PHOTO COURTESY OF BALENCIAGA
Originally released in 2001 as the Motorcycle City Bag, Balenciaga’s Le City defined moto-grunge edge with its logo-less, relaxed and effortlessly cool attitude. Now it returns with that familiar slouchy silhouette, distinctive metal studs and a vintage-biker-jacket spirit that still feels undeniably current.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BALENCIAGA
The early-aughts icon slips seamlessly back into the spotlight, most recently on the arm of Asia’s first Balenciaga ambassador, Thai actor PP Krit, who carries it with enviable nonchalance. More celebrity fans follow, from K-pop group Allday Project’s Annie Moon to ‘Alice in Borderland’ star Ayaka Miyoshi and Chinese actor Chen Feiyu, each embracing the relaunched style in their own way.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BALENCIAGA
Over the years, Balenciaga has revisited the City several times. Most notable was the 2021 debut of Le Cagole, a half-moon baguette that offered a hyper-Y2K spin while honouring the original hardware. Then in 2024 came the official modernised relaunch of Le City, merging archival attitude with a sharper, more refined outlook.
Today, Le City retains the spirit of the OG while introducing a sleeker, more structured silhouette. Fusing luxurious craftsmanship with a maximalist sensibility, the meticulous 25-panel construction delivers flexibility and durability. Simultaneously, a removable strap for crossbody or shoulder wear enhances everyday versatility.
The line-up spans a range of sizes, starting from nano at 18.5 cm by 12 cm. Then come mini at 24 cm by 16 cm, and small at 30 cm by 19 cm. Finally, medium and large come in at 38.5 cm by 24 cm and 46 cm by 29 cm respectively. Continuously evolving, they feature new materials such as buttery lambskin, velvety suede and even washed denim. Each finish brings a different facet of the bag’s character to life.
Whether you favour timeless black, brown and white or gravitate towards petal pink, green or metallised silver, Balenciaga’s Le City adapts with ease. A true icon stays iconic, no matter how you style it.
