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 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 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.
Made for modern city life, this vintage Balenciaga Giant Mute City Bag in blue distressed leather transitions seamlessly from office hours to evening plans. Pair it with sharp tailoring for meetings or denim at the weekend; a versatile companion for travel, shopping trips and casual dinners.
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 are the dimensions of this Balenciaga Giant Mute City bag and how does it carry? A: Approximate measurements are 37 cm W × 24 cm H × 13.5 cm D with a 9 cm handle drop and an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap with about a 47 cm drop. It can be hand‑carried by the rolled top handles, worn on the shoulder, or cross‑body on many frames (it will sit higher on taller builds).
Q: What typically fits inside? A: The City’s soft, slightly slouchy structure makes it roomy for daily use. It comfortably holds a long wallet, phone, keys, sunglasses, a small cosmetics pouch and a compact water bottle. Slim devices such as a 12–13 inch laptop or tablet can fit horizontally in a thin sleeve; anything larger or very bulky may be tight due to the top zip and curved opening.
Q: What does “Giant Mute City” mean? A: “City” refers to Balenciaga’s classic moto tote. “Giant” denotes the larger studded hardware style, typically the later Giant 12 scale seen across many 2010s releases. “Mute City” is a streamlined update introduced around the mid‑2010s that keeps the moto studs and tassel details but with a cleaner, more minimalist look; many versions include discreet exterior pockets and a detachable strap.
Q: What type and colour of hardware does this piece have? A: This bag features silver‑tone giant hardware with the characteristic dome studs and buckled details. Light surface scratches are normal with gentle wear; on this piece the hardware is shiny with light scratches as noted.
Q: What leather is used and how should I care for it? A: Balenciaga’s City line is known for its soft, distressed leather that develops character with wear. Wipe with a clean, slightly damp, lint‑free cloth; let it air dry; then condition sparingly with a leather‑appropriate conditioner when needed. Avoid heavy rain, oils, alcohol‑based products and prolonged direct sunlight to preserve colour and texture. Store loosely stuffed in a breathable dust bag to help maintain shape.
Q: Does this bag come with a shoulder strap and other accessories? A: Yes. This item includes a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap, mirror, dust bag and brand booklet. Everything included is listed under Accessories on this page; if it is not listed, it is not included.
Q: Is this considered a vintage or discontinued style? A: The original City is an early‑2000s icon, and the Mute City is an evolution from the 2010s era. While Balenciaga has since introduced new interpretations like the modern Le City, pre‑owned City and Mute City pieces such as this one are sought after as archival/vintage‑era designs.
Q: How durable is the leather and hardware for everyday use? A: The leather is intentionally supple and will soften further, so minor creasing and patina over time are expected. The giant studs are sturdy but can show hairline scratches with normal use. To keep the bag looking its best, avoid overloading, rotate carry between handles and strap, and protect the corners when placing it down.
Q: How do you authenticate this bag? A: Every item at A Retro Tale undergoes a multi‑point inspection by in‑house experts, including assessment of materials, stitching, hardware, stamps and interior tags/codes, with cross‑checks against known references. We stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell and can provide additional photos or details on request.
Q: Will the strap work cross‑body for me? A: The strap drop is about 47 cm, which suits shoulder wear and a higher cross‑body position on many people. If you are very tall or prefer a low‑slung cross‑body, the bag may sit higher than you’re used to; using the longest hole on the adjustable strap will give the maximum drop.
SHIPPING TO THE US
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.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
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 UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 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 all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
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
• Blue distressed leather
• Silver-tone giant hardware
• Dual rolled top handles
• Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap
• Black fabric lining with one internal 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.
