The fanny pack is truly a versatile look. While some might associate the fanny pack with the eighties, and, ahem, that fashion, designers are reimagining when to wear a fanny pack, or “belt bag,” to emphasize their effortless minimalism and hands-free convenience. The fashion world has taken notice and fanny packs are one of the biggest trends for spring 2021 and continue to be one of the biggest trends in 2022.
When to Wear A Fanny Pack
The reason why fanny packs are cool is that they can easily replace a purse while biking, walking, or, if you are going for that hypebeast look…clubbing. The belted style of fanny packs makes for total ease of wear. And, as most are just the right size to hold a passport, a wallet, your phone, and a pair of headphones, they are a perfect bag for travelling, whether it be abroad, or just around the neighborhood.
While a fanny pack, or belt bag, can easily be worn across the waist, some people are styling the bag around their shoulders, breathing new life into the look. As all kinds of fashion brands are working to create more exciting streetwear looks, there are dozens of fanny pack styles to choose from. Fiorucci has even stamped a fanny pack with their signature angels.
Why Fanny Packs Are Cool
Are fanny packs out of style? Nope! Fanny packs are cool again and everyone just has to deal with it.
The perfect accessory for someone on the go, fanny packs are ideal for walks around the city, summer music festivals, bicycle rides, and a night out. They are incredibly versatile, and come in all kinds of colors and textures—from sporty canvas bags to high fashion Burberry fanny pack (yes, actually). With these convenient hip-huggers, fashionistas don’t have to choose between looking cool and dressing with maximum convenience.
How Much Do Fanny Packs Cost?
Like most things in fashion, fanny packs can be dirt cheap or quite pricey. 99 cents stores sell fanny packs made of cheap plastics that are probably capable of self-combustion, while top brands offer reimagined fanny packs, or “belt bags”, for upwards of three hounded dollars.
That being said, it’s easy to find a lightweight, reliable fanny pack for around $40 dollars if you want a trustworthy basic.
For more chic, and sustainably crafted fanny packs, like Hozen’s vegan leather belt or card holders, you’ll pay a bit more, but you can expect these higher quality items to last a lot longer and make a much bigger style statement.
Are Fanny Packs Trending?
One of the reasons fanny packs are cool is that they trend almost effortlessly. While some 2021 fashion picks, like the oversized slippers from Balenciaga, or all the fashion pandemic masks that brands are trying to redress as “trendy,” will be out of style by 2022—fanny packs are a tried-and-true accessory that have stood the test of time.
Plus, fanny packs, belt bags, and canteen style bags are all parts of the trend of fashion moving towards sustainability and investing in ethical environmental practices, which will never go out of style. Sustainability doesn’t just mean using recycled, or vegan, fabrics, it’s also about reducing consumerism. One of the easiest ways to help the environment is to give up single use plastics, whether this means pre-packing a snack in a fanny pack or ditching water bottles for a cute, and oh-so practical canteen bag.