Balenciaga

Cristóbal Balenciaga was regarded as one of the most technical couturiers of his era: he sculpted volume and space around the body (the balloon skirt, the sack dress, the baby doll). He closed the house in 1968. Following its revival, Balenciaga regained prominence under Nicolas Ghesquière (1997–2012), notably with the City bag from the Motorcycle line. Demna (creative director 2015–2025) introduced oversized proportions, ironic branding, and the chunky sneaker trend; in 2025, Pierpaolo Piccioli was appointed creative director.

• Chunky sneaker, maximum statement — Triple S: layered sole, striking volume, runs large.
• Sneaker that feels like a sock — Speed: knitted sock-like upper, sleek silhouette, comfortable yet warm.
• Everyday leather bag with character — City (and its successors in the Motorcycle line): supple leather, studs, tassels.
• Sleek, structured bag — Hourglass: tailored silhouette, ideal for evening and office wear.
• Y2K look — Le Cagole: studs, heart-shaped mirror, distinctly playful.

Balenciaga sneakers vary in fit by model. The Triple S is often considered roomy; many wearers choose their normal size or half a size down. The Speed fits more snugly around the foot and is typically chosen true to size or slightly larger for wider feet. Clothing is often deliberately designed with an oversized fit: check the listed garment and shoulder measurements rather than relying solely on your standard label size.

In doubt? Try them on in-store or order from a retailer with a flexible returns policy. Read our size guide for Balenciaga sneakers.

Balenciaga is available through its own boutiques and online store, as well as selected luxury retailers and department stores. On the pre-owned market, City bags and Triple S sneakers are frequently traded — and therefore widely counterfeited. Buy from a seller that guarantees authenticity in writing and request proof of purchase, the dust bag, and the original box.

• Louis Vuitton — The monogram heritage house, Paris’s leading luxury name.
• Dior — Classic Parisian couture serving as a counterpart to Balenciaga.
• Acne Studios — Swedish, conceptual, and oversized — an accessible alternative.
• AllSaints — Edgy leather aesthetics at a lower price point.
• New Balance — Dad sneakers with chunky soles, significantly more affordable.
• Hermès — Quiet luxury as the antithesis of statement fashion.

View all brands, try the Brand Finder or explore the brand guides.

Looking for a similar aesthetic? Explore our brand guide on Maison Mihara Yasuhiro: a Japanese designer label by Mihara Yasuhiro, particularly celebrated for sneakers with warped, undulating soles.