The pictures on the site don't do it justice. The bag is sold at Lord & Taylor's and Macy's. Oddly though, the same bags had different leathers. I bought a berry one and the leather is amazing. Super, super soft. I also own Balenciaga bags so I know what you mean about B bag's leather
I am really happy with this bag. I wanted a hobo style for a while and it's not expensive at all (I paid $150) so if I get sick of it in a month or two, I won't be terribly upset.