIAGA blue green LOGO TARTAN BB CHAIN MEDIUM ROUND Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Balenciaga BB Medium Chain Quilted Tartan Shoulder Bag in petrol, yellow, blue and off-white wool featuring gold-tone chain shoulder-strap and BB metal logo at front. ...
BALENCIAGA black distressed leather GIANT MONEY Continental Wallet
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Balenciaga 'Giant Money' continental wallet in black distressed leather featuring gold-tone hardware. Opens with a magnetic button under the flap. Lined in black leath...
BALENCIAGA 2019 Demna Hourglass Small black smooth leather B flap bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA 2019 Demna Hourglass Small black smooth leather gold B flap top handle bag Reference: ECLO/A00233 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Model: Hourglass Small Top Handle Bag C...
Balenciaga Black Calfskin Medium Crush On You Double-Sided Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Condition: Balenciaga carry tote bag shopping bag black leather Italy，Minor wear on the corners. Accessories: Dust bag size: Width:37cm,height:25cm Designer: Balenciaga Model: crush ...
BALENCIAGA metallic silver leather 2019 MINI SHOPPING TOTE PHONE Case Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Balenciaga Mini Shopping Tote phone case is crafted in metallic silver leather. The design features two black tubular lambskin leather handles and a contrasting b...
Balenciaga, east west small shopper tote
By Balenciaga
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Balenciaga, east west small shopper tote in off white. The item is new with dustbag and booklets.
Balenciaga Gray Leather Silver Hardware Crush Chain Medium Flap Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Brand: Balenciaga Gender: Ladies Length: 12.00 inches Height: 9.00 inches Width: 4.00 inches Weight: 930.00 grams Balenciaga Gray Leather Silver Hardware Crush Chain Flap Shoul...
$1,103Sale Price|30% Off
Balenciaga 33cm blue leather structure handle bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Sheung Wan, HK
- Balenciaga blue leather structure handle bag. Classic in a very nice rare blue colour leather "Birkin" style handbag. - Boxy shape. - Gold hardware turnlock flap closure. - F...
Balenciaga Barbes East West Shopper in White Leather
By Balenciaga
Located in Houston, TX
Balenciaga Barbes East West Shopper in White Leather Condition: Very good Signs of wear: Minor sign of wear or markings., Unused or used once, but as good as new. Packaging: None Col...
Balenciaga, Marble tote bag in black
By Balenciaga
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Balenciaga, Marble tote bag in black. The item is in very good condition. Small damage on the coating on the top of the bag and some small stains on the leather. Comes with dustbag a...
Balenciaga Arena Wheeled Suitcase Rolling Carry-on Luggage Trolley Leather Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Miami, FL
Balenciaga 2013 Rare Limited Edition Periwinkle Blue Jacynthe Wheeled Carry-On Balenciaga Wheeled Carry-On, features soft lambskin and distinctive age...
Balenciaga Le Cagole Green Leather Croc Embossed Shoulder Bag circa 2022
By Balenciaga
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Balenciaga Le Cagole Green Leather Croc Embossed XS Shoulder Bag from circa 2022 is a striking accessory that combines bold design with luxurious craftsmanship. Crafted from dark green leather with an eye-catching croc-effect embossing, this bag exudes a sophisticated yet edgy vibe. Its compact size makes it perfect for carrying essentials while adding a pop of color to any outfit. The bag features a sleek, modern silhouette with a single shoulder strap that is adjustable for versatile styling. The high-quality leather and meticulous embossing reflect Balenciaga’s commitment to craftsmanship and contemporary design. This statement piece pairs seamlessly with other high-end designer items such as Valentino’s rockstud heels...
Gucci X Balenciaga "The Hacker Project" Small Horsebit 1955 Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga, Gucci
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Gucci X Balenciaga "The Hacker Project" Small Horsebit 1955 Shoulder Bag is a remarkable collaboration that beautifully merges the distinct identities of two iconic fashion house...
$304Sale Price|20% Off
Balenciaga Blue City Clip Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Gazzaniga (BG), IT
Leather Blue color Zip closure External zip pocket Cm 33 x 22 (12,99 x 8,66 inches) With dustbag Express shipping included in the price
Balenciaga Silver Cross Body 2 Way Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Balenciaga new mirror silver leather 2 way bag. Comes with adjustable and detachable shoulder strap. Shoulder strap drop 18" / 21" Includes ori...
Balenciaga Le Cagole XS Graffiti leather shoulder bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Amman, JO
Balenciaga Le Cagole XS Graffiti leather shoulder bag A true statement piece from Balenciaga, this Le Cagole mini shoulder bag embodies the brand’s signature rebellious edge. Design...
Balenciaga 2022 Rhinestone Embellished Suede Small Hourglass Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Balenciaga Rhinestone Embellished Suede Small Hourglass Product Details Xupes Ref: HB4738 Brand: Balenciaga Model: Small Hourglass Type: Top Han...
NEW Balenciaga Black Leather Souvenir Belt Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Brossard, QC
Grained goatskin bag in black featuring embossed logo pattern throughout. Adjustable leather and curb chain belt-style strap featuring carved charms and pin-buckle fastening. Logo st...
Balenciaga Cream Leather The Day One Hobo Bag 18ba53s
By Balenciaga
Located in Dix hills, NY
Date Code/Serial Number: 140442-2577 213048 Made In: Italy Measurements: Length: 16" Width: 4.5" Height: 13.5" Handle Drop: 3.5" OVERALL GOOD+ CONDITION ( 7.25/10 or B+ ) Acces...
Balenciaga White Graffiti Logo Print Ville Leather XXS Mini Top Handle Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Balenciaga White Graffiti Logo Print Ville Leather XXS Mini Top Handle Bag is a striking and contemporary accessory that effortlessly combines edgy street style with high-fashion...
Balenciaga Pouch Black Crocodile Pattern Shiny Calfskin Leather With Strap
By Balenciaga
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Balenciaga Pouch Black Crocodile Pattern Shiny Calfskin Leather With Strap These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. CONDITION: EXCELLENT Light signs of wea...
Balenciaga Purple Leather Triple Tour Bracelet
By Balenciaga
Located in Amman, JO
Balenciaga Purple Leather Triple Tour Bracelet Wrap your wrist in bold elegance with this Balenciaga Purple Leather Triple Tour Bracelet — a signature piece that fuses edgy Parisian...
An integral part of fashion, handbags and purses have been indispensable accessories ever since we began to carry around personal items. Level of craftsmanship, style and shape matters — from coin purses in ancient Greece to early 20th-century opera bags and onward, handbags have evolved considerably over the years to meet our needs and desires, whether or not you happen to be prioritizing functionality over a flashy exterior.
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First released in 1997, Fendi's Baguette rose to fame along with Carrie Bradshaw, the Sex and the City character portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker. Recently, the design has seen such a resurgence in popularity that Fendi has reissued it.
They are part of design history, so owning a handbag has meaning. As New York–based fashion historian Sarah C. Byrd says, “You have made the choice to invest in this piece because you understand the value of it in the past and in the future to come.”
From a 1980s Chanel black leather quilted mini buckle bag to the rare Hermès Birkin 30cm Himalayan with diamond hardware to a range of 19th century bags, find a rich variety of vintage and designer handbags and purses spanning numerous brands on 1stDibs — seasonal “It” designation no longer needed.