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
A versatile choice for weekday commutes and weekend city strolls, this vintage Balenciaga Classic City in brown adds effortless edge to denim by day and sharp tailoring by night.
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 Motocross Classic City? A: With approximate measurements of 36 × 24 × 10 cm on this piece, it comfortably carries A4 documents, a tablet or slim 13-inch laptop in a sleeve, a long wallet, phone, keys, cosmetics pouch, and a small water bottle. The top zip closure keeps contents secure and the front zip pocket is handy for items you need quickly.
Q: Can the shoulder strap be worn crossbody? A: The original Classic City strap is detachable but not adjustable and is intended for shoulder carry. On this bag the strap drop is around 24 cm, which is typically too short for true crossbody wear; some owners use strap extenders if they prefer a longer drop.
Q: What does “Motocross Classic City” mean? A: “Motocross” (also called Motorcycle) refers to Balenciaga’s iconic line introduced in the early 2000s. The Classic City is the signature medium-sized style distinguished by braided top handles, knotted leather zip pulls, stud-and-buckle details, an external zip pocket, and a matching leather-framed mirror.
Q: What leather is this, and how does it age? A: Classic City bags are most commonly crafted in Balenciaga’s Arena lambskin with a deliberately distressed finish that softens and develops a natural slouch and patina over time. Earlier years also saw goatskin used in some seasons. Minor creasing and softening are normal characteristics of this leather.
Q: Will a 13-inch laptop fit in this bag? A: Yes—most slim 13-inch laptops fit horizontally or at a slight angle. For protection and to preserve the lining, we recommend using a padded sleeve.
Q: Is the strap removable and what are the handle drops on this item? A: Yes, the shoulder strap is removable and the rolled handles are designed for hand or crook-of-arm carry. For this bag the handle drop is about 14 cm and the strap drop about 24 cm; please refer to the Measurements on this page for exact figures.
Q: What accessories are included with this item? A: This piece comes with a detachable shoulder strap and a matching leather-framed mirror. Only items listed under Accessories are included; if a dust bag or card isn’t listed, it is not part of the sale.
Q: How should I care for vintage Balenciaga lambskin? A: Wipe gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth and allow to air-dry away from heat. Avoid oils, alcohol-based cleaners or heavy conditioners that may darken the leather. Store lightly stuffed in a breathable dust bag, keep tassels untangled, and avoid prolonged sunlight and moisture. Hardware should be wiped with a soft, dry cloth only.
Q: How can I tell the production season or model code on a City bag? A: Inside, the leather brand tag usually has style numbers on the front and two rows of numbers on the reverse; a letter in the code typically indicates season. These numbers help date the bag and support authentication when reviewed alongside materials, stitching and hardware details.
Q: How does this vintage Classic City differ from today’s Le City or Neo Classic? A: The vintage Classic City has a softer, slouchier silhouette with aged-look studs and a fixed-length shoulder strap. The current Le City revisits the icon with updated proportions and longer, adjustable straps, while the Neo Classic offers a more structured, edged design. Choose the Classic for the original Y2K drape and patina, or the newer lines for a more structured, modern feel.
Q: Is the colour exactly as shown? A: The colour is brown; tones may vary slightly due to lighting and screen settings. We photograph carefully to represent the item faithfully—please review all images for the most accurate view.
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
/ Classic City
1 015 £
• Brown distressed leather
• Aged brass hardware
• Dual rolled top handles and a detachable shoulder strap
• Black fabric lining with one internal zip pocket
• One external zip pocket
• Top zip closure
• Comes with a matching leather-framed mirror
• 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.
