Chic and easy belt bags and fanny packs are back with a vengeance.
Belt Bags and Fanny Packs
In recent years, the fashion world has witnessed the resurgence of a practical accessory that combines style and functionality—the belt bag, also known as the fanny pack. These compact and hands-free bags have become a favorite among fashion enthusiasts and travelers alike.
While fanny packs are a thing of the ‘80s and ‘90s, crafted of brightly colored nylon, worn by your dad with his corresponding pleat-front jeans, or paired with an equally colorful leotard and leggings for a rollerblading afternoon—they’re back.
The Upgrade
Yes, a fanny pack in its original form is still around, shopped for casual or more active activities, but the concept of a hands-free purse has also been reinvented as a belt bag. Which is, of course, exactly as it sounds.
Style Tip: what is a belt bag?
A belt bag, with slightly more elevated appeal, is often a structured or splurge-worthy pouch that is made of suede, leather, or another equally elevated material.
Why You Need a Belt Bag
It has been slung on a belt that slips through the loops of your pants, worn just like a true belt…just with storage for all your essentials.
Offering convenience without sacrificing fashion, belt bags have evolved from their practical origins into stylish and versatile accessories.
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What to Look for
In this post, we will explore some of the best belt bags and fanny packs available, perfect for those who crave both fashion-forward looks and the freedom of a hands-free lifestyle.
For those days that you’re carrying light and just want a hands-free, retro bag option, shop the below fanny packs and belt bags.
They might just become your new favorite style.
Our Top Picks
You’ve already fallen in love with Bottega’s oversized leather weave, but did you know you can shop it in an ultra-chic and youthful belt bag shape as well?
Style Tip: A black turtleneck will make your belt bag pop.
Go sporty with a fanny pack that harkens back to the OG nature of the trend with this nylon style from Adidas with a single contrasting logo at the front.
Style Tip: Wear your favorite platform sandals. It will complete your sporty look!
This Isabel Marant belt bag has the perfect air of bohemian without all of the bells and whistles.
In quite structured leather, it fits more than it seems, featuring a gold grommet detailing around the edge for that unfinished look that feels tailored and edgy at the same time.
Style Tip: Pair it with white platform sneakers to make it edgier.
Keep it sporty and casual with this blue nylon number from Paravel.
Not only is it fold-up and super packable for hikes and trips out of town, but it’s easy to clean, wears well, and boasts an athletic vibe your casual wardrobe will love.
Pro Tip: If you are taking your camera for those trips, consider taking a travel case for camera instead.
The hero! Lululemon belt bag is perfect for everyday errands and quick trips.
With both interior and exterior pockets, you’re sure to have space for all your essentials.
Style Tip: The bag’s sleek water-repellent fabric can stand up to any weather and adventure!
For the coldest days of winter, keep your belongings snug as a bug.
Leave it to Max Mara to craft a shearling belt bag that you’ll love, looking ultra luxe even if the design itself is quite casual.
Style Tip: This belt bag can be perfect for apres ski outfit.
With a simple design, shop Amazon’s trendier line, “The Drop,” for your every belt bag from retro fanny pack style.
In colorful faux leather and embossed exotics, you’ll love this hands-free carryall.
Style Tip: Style them with a maxi dress and Chelsea boots to upgrade your look.
If you’re not sure you want to go fully fanny pack with your next bag purchase, this is the belt bag for you.
The strap is totally adjustable so that you can wear it around your waist, over your shoulder, or as a hands-free crossbody—with ease.
Style Tip: This black mat finish crossbody bag will look great with black over the knee boots.
Throw it back to the ‘90s with this belt bag that’s totally worth the retro splurge.
From Prada’s Re-Nylon vintage-inspired collection, shop this black nylon fanny pack with the single iconic logo on the front.
Style Tip: Go for full logo play with your favorite designer slides.
This bag boasts quite the design, as it’s arguably more belt than bag.
With a single small interior pocket, you can hold the essentials for a night out on the town, and no one will be the wiser that your belt is actually doing double-duty as a bag.
Style Tip: Adding a pair of sleek black boots will add more edge to your outfit.
For the active one, look to Alo. Specializing in performance wear, they’ve mastered it right down to the fanny pack that you might wear while working out.
In classic black, this fanny pack is lightweight and simple, with two pockets to hold all of your essentials.
Style Tip: Get your tankini with shorts and tank tops ready!
Have a bit of fun with your belt bag. After all, if you’re going to do it, you might as well jump in head first.
As such, try out this Gucci embossed style crafted of bright green leather with a sporty blue logo print. Match your belt bag with your favorite Gucci slides.
With the essence of a saddle bag flap, this squared off belt bag feels elegant and elevated.
It’s basically the fanny pack that Grace Kelly would have worn, had it been in style more than half a century ago.
Style Tip: If you want to make it more casual, style them with wide leg jeans.
You likely remember the ease of a LeSportsac bag from your early-aughts youth, most often by way of a colorful or printed baguette bag.
Today, with the same variety of colors and patterns, you can shop a belt bag that’s fit for sporty or casual everyday wear alike.
With a casual, yet tailored appeal, this front flap belt bag is crafted of leather in a go-with-everything brown tone.
It has the look of a 1940s schoolbag, with the flair of a ‘90s fanny pack, all rolled into one. What’s more, it has a removable strap so that you can wear it with a chain as a cross body as well.
Style Tip: Throw on a khaki pants for effortless look.
Pro Tip 😎
Few fanny packs and belt bags work for day and night.
So decide whether you’re looking for a sporty and casual style or one that’s more structured, luxe, and elevated and go from there.
Taking cues from decades past, it might just be time to try out a fanny pack or belt bag for those days you have a few essentials to tote around but don’t want to actually have to carry a bag in your hand.
From classic designs to high-end luxury options, there is a belt bag or fanny pack to suit every taste and occasion. Embrace the freedom of a hands-free lifestyle and elevate your fashion game with one of these best belt bags and fanny packs mentioned above.
Types and Styles
The Minimalist Belt Bag:
If you prefer a sleek and minimalistic look, there are plenty of belt bags that offer clean lines and understated elegance. Brands like Herschel Supply Co., Everlane, or Cuyana focus on minimalistic designs with a focus on functionality.
These bags feature simple silhouettes, high-quality materials, and versatile color options.
The Adventure-Ready Outdoor Waist Pack:
For outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers, an outdoor waist pack is a must-have accessory. Brands like Patagonia, The North Face, or Columbia specialize in creating durable and weather-resistant belt bags designed to withstand the elements.
Equipped with water bottle holders, and extra pockets, these waist packs are ideal for hiking, biking, or any outdoor activity where convenience and functionality are key.
The Chic Designer Belt Bag:
Luxury fashion houses have embraced the belt bag trend, offering their own high-end versions that sophistication and style. Brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada have unveiled beautifully crafted belt bags with luxurious materials, eye-catching designs, and impeccable craftsmanship.
While these designer options may come with a higher price tag, they serve as a fashion-forward investment piece that can elevate any ensemble.
The Stylish Leather Fanny Pack:
If you’re looking for a sophisticated take on the belt bag, a leather fanny pack is an excellent option. Brands like Fossil, Michael Kors, or Coach offer elegant designs that seamlessly blend luxury and functionality.
Whether in a sleek black or a rich cognac brown, a leather fanny pack adds a touch of refinement to any ensemble. Perfect for a night out or a day of exploring the city, this accessory keeps your essentials secure while making a fashion statement.
Get ready to redefine your style and convenience with these trendy accessories!
FAQ
What is a belt bag called?
The fanny packs from your childhood had a major design glow up in recent years to the updated and stylish belt bag!
The simplest way to think about a belt bag it’s a bag on a belt. It’s a small pouch bag attached to an extendable belt strap worn close to your body at your waist or hips.
What is the difference between a fanny pack and a belt bag?
Aside from the connotations of each word, the only difference is where the bag is worn.
A belt bag is worn closer to the waist facing the front or side whereas a fanny pack is worn just where you think, above your fanny.
So, you may hear them called a belt bag, waist bag, fanny pack, or bum bag. Today these are all names used virtually interchangeably for the same style of bag.
Why are belt bags so popular?
Belt bags have seen a resurgence with the rise of stylish and functional casual fashion combined with the popularity of vintage clothing.
They’re the perfect size to carry your phone, wallet, and keys along with some spare necessities, like your favorite protein bar and makeup for touch-ups.
Plus, they’re easy to throw over your top on warmer days or under your puffer on colder days whether you’re walking the dog or going to brunch.
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