Balenciaga Hourglass Bag: Six Years On, Still a Classic?

What makes a handbag iconic? Is it the silhouette, the texture, the amalgamations between form and function? In the case of the Balenciaga Hourglass bag, it’s all about the vivacious curves — a sharply tailored arc that carves out a silhouette unlike anything else.

Since its launch, the Balenciaga Hourglass has cemented itself as one of the most timeless designer bags in recent years. With its signature curved silhouette and constant fun reinventions, the bag continues to capture many fashion lovers’ attention. But in a market obsessed with the next big thing, one has to wonder… is the Hourglass just another trendy handbag or a slow classic in the making — six years later?

Making its debut during the Fall/Winter 2019, the Balenciaga Hourglass bag marked a turning point for the Maison, ushering in a more refined vision and profitable handbags under creative director Demna Gvasalia.

Renowned for its distinctive curved silhouette, the Hourglass bag pays homage to the sharply tailored Basque waistcoats designed by founder Cristóbal Balenciaga himself in the 1950s, who was obsessed with structure and form. The classic handbag thus became a direct continuation of the house’s DNA, subtly reimagined for a contemporary audience.

The Balenciaga Hourglass's popularity was further catapulted as it became a celebrity favourite, street style staple, and pop culture fixture. When Sarah Jessica Parker’s Carrie Bradshaw carried it in And Just Like That…show in 2022, there was no turning back. From Hailey Bieber and Tracee Ellis Ross to Kim Kardashian, who memorably wore it during her SNL appearance, Balenciaga’s Hourglass has continued to thrive with widespread endorsement and visibility.

Originally designed to be worn on the hip or carried by the top handle with a removable strap, the Balenciaga Hourglass bag has since evolved into a full collection of silhouettes — from classic silhouettes to modern formats like the tote, sling, and pochette — all available in a wide array of finishes, textures, and colours. Its defining feature remains the curved base, a sculptural detail that sets it apart from more conventional rectangular bags.

Just like any classic bag, the Balenciaga Hourglass also has a distinct signature, thanks to the polished 'B' logo hardware on the front flap that adds pizzas without overwhelming the design. Available in everything from glossy leather and croc-embossed textures to limited-edition collaborations, the striking Hourglass bags certainly cater to everyone’s aesthetics.

However, the Balenciaga Hourglass's sharp features and grounding historical reference still come with limited practicality, as its compact interior and rigid frame may not suit those who prioritise space and flexibility. Still, if you're drawn to IT bags with a bold attitude, elegance, and certain personality, the Hourglass will certainly align with your style.

While the Balenciaga Hourglass isn’t built for traditional utility, its real strength lies in how it elevates any look — from a minimalist outfit to an avant-garde cocktail dress. It’s the kind of eye candy that works for any occasion, with a versatility that continues to stand the test of time.

As an investment, this Balenciaga bag also continues to perform well on the resale market, thanks to its design credibility, celebrity presence, and cultural relevance with limited editions, like the Gucci Hacker Project, often retain higher value and attract collectors. While it may not match the resale heights of ultra-rare classics, its demand and distinct form make it a smart buy in 2025.

The Balenciaga Hourglass may be found at select retail stores in Singapore, but here at MAYFEYR we offer a more refined alternative. With a curated selection of authentic Balenciaga pieces, 0% instalment plans, and competitive pricing for the discerning shopper — you can get your Balenciaga Hourglass today with confidence and without compromise.