Fashion trends always make a comeback and every time they return, there is more style and functionality added to the concerned objects. Fanny packs are the biggest example. The trend which was a rage in the ’90s, is now being spotted on the ramps, red carpets, in street style fashion and airport looks.
Fanny packs, which are also called belt bag or waist bag, are considered a fashion staple and experts believe that it is the most stylish and practical way to carry your stuff around. It’s a new accessory to add some funk and drama to your look. What’s more exciting is that it can be worn around the neck too!
Also, called bum bags, fanny packs, primarily considered a sport or athleisure accessory, have transformed into one of the most versatile fashion items that can be sported by both men and women.
Digyangana Bakshi, fashion blogger and stylist, says that fanny packs are the popular accessory this year and it isn’t just a casual bag that you put your essentials into; it is becoming more trendy and sophisticated. “Some celebs have even worn them over gowns and suits and while walking red carpets. Ranveer Singh has often been seen wearing it like a shoulder bag, rather than just a waist bag. These are easy and comfortable, giving you access to things that you need while on the go. This is one accessory that you must invest in and if you are a traveller, it is going to be a blessing for you,” says Bakshi.
A fanny pack is a lightweight waist bag worn mostly for its flexible uses, particularly for allowing you to stuff all your necessary items in there. It has a zipper that you can easily open or close shut, and it is often made of leather, though there are cloth, embroidered and even felt fanny packs.
Fanny is slang for buttocks and since the pouch is often worn over that area, it is called a fanny pack. “However, more and more people are seen it wearing in the front these days. Check out the pictures of Kardashians and you’ll get some inspiration from them,” says Bakshi.
Fanny packs or bum bags are available in different colours, sizes and shapes — oval, square, cat eye, rectangular and round. These bags come in different materials such as leather, denims, cotton, rexins and so on. Says Rithika Rao, a Pune stylist,”You can play around a bit with your bag if it is plain and without prints. I really like decorating and changing the pins and patches on my fanny pack. Since it’s on the front of your body, it really changes the vibe of the outfit like any other accessory. They are comfortable to wear with anything and everything. Don’t hesitate to sling it on dresses, denims pants, gowns and skirts,” advises Rao, adding, “If styled correctly, it can make you stand out from the crowd. Besides being functional, fanny pack doesn’t require a lot of maintenance either.”
Talking about how to style is right, Rao says, it doesn’t take much time to decide what goes best with your bag. “Just ensure that the colour of your bag is in contrast to your outfit. Whether pulling double duty as a belt, thrown casually over the shoulder, or even held as a handbag, fanny pack makes a statement piece that recalls a certain ’90s nostalgia while still appearing absolutely modern giving you an uber chic look,” she suggests.