We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
Made for stylish days about town, this vintage Balenciaga First in pink textured leather adds a playful pop of colour to brunches, gallery visits or evening drinks. Carry by the braided top handles or go hands‑free with the detachable strap, with zip pockets for easy access to essentials.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What typically fits inside the Balenciaga First? A: With approximate dimensions of 33 × 18 × 6 cm, it comfortably holds a smartphone, compact wallet or cardholder, keys, sunglasses in a slim case, and a few small cosmetics. It is sized for daily essentials rather than laptops or full‑size tablets. Please refer to the Measurements on this page for exact sizing.
Q: Can the First be worn crossbody? A: The First includes a thin, detachable shoulder strap. On most vintage examples the strap is best suited to shoulder carry and will sit high if worn crossbody. Please check the strap drop under Measurements to gauge how it will fit you personally.
Q: How does the First differ from the City? A: The First is the smaller, slimmer member of Balenciaga’s Motorcycle family, retaining hallmark details such as braided handles, long leather pullers, front zip pocket and aged hardware, but scaled for essentials. The City is larger with a more relaxed, slouchy profile and suits those who need more capacity for everyday use.
Q: What leather is used and how does it age? A: Classic First bags are typically crafted in Balenciaga’s softly distressed lambskin; some early seasons were made in goatskin. The leather is lightweight and designed to soften and drape over time. Care by wiping with a soft, slightly damp cloth and conditioning sparingly with a lambskin‑appropriate product. Avoid rain, oils and prolonged direct sunlight to preserve the colour and finish.
Q: How should I care for the tassels and zip pullers? A: Keep tassels straight and dry, avoid bending them sharply, and store the bag loosely stuffed so pullers aren’t compressed. If they feel dry, test a minute amount of a lambskin‑safe conditioner on a hidden area first.
Q: How do I authenticate or date a vintage First? A: Authentic First bags usually feature a leather brand tag with a style code and, on many seasons, a letter on the reverse denoting season/year. Many Firsts carry the style code 103208. Zips on vintage pieces are often by Lampo, and the studs/buckles have a characteristic aged finish. At A Retro Tale, every item is verified through multi‑point checks of materials, stamping, stitching and hardware.
Q: What is included with this item? A: Everything included is listed in the product information section on this page. For this piece, the detachable shoulder strap is included. If a dust bag, mirror or other items are not listed there, they are not included.
Q: Is the First still produced? A: The original First is considered a vintage design and is most commonly found pre‑owned today. Balenciaga has released modern interpretations of its Motorcycle line in recent seasons, but collectors prize earlier Firsts on the resale market.
Q: Is the colour true to the photos? A: The bag is a pink tone; actual colour may vary slightly due to lighting and individual screen settings. Please review all photos and measurements, and contact us if you would like additional images in natural light.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Balenciaga
/ Bags
/ Crossbody bags
1 015 £
41%
off retail price
• Pink textured leather
• Aged brass hardware
• Dual braided top handles
• Detachable flat shoulder strap
• Black fabric lining with one internal zip pocket
• One external zip pocket
• Top zip closure
• Vintage
The authenticity of this bag has been checked and verified by our experts who have over 10 years of experience in vintage and luxury bags. We also use a well established 3rd party authentication tool to verify our bags.
