The fashion industry is nothing short of, for the lack of a better word, amusing. When we think of a fanny pack, we immediately visualize a rather uncool person sporting a pouch around their waist. Although these bags effortlessly combine function and fashion (for some), they have been looked down upon since their inception simply because of their lack of aesthetics. Owing to their structural design which makes them look ‘crusty’ and ‘minimal effort’, they were always termed as ‘the epitome of uncool’, despite their practicality. However, the truth is far from it – the fact is that people have learned to love this fashion accessory over time, but they would rather be caught dead with it in public. It’s a clear case of bad rep.
Although fanny packs are still a staple in almost every household, there is a new hands-free bag in town which is taking the world by storm which makes us wonder if this new prodigy is the only variant of the fanny pack that may be acceptable to society?
Fanny Pack vs Belt Bag
Fanny packs were highly popular back in the ’80s and ’90s, but they were commissioned out of fashion soon after. However, thanks to millennials, they are in trend again but with newer names like waist bags, belt bags, hip packs, and lumbar packs, to name a few – albeit a cooler personality trait.
Major fashion houses like Coach, YSL, Gucci, Chanel, and more have turned to the belt bag, making it a thing of beauty and social media frenzy. There’s also a celebrity favorite belt bag from the popular clothing and accessories brand Lululemon, which people cannot get enough of.
The Difference
A fanny pack hangs below one’s waist and is low on the hips, closer to the thighs. Whereas, a belt bag is worn closer to the waist: high or low. Simply put, a fanny pack is the one you wear near your “fanny”, on the other hand, a belt bag works like a belt.
Listed below are a few handpicked options that we think may catch your eye.
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
This belt bag from Lululemon smartly maximizes function and style. Want a bag to store your phone, credit cards, or some cash? This is all you need.
Coach Quilted Pillow Leather Essential Belt Bag
This adorable gold and leather belt bag from Coach is all you need for that special night out.
Fendi Baguette Belt Bag
The Fendi Baguette Belt Bag is truly a “hot girl” fashion accessory. Say no more.
Gucci GG Supreme Canvas Belt Bag
If you are looking for a fashionable belt bag to add to your designer bag collection, this Gucci GG Supreme Canvas Belt Bag should do the trick.
Saint Laurent Cassandre Classic Belt Bag
A truly classy and timeless piece, this Saint Laurent Cassandre Classic Belt Bag comes in leather and is roomy enough for all the necessary essentials.
Dior Saddle Belt Pouch
Inspired by the brand’s best-selling saddle bag, this jacquard material belt bag is a must-have.
Can belt bags bring fanny packs back into fashion?
To some, fanny packs are much more than a fashion accessory. They come in all sizes and colours and are super-duper functional. With brands like Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and more getting into the act, are we ready to appreciate them? Maybe just a little or a lot.
Images: Pinterest
