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 black leather 2024 RODEO LARGE FLAP Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Balenciaga Rodeo Large leather flap bag in black is crafted from smooth, high-quality leather, offering a sleek and modern aesthetic. The spacious large silhouett...
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 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 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 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 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 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 black crackled leather SMALL BAZAR Tote Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Balenciaga Small Bazar shoulder bag in black crinkled calfskin. Lined in black canvas with one black leather zip pocket against the back and an open pocket against the...
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 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...
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 B. Navy Croc Small Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Balenciaga B. Navy Croc Small Shoulder Bag SKU: 152874 Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Very Good Condition Comments: Item is in very good condition with minor...
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...
Navy blue leather shoulder bag Balenciaga Circa 1970's
By Balenciaga
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Navy blue leather shoulder bag. One gold metal nail closure in the middle front. Black leather lining. Buckle on the shoulder strap ( adjustable) SIZE 23cm X 20cm X 5cm Shoulder st...
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 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...
Balenciaga Green Classic City 2way Moto Bag 1130ba19
By Balenciaga
Located in Dix hills, NY
Date Code/Serial Number: 115748-9770 001013 Made In: Italy Measurements: Length: 14.5" Width: 5" Height: 9.5" Shoulder Handle Drop: 7" Handle Drop: 4" OVERALL GOOD CONDITION ( ...
Balenciaga Black Shiny Aged Calfskin Leather Mini Monaco
By Balenciaga
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Balenciaga Black Shiny Aged Calfskin Leather Mini Monaco Product Details Xupes Ref: HB6074 Brand: Balenciaga Model: Mini Monaco Type: Shoulder, Crossbody Serial Number: 7929771000M6...
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 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...
Gucci X Balenciaga "The Hacker Project" Small Horsebit 1955 Shoulder Bag
By Gucci, Balenciaga
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...
Borsa a Tracolla Balenciaga Le Cagole Mini Bianca
By Balenciaga
Located in Torre Del Greco, IT
Borsa firmata Balenciaga, modello Le Cagole, misura Mini, realizzata in pelle bianca con hardware argentati. Dotata di una chiusura superiore a zip, internamente rivestita in tessuto...
Balenciaga White Distressed Calfskin Medium Raver Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Balenciaga White Distressed Calfskin Medium Raver Shoulder Bag SKU: 151053 MSRP: 1890.00 USD Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Excellent Condition Comments: Ite...
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 metallic gold Arena distressed leather LE CAGOLE XS Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Balenciaga Le Cagole XS shoulder bag in cracked metallic gold Aren lambskin leather. The bag opens with a top zipper and is lined in black canvas. and is adorned with ...
BALENCIAGA grey leather LOCK Shoulder Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Balenciaga Lock Shoulder Bag in grey smooth calfskin featuring gold-tone hardware. Opens with a curved front flap and turn-lock to a leather lined interior that is div...
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 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...
H 6.9 in W 2.3 in L 9.4 in
Saint Laurent Womens Envelope Medium Quilted Textured Leather Shoulder Bag Black
By Saint Laurent
Located in Miami, FL
- Black exterior - Gold colored hardware - Comes with dustbag Condition: The bag is brand new with box Measurements: ( Approximately In Inches ) 9.4 L x 6.9 H x 2.3 W S...
Hermès Craie Clemence Evelyne III PM GHW
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Hermès Craie Clemence Evelyne III PM GHW SKU: Z152317 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Designed in 1978 by Evelyne Bertrand, the Evelyne shoulder bag from ...
H 13 in W 17 in D 5.5 in
Chanel 2011 Graffiti Watercolor Limited Edition Tote Turquoise Nylon Resort Bag
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel Graffiti Watercolor Limited Edition Tote Turquoise Nylon Resort Bag Year: 2011 Silver hardware Removable brown double leather strap Double interwove...
H 7.09 in W 3.15 in L 11.42 in
1970s Celine Blue and Red Triomphe Shoulder Bag
By Celine
Located in Paris, FR
Celine « Triomphe » Blue canvas and red leather shoulder bag featuring an iconic « Triomphe » front detail, a top zip opening, a red leather adjustable strap and an inside logo stamp...
Chanel Quilted Black Caviar Skin Shoulder Bag / Tote, Golden Chain & Hardware
By Chanel
Located in New York, NY
Chanel Quilted Black Caviar Skin Shoulder Bag / Tote, Golden Chain & Hardware Material: Leather Vintage Code ID 0548030 Color: Black Description Chanel Tote From the Late 1980's - E...
Hermes Lindy 26 Black Clemence Leather Bag Palladium Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers an Hermes Lindy 26 bag featured in Black. Plush Clemence leather. Crisp with Palladium hardware. Functional as a top handle bag o...
H 8.27 in D 4.73 in L 9.45 in
CHRISTIAN DIOR Medium Lady Dior Bag Black Patent Cannage Calfskin W/Box
By Christian Dior
Located in London, GB
This medium Lady Dior bag is one of the most iconic bag from the House of Christian Dior introduced in the 1990s and became popular by the late Princess Diana. It is handcrafted with Stitched padded lambskin, a distinct “cannage” in patent leather. The bag is adorned with a set of ‘D.I.O.R.’ rich gold tone charms–a reference to the good-luck charms Monsieur Dior, an ever-superstitious couturier, carried with him. A removable leather strap, one interior zip pocket. Zipped closure with a gold tone oval CD jewel pull out tag. This medium lady Dior bag can be carried out by hand, or worn over the shoulder or crossbody. A “Must-Have”, add an iconic Lady Dior cannage bag to your wardrobe. The Princess Diana can be seen in the photos carrying a Lady Dior Patent bag...
H 6 in W 3 in L 10 in
New Chanel Mint Coco Cuba Sequins Bag Blue in Box
By Chanel
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Chanel mint condition blue coco Cuba limited editions sequins flap bag. Handle drop, 9"/17"L. Comes with hologram, id and original Box
H 10.04 in W 5.32 in L 13 in
CHANEL Grand Shopping Tote (GST) Bag Black Caviar with Silver Hardware 2012
By Chanel
Located in Huddersfield, GB
CHANEL Grand Shopping Tote (GST) Black Caviar with Silver Hardware 2012. This bag is in pristine condition, the bag still holds its original shape, and the hardware is still very sh...
H 10.04 in W 5.32 in L 13 in
CHANEL Grand Shopping Tote (GST) Bag Beige Caviar with Silver Hardware 2013
By Chanel
Located in Huddersfield, GB
CHANEL Grand Shopping Tote (GST) Beige Caviar with Silver Hardware 2013. This bag is in pristine condition, the bag still holds its shape well, and the hardware is still very shiny....
H 10.04 in W 5.32 in L 13 in
CHANEL Grand Shopping Tote (GST) Bag Black Caviar with Silver Hardware 2014
By Chanel
Located in Huddersfield, GB
CHANEL Grand Shopping Tote (GST) Black Caviar with Silver Hardware 2014. This bag is in excellent condition, the bag still holds its original shape, and the hardware is still very s...
H 10.04 in W 5.32 in L 13 in
CHANEL Grand Shopping Tote (GST) Bag Black Caviar with Silver Hardware 2013
By Chanel
Located in Huddersfield, GB
CHANEL Grand Shopping Tote (GST) Black Caviar with Silver Hardware 2013. This bag is in excellent condition, the bag still holds its original shape, and the hardware is still very s...
Balenciaga Black Agneau Classic Velo Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Balenciaga Black Agneau Classic Velo Bag SKU: 152005 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Inspired by some of Balenciaga's most celebrated bag designs, the Neo...
rare BALENCIAGA 2022 Runway Rodeo Double Boot BB logo boot shape shoulder bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
rare BALENCIAGA 2022 Runway Rodeo Double Boot black BB logo boot shape shoulder bag Reference: TGAS/F00631 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Material: Leather Color: Black, Silver Pa...
H 9 in D 5 in L 15 in
Balenciaga Giant 12 Gold City Bag in Ivory Leather with Shoulder Strap + Mirror
By Balenciaga
Located in Kingston, NY
An iconic piece from Balenciaga’s coveted handbag line, the Giant 12 Gold City in ivory leather exemplifies the house’s signature balance of edgy hardware and timeless luxury. Crafte...
BALENCIAGA black distressed leather GIANT CITY MINI Crossbody Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Balenciaga City Mini bag is crafted in black distressed Arena lambskin leather with signature silver-tone Giant 12 hardware. The iconic design features two top ha...
BALENCIAGA black distressed leather CLASSIC CITY Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Balenciaga 'Classic City' bag is crafted in black distressed leather, showcasing the brand's iconic edgy elegance. It features a front zip pocket, antiqued brass ...
Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquière FW 2004 Black Aviator Helmet Bag
By Nicolas Ghesquière, Balenciaga
Located in Toronto, Ontario
A true collector’s rarity from Balenciaga’s Fall 2004 collection, this aviator helmet bag reflects Nicolas Ghesquière’s signature fusion of high-concept utility and futurist elegance...
Balenciaga Grey Leather Bucket Papier Plate Drawstring Bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Rome, Rome
This beautiful Bag will come with a Certificate of Authenticity provided by Entrupy. The certificate will be provided at no further cost Introducing a timeless treasure, the Balenciaga Grey Leather Papier Plate Bucket Bag-an iconic blend of craftsmanship and sophistication. This stunning piece is a model of both elegance and function, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of vintage and second-hand luxury. Crafted in supple grey leather, it boasts two side vertical zips for added style and utility, a single looping handle strap for easy hand-carry, and a removable, adjustable shoulder strap to offer versatile wearing options. The bag features a convenient drawstring closure, ensuring your essentials are safely secured. Inside, the rich grey suede lining adds a touch of opulence, complete with a side pocket for easy organization. The "Balenciaga Paris" tag inside, with its 'Made in Italy' engraving and serial number on the reverse, signifies its authenticity and exclusivity. A unique addition to this bag is the charming hanging mirror, adding an unexpected yet practical detail to the design. With its original retail price of 1445 EUR, this Balenciaga bucket bag...
H 3.9 in W 7.4 in D 2.7 in
Balenciaga Gossip Wallet On Chain WOC Bag - Croc Embossed Calf Leather in Black
By Balenciaga
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Balenciaga Gossip Wallet On Chain WOC Bag. Additional information: Material: Calf leather - Embossed crcodile Extra supple crocodile embossed calfsk...
H 8.5 in W 16.5 in D 7 in
Balenciaga Part-Time Giant Shoulder Bag Leather in Green
By Balenciaga
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Balenciaga Part-Time Giant Shoulder Bag. Clean interior with minor marks. Rubbing on the piping. Does not included the mirror. Additional information: Material: Leather Color: Gree...
H 13.5 in W 13.5 in D 6 in
Balenciaga Triangle Leather Bag Green with 2 straps
By Balenciaga
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Balenciaga Triangle Leather Bag Green with 2 straps. Includes 2 crossbody straps. Black leather interior with zippered compartment. Additional information: Material: Leather Color:...
Size: ONE SIZE ( see description ).
1st Edition Motorcycle BALENCIAGA Mud Brown / Khaki Leather City Shoulder Bag
By Nicolas Ghesquière, Balenciaga
Located in Sheffield, GB
1st Edition BALENCIAGA Mud Brown / Khaki coloured natural Leather 'Motorcycle bag'. Features; 2 Top handles, detachable shoulder strap, Zip closure top, Black cotton lining, Various...
BALENCIAGA 2024 Rodeo Small black smooth leather small shoulder bag
By Balenciaga
Located in Hong Kong, NT
BALENCIAGA 2024 Rodeo Small black smooth leather small shoulder bag Reference: NKLL/A00362 Brand: Balenciaga Designer: Demna Model: Rodeo Small Material: Leather Color: Black, Gold P...