In 2001, Nicolas Ghesquière (the then-creative director for Balenciaga), released his line of motorcycle bags. The opposite of everything that was popular at the time, the board at Balenciaga did not immediately approve of his designs. As small, structured, logo shoulder bags (like Fendi’s Baguette and Dior’s Saddle) were the reigning ‘IT bags’, they did not think his soft, slouchy, discreet styles would sell, so Ghesquièregifted his 25 prototypes to notables in the fashion industry. After Kate Moss declared one of them a must-have, the board quickly reversed its decision and allowed the motorcycle bags to go into production. 

Following the success of the line’s original silhouettes (the First and City), Ghesquièrecontinued to release more. While they all feature the same characteristic detailing (studs, buckles, tassel zipper pulls, front zipper pockets, whipstitched top handles, and leather-framed pocket mirrors), they vary in size. 

The Balenciaga Hip Bag is the smallest in the motorcycle collection. Very slim, it is large enough to fit only a cellphone, card wallet, and tube of lipstick. A crossbody, the Balenciaga Hip Bag was named for where it hits when it is worn – right at the hip. Though, its crossbody strap can be adjusted or even removed, so it can also be worn as a shoulder bag or carried as a clutch. 

Compact yet versatile, the Balenciaga Hip Bag is perfect for nights out. Take it on a dinner date or on the dance floor with friends. 

A defining accessory of the mid- ‘00s, the Balenciaga Motorcycle Bag is still in high demand today. The house often updates and releases select styles from the line, but the Hip has long not been one of them. To score the Balenciaga Hip Bag, shop from our pre-owned collection.