Balenciaga City Giant Bag

Q: What typically fits inside this Balenciaga City Giant (Medium)?
A: With approximate measurements of 38 × 24 × 14 cm, it comfortably holds daily essentials such as a long wallet, phone, keys, make-up pouch, a small water bottle, and A4 documents placed horizontally. Many owners also carry a 13-inch laptop horizontally or at a slight angle; larger 14–15-inch laptops are unlikely to fit. Please compare your device’s dimensions with the measurements on this page.

Q: Can the included strap be worn crossbody?
A: The original City strap on medium/Giant models is designed for shoulder carry rather than crossbody. With an approximate drop of 24 cm on this piece, most people will find it too short for true crossbody wear. Some owners source longer aftermarket straps, but this listing includes the original detachable shoulder strap only.

Q: Is the shoulder strap adjustable?
A: No. The strap supplied with the classic medium City is detachable but generally non-adjustable. The drop on this bag is approximately 24 cm.

Q: What does “Giant” hardware mean on a City bag?
A: Giant refers to the oversized metal studs and hardware used on certain City models. Earlier versions featured very large studs (often referred to by collectors as G21), later followed by a slightly smaller “Giant 12” style. This bag features silver-tone Giant hardware, giving the City its distinctive, bold look.

Q: Will the City Medium fit a 13-inch laptop or tablet?
A: Yes, most 13-inch laptops and larger tablets fit when inserted horizontally; they typically do not fit standing upright due to the 24 cm height. For devices with thicker cases or 14-inch screens, fit can be tight—please check exact dimensions.

Q: Where can I find the serial or style code on a Balenciaga City bag?
A: On most classic City bags, the style/serial code is located on the reverse side of the interior leather label that reads “Balenciaga Paris” (sometimes on a metal plate in older seasons). The code includes a style number and a season letter. If you’d like close-up photos of the code on this bag, our team can provide them on request.

Q: How do you authenticate this piece?
A: Every item at A Retro Tale undergoes multi-point authentication by our in-house experts, examining leather quality, stitching, hardware, interior labels and serial/style codes, and overall construction. We stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell and are happy to share additional details upon request.

Q: What accessories are included with this bag?
A: This item includes a detachable shoulder strap and the signature clip-on mirror. If a dust bag, box or authenticity card is not listed under Accessories, it is not included.

Q: What leather is the Balenciaga City made from, and what care is recommended for this piece?
A: City bags have been produced in different leathers over the years. This specific bag features a blue leather body with brown patent leather trim. For day-to-day care, wipe the leather gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth and avoid harsh cleaners. For the patent trim, store the bag in a breathable dust bag away from darker fabrics to minimise colour transfer, keep it out of prolonged heat/sunlight, and avoid pressing it tightly against other items when stored.

Q: Is the Balenciaga City still produced today?
A: The original Motorcycle/City design dates back to the early 2000s and has seen various iterations. While the classic City as produced in the 2000s–2010s is no longer a core seasonal staple, Balenciaga has released updated takes like the Neo Classic and Le City. This listing is for an original-style vintage City with Giant hardware.