Once dismissed as an unlikely “It” bag, the Balenciaga City Bag is making a high-fashion comeback, reminding us why the design is as timeless as it is beloved. Launched in 2001 under then-creative director Nicolas Ghesquière, the slouchy, edgy tote wasn’t an instant hit. Its lack of flashy logos and heavy hardware didn’t align with early 2000s maximalism, but Kate Moss, ever ahead of the style curve, saw its potential. Carrying the crinkled leather bag with her iconic leopard prints and skinny jeans, Moss quickly turned it into the off-duty “It” accessory — and soon, the likes of the Olsens, the Hiltons, and Lindsay Lohan were toting their Cities all over Hollywood and beyond.
Fast forward to 2024, and Demna Gvasalia has breathed new life into this cult favorite with the Le City Bag Campaign. Featuring stars like Kate Moss, Nicole Kidman, Amelia Gray, Kit Butler, Juyeon, Mona Tougaard, and Yang Chaoyue, the campaign taps into the City’s status as a classic that defies trends. With its generous size and crinkled leather, the City Bag feels refreshingly rugged amid a sea of polished designs. It’s practical yet chic, a bag you’d be unafraid to carry on the subway thanks to its durable leather, multi-pocketed design, and effortless, over-the-shoulder strap.
The City’s return to the spotlight isn’t just nostalgic—it’s a testament to the timeless appeal of bags that get better with age. For those who want a little more edge in their everyday carryall, Balenciaga’s City Bag is ready for yet another reign.
