How to Style a Fanny Pack
How to wear a fanny pack
Fashion loves a comeback. That means we’re seeing fanny packs come back around again, sported on the waists (and wrists) of influencers and celebs. Are you stuck for ideas when it comes to styling this retro classic? Here’s how to wear a fanny pack or belt bag in a fresh, cool, and fashion-forward way.
When were fanny packs popular?
Belt pouches have been around in some form or another for centuries – the Scottish kilt is a prime example! Today’s fanny packs are often associated with the 1990s, but they really started off as an 80’s thing. These belted bags were meant to be purely practical, giving sporty dads a way to carry their stuff around without resorting to a handbag.
They were then picked up by street style trendsetters and young people into the early 90’s hip-hop scene, making them a popular accessory for all ages, genders, and styles.
Are fanny packs back in style?
Fanny packs started coming back in style in the 2010s, sported by festival goers at Coachella and other music events. Splashed all over social media feeds, they’ve never really gone away since then, making the jump from Instagram to TikTok fashion trends. Today, you’ll find designs from sportswear brands like lululemon as well as high-fashion bags from the likes of Gucci and Louis Vuitton.
From a practical standpoint, a hands-free bag gives you room to move in nightclubs and music festivals. Keeping your belongings at the front also makes them harder to lose, with front zips adding to the safety and security of this ubiquitous accessory.
How to style a fanny pack
From luxe leather bags to sling-shaped sportswear, fanny packs are more versatile than ever. Here are a few of the most popular ways to style them.
1. Across the body
The most modern way to wear a fanny pack is across the body. For an easy street style look, team baggy jeans with a crew-neck sweatshirt and wear your cross-body bag in the center of your chest. A more feminine take on this style is to sling a black cross-body bag over your shoulder with a midi dress and boots.
2. On the waist
It might seem too on-the-nose or normcore, but wearing your fanny pack on the waist can look modern if it’s part of an elevated look. Place it to your front or turn it to the side of the hip, layered over a more formal outfit with a low-rise skirt and heels. A third styling option is to replace your usual belt with a fanny pack, looping it through your trench coat.
3. Sporty layers
Fanny packs are a natural fit for layered athleisure looks. Team them with biker shorts and an oversized T-shirt and blazer, dressing your look up with heels or down with sneakers.
4. Tone-on-tone
You can also get playful with the color of your fanny pack. For a tonal look, wear a bag that matches the color of your overall outfit. Go for full monochrome or opt for a bag that’s a slightly different shade of the same color family.
Luxury fanny packs
Today’s fanny packs have been given the high fashion treatment by top designers. If you want a more upscale, luxe take on this classic accessory, try a couple of the following.
Louis Vuitton fanny pack
Louis Vuitton played a major role in the overall fanny pack revival, with the Marc Jacobs collaboration selling out in 2006. Now, you’ll find new collaborations and prints to choose from. Try the popular Catch version featuring LV’s signature Monogram canvas, mixed with luxurious cowhide leather and metal trims.
Gucci fanny pack
Another luxury-oriented version of the everyday fanny pack comes from Gucci. Look for small and large versions of its GG Supreme style, made with coated microfiber fabrics and black leather trims. They’re all made in Italy to a high standard and can be worn on the hip, waist, or across the body.
Whether you go for sporty nylon styles or upgraded leather bags, the styling possibilities are endless. Explore our latest women’s handbags for more inspiration.
