The new designs blend the handbag's signature motorcycle-inspired style with Hirst's bold artistic touches, giving the early 2000s favourite a striking contemporary update. Balenciaga is giving one of its most recognisable handbags an artistic makeover to celebrate its 25th anniversary, teaming up with British artist Damien Hirst for a limited-edition collection featuring colourful spots, butterflies and mandalas.
Launched on Tuesday, 10 November, the anniversary campaign brings together celebrities including Nicole Richie and Rachel Sennott, while the collaboration, dubbed 'Damienciaga', reimagines the iconic Le City bag with Hirst's distinctive artwork. The collection also extends to other accessories and ready-to-wear pieces, turning the milestone into a wider fashion celebration.
Damien Hirst Transforms the Iconic Le City
The collaboration takes inspiration from some of Hirst's most recognisable artistic motifs, including his multicoloured spots, butterfly imagery and Spin Paintings. One of its standout designs features colourful spots arranged into the shape of a butterfly, while other pieces incorporate mandalas formed from butterfly wings.
Embroidered patches inspired by the artist's work also appear across selected designs. Rather than abandoning the handbag's familiar silhouette, the collection combines its relaxed shape and signature hardware with Hirst's expressive patterns.
The collaboration spans different Le City sizes, including mini, small, medium and large designs, alongside wallets, pouches, card holders and micro bag charms. The artwork also appears on selected clothing and other accessories.
For shoppers in the UK, Balenciaga lists a Damien Hirst Le City Large bag in black at £2,750. Prices vary across the collection, depending on the design and item.
Nicole Richie and Rachel Sennott Front Anniversary Campaign
Nicole Richie and actress Rachel Sennott are among the featured faces of Balenciaga's anniversary campaign, bringing together two generations of celebrities associated with the fashion world. Richie has a particularly strong connection to the handbag, having been among its early celebrity collectors during its rise to popularity in the 2000s.
Reflecting on her relationship with the design, she said: 'My Balenciaga bags have been with me through every era of my life. They've only gotten better with age, and you know what? So have I!' The campaign also features French actress Isabelle Huppert, footballer Hugo Ekitike and actor-singer Cecilia Boey.
Their appearances reflect the brand's intention to celebrate the international community that has helped keep the Le City relevant. The campaign is also set to spotlight devotees in fashion capitals including Los Angeles, Paris and Shanghai.
How the Le City Bag Became a Celebrity Favourite
Designed by Nicolas Ghesquière and commercially launched in 2001, the Le City bag was inspired by the classic motorcycle jacket. Its relaxed leather silhouette, long zip pulls, buckled hardware and distinctive braided handles helped it stand apart from the more structured, logo-heavy handbags popular at the time.
The design almost failed to make it beyond the prototype stage. According to British Vogue, Kate Moss was among the early admirers whose enthusiasm helped bring the bag into production. It subsequently became a favourite among high-profile names including Gisele Bündchen, Paris Hilton, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Sarah Jessica Parker and Nicole Richie.
Its appeal was rooted partly in its understated branding and lived-in appearance, making it different from the more polished luxury accessories of the early 2000s. The return of Y2K fashion has helped introduce the style to a younger generation, while vintage versions have continued attracting attention from collectors.
Balenciaga Marks 25 Years With a Fashion Experience
The anniversary extends beyond the new collection. Balenciaga is also celebrating the handbag's history through Le City House, an immersive experience beginning at the fashion house's historic Paris address on Avenue George V.
Running from 10 to 19 November, the experience includes archival designs, photographs and memorabilia documenting the bag's journey. Visitors can also explore personalisation and care services, including handle repairs and custom details. The experience is expected to travel to other international destinations, including New York, Tokyo, Shanghai and Beijing.
Twenty-five years after its debut, the Le City remains an important part of Balenciaga's accessories identity. With Hirst's colourful artwork, a celebrity-led campaign and a series of anniversary experiences, the fashion house is giving its early 2000s favourite a fresh chapter.
