20 years after the first Balenciaga Classic bag began appearing on the arms of smart tastemakers, a striking new rendition has been released to celebrate this instant icon of the early 2000s. It’s called the Neo Classic.

With its tell-tale tasseled zip closures and sharpened edges, Balenciaga’s artistic director Demna Gvasalia pays homage to the storied original. The quintessential studs and braided-handle detailing of the hugely popular Moto bags of the mid-noughties remain, but are complemented by a number of contemporary touches.

Balenciaga Neo Classic bag

The updated design for Fall/Winter 2020, which debuted at Paris Fashion Week, the Balenciaga Neo Classic has new dimensions and a refurbished interior with bonded nappa lamb lining. The colorways include hues of galvanized metal hardware and painted edges, with the bag available in sizes City Nano to City L. And from crocodile-embossed to spazzolato calf, there are a range of finishes to choose from.

A true celebration of the classic, Gvasalia has created a design that reflects Balenciaga now and fondly remembers the beginnings of a generation of handbags that still endure. It appeals simultaneously to those who nostalgically recall the original design as a favorite of Kate Moss, among many others, two decades ago, as well as more recent Balenciaga enthusiasts.

The bag line is accompanied by a full range of small leather goods, from card holders to pouches with shoulder straps. The Neo Classic bag, which is now available at Balenciaga’s flagship store at The Dubai Mall, is ready to make its space in your walk-in wardrobe.

Images courtesy of Balenciaga