$970 for what looks like a trash bag: Balenciaga’s latest absurd drop

Balenciaga has unveiled its new Marché Packable Tote — a $970 “luxury” accessory that bears a striking resemblance to a worn plastic shopping bag.

Made from durable, flexible polyamide and subtly branded with the Balenciaga logo, the bright blue tote comes with short carry handles and a design that could easily be mistaken for a grocery bag.

The fashion house is no stranger to turning everyday items into high-priced statement pieces. Previous eyebrow-raising releases include the Women’s Gaffer Bangle for $530 with a deliberately distressed look, and the Chips Bag in red leather with “worn” hardware, mimicking a packet of crisps and priced at $1,810.

Part of the Balenciaga Winter 25 collection, the Marché Packable Tote Bag Medium is made from polyamide and Dyneema — an ultra-strong material that keeps it lightweight yet capable of holding up to 10 kg.

The bag is currently available for pre-order via a digital waiting list, offering enough room for a phone, laptop, and other daily essentials — all wrapped in a design that looks like it could have come from the corner shop.