Balenciaga: the history, iconic bags and the allure of luxury vintage

Dear Vintagine, if you're here, it's because the world of luxury bags flows through your veins more than your morning coffee. And who are we to argue? Today we're talking about Balenciaga, a brand that has written (and rewritten) fashion history, with iconic bags, sudden changes of course, and a few media missteps. But above all, we'll tell you how to find its creations on VivoVintage, the luxury second-hand paradise where you can buy and sell your fashion gems without having to take out a mortgage.

A journey through time: from its origins to its most controversial runways

It all started in 1919, when Cristóbal Balenciaga opened his first atelier in Spain. His talent was so out of this world that they called him "the architect of fashion". And with a title like that, you can only revolutionize everything. Balenciaga then moved to Paris and became the idol of designers like Dior and Givenchy. In short, if haute couture exists today, he's partly to thank for it.

But let's get to the present day. After years of refined elegance, Balenciaga took a decidedly more street and daring turn under the creative direction of Demna Gvasalia. With futuristic sneakers and handbags that look like plastic bags (but cost as much as a holiday in the Maldives), the brand reinvented itself, attracting as much hype as criticism.

And then, there was the scandal. In 2022, an ill-fated advertising campaign plunged the brand into a media storm, leading it to issue a public apology and overhaul its image. Today, Balenciaga is undergoing a major reputational makeover, trying to win back the hearts (and wallets) of its fans.

The most iconic Balenciaga bags

Now for the main event: the bags. Because, let's face it, Balenciaga has created designs that make you dream. And if you want to get your hands on one without breaking the bank, VivoVintage is the place to go.

• City Bag (or Motorcycle Bag): the bag that made Balenciaga the forbidden dream of the 2000s. With soft leather, studs, and a worn-in look perfect for Y2K vibes, it's still one of the most coveted bags today.

• Le Cagole: the modern version of the City, more extreme, more exaggerated, more Balenciaga. With chains, charms, and that rock-chic touch that drives anyone who loves to stand out crazy.

• Hourglass: the new classic. With its structured silhouette and oversized B logo, it's the symbol of today's Balenciaga: bold, recognizable, and, of course, viral.

  

• Neo Classic: for those who love tradition with a modern twist. A perfect mix of heritage and innovation.

Balenciaga and luxury second-hand: why buy (and sell) on VivoVintage

If you've always dreamed of a City Bag or an Hourglass but your bank account says "try again later", luxury second-hand is the solution. On VivoVintage, you can find authentic, carefully selected Balenciaga bags at much more affordable prices.

And what if you have a Balenciaga in your wardrobe that you no longer use? Sell it! The vintage market is more vibrant than ever, and giving luxury accessories a second life is not only smart, but also eco-friendly. Less waste, more style.

Balenciaga today: hype or timeless icon?

After the scandal, Balenciaga is trying to get back on track with collections that mix innovation and sobriety (more or less). The brand is still a magnet for fashion lovers, and its bags continue to hold a very high value on the second-hand market.

So, Vintagine, if you want a piece of fashion history in your wardrobe (without bleeding money), you know where to look: VivoVintage. There you can find your dream Balenciaga, or get rid of the one you no longer use. Because fashion passes, but style remains. And vintage? That never dies.