How Kate Moss became the original face of Balenciaga’s Le City Bag

The story behind Kate Moss and the Le City Balenciaga bag is one of those fashion moments that became a symbol of the early 2000s luxury handbag craze. Balenciaga's City bag, which debuted in 2001 under the creative direction of Nicolas Ghesquière, quickly became one of the most coveted accessories of the era, and Moss played a key role in making it iconic.

At the time, Balenciaga was reemerging as a major player in the fashion world, and Ghesquière was beginning to carve out his vision for the brand. The City bag was part of his first collection for Balenciaga, and its sleek, yet slouchy design, buttery soft leather, and unique details like the fringe zipper pulls, instantly struck a chord with fashion insiders.

But it was Kate Moss who truly brought the City bag into the mainstream. Moss, known for her effortless style and ability to turn any outfit into a statement, was frequently photographed carrying the bag throughout the early 2000s. Her City bag was often seen slung casually over her shoulder as she moved between shows, parties, and her daily life, becoming a key part of her 'it-girl' persona.

Originally, only 25 of this bag were made for the catwalk but because Moss was seen wearing the Le City so often, demand skyrocketed. Whilst Moss was particularly seen with the City in classic black, Balenciaga went on to make a range that came in a variety of colours and textures.

Moss's effortless approach to fashion helped solidify the City bag as a must-have item for anyone in the know. She didn’t just wear it; she made it part of her signature look, an emblem of the laid-back luxury that defined the early 2000s. The bag was seen as both practical and chic—a perfect reflection of Moss's own personal style, which was relaxed yet undeniably high-fashion.

In essence, the Le City Balenciaga bag and Kate Moss became intertwined in the cultural lexicon of the 2000s, representing a particular moment in fashion history where effortless cool and luxury craftsmanship intersected perfectly.

Since Balenciaga reintroduced the Le City earlier this year, demand for the original model has increased and the resale market has become a go-to destination to discover this piece again.