Fanny packs used to be a mere travel accessory, not so long ago. Today, it, along with belt bags, has made a comeback of sorts where they are practical and a fashion staple. You can see high-end designer looks everywhere, from streetwear to fashion ramps in Milan and New York. So, whether you are dressing for the airport or going for a city stroll with a loved one, it pays to know different types of fanny packs and belt bags so you can pick the perfect piece for your lifestyle and utility.
Today, we will cover different aspects of belt bags and fanny packs, starting with the history and evolution to fashion trends, types, and styling tips. Before concluding our guide, we will also share some outfit ideas for different occasions that you can pair with your belt bag. So, let’s get started!
History and Evolution
The fanny pack made its appearance on the map when it was picked up by tourists and travelers in the 1980s. Back then, it was mocked for its bland and anti-fashion sense. The reasons were simple: they were worn around the waist and were lifeless in terms of design and aesthetics. For the purists, they were a win as they allow hands-free convenience while keeping all your essentials secure and at arm’s length.
In the ‘90s, fanny packs saw a decline due to sleeker and more trendy handbags and backpacks taking the stage. However, the 2010s proved to redefine fanny packs as major brands picked up the relic of the past and reimagined it with the new term “belt bag”. Big players from the fashion industry, such as Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, spearheaded the revolution. Today, you can find celebrities, social media influencers, and common fashion-savvy people rocking a fanny pack with confidence.
Fashion Trends
When we come to fashion trends, we see two major things happening around fanny packs - versatility and flair. Today, they are not just worn around the waist as a fanny pack crossbody is a hot take. The same goes for a fanny pack shoulder bag, which adds a modern edge to conventional styling.
Neutral hues dominate minimalist and utilitarian wardrobes, whereas bold prints and luxury materials make potent statements in the fashion-forward circles.
Another major change in the trend is about functionality. The best fanny pack for travel today is expected to have certain features that make it more practical and desirable than others. These include water-resistant fabrics, RFID-blocking compartments, and anti-theft characteristics.
For the majority of people who want to rock a fanny pack or a belt bag, the appeal lies in striking the perfect balance between utility and aesthetics.
Types of Belt Bags and Fanny Packs
Before we cover styling tips and outfit pairing ideas, let’s explore different types of belt bags and fanny packs you can find in the market, both online and offline. Since you are actively hunting, you need to know what is what to get the best piece for your needs. We will cover both classics and contemporary hybrids, so you will have enough to choose from.
Classic Waist Fanny Pack
This is a traditional rectangular pouch worn around the waist or hips. Made of nylon, canvas, or polyester, it was primarily made for casual outings, festivals, or traveling light around the world. If you have ever seen a fanny pack, there is a high chance that you have seen this one.
Fashion Belt Bag
If the name is any indication, fashion belt bags are sleeker and made of premium materials to help them stand out from their cousins. Often made of leather with designer detailing, they are aimed at complementing your outfit for dressy events, like cocktail parties and evening galas.
Fanny Pack Crossbody
Designed for a modern, laid-back silhouette, the fanny pack crossbody is worn diagonally across the chest or back for a hands-free, casual experience. It is made of leather, canvas, or nylon and is suited best for urban wear, casual chic, and more.
Convertible Belt Bag
Want to carry something versatile and functional while still looking sharp in the crowd? A convertible belt bag will do the trick. It can change into a clutch, a shoulder bag, or a crossbody for travelers, minimalists, and anyone needing flexibility.
Hiking/Outdoor Fanny Pack
Designed for utility through and through, the hiking/outdoor fanny pack is durable with multiple pockets. Often made out of ripstop nylon or waterproof polyester, it is ideal for hikes, treks, and the rugged outdoors for maximum comfort and safety.
Sling Belt Bag
This comes in a backpack-style shape and is larger than average fanny packs. Typically made out of leather, neoprene, or waterproof blends of other synthetic materials, it is excellent for city travel, everyday carry, and even bold streetwear.
Designer Statement Belt Bag
If you are a couture-lover who goes to high-end events or just wants to pose for street style photography, a designer statement belt bag is the perfect choice. Made out of embossed leather and velvet with gold-tone hardware, it stands out with its fashion-first design, with branding and luxury materials.
Styling Tips for Belt Bags & Fanny Packs
It is not enough to get one of the best fanny packs for international travel, you need to learn to style it. It is not about where you wear it, but how you wear it and what you wear it with. Going for a casual look or an upscale one? These tips will show you how you can complete your look by complementing your outfit with the accessories.
-
Balanced Proportions: Bulky belt bags go nicely with streamlined outfits, where smaller ones are amazing for layered looks. Balancing proportions makes each item stand out, creating a perfect pair.
-
Play with Placements: As covered in the previous sections, you can wear your fanny pack crossbody or over one shoulder for a trendier twist. Keep in mind that it is all about how comfortable and confident you are with the accessories.
-
Monochrome Looks: When you want to stand out without trying so hard, just match your bag with your outfit. This will create a cohesive, minimalist look that is as fashionable as it is practical.
-
Layer Smartly: When you are moving around the city in cooler weather, you can sling the bag over coats and jackets, and it will add a certain character or texture to your overall outfit.
-
Break Up Prints: Since it is about balancing proportions and styles, you can use a solid belt bag to create visual relief when you are wearing bold or busy patterns.
Best Outfits for Belt Bags & Fanny Packs
With the knowledge of types of belt bags and fanny packs and how to style them with your outfit, you should know enough to pick up your look. However, if the ideas are lost on you, we are mixing and matching outfit ideas based on the type of bag and the occasion. Either pick one suggestion as is or experiment your heart out.
Casual Day Out
-
Outfit: Pick a catchy dropped hoodie, joggers, and chunky sneakers.
-
Bag: Fanny pack crossbody, or sports belt bag.
-
Vibe: Streetwear with edge.
Weekend Brunch
-
Outfit: Put on a muted maxi dress, a denim jacket, and ankle boots.
-
Bag: Fanny pack shoulder bag in leather or canvas.
-
Vibe: Relaxed but put together.
Travel Look
-
Outfit: Get a pair of leggings, an oversized tee, and a zip-up hoodie.
-
Bag: Anti-theft or best fanny pack for travel.
-
Vibe: Comfort meets practicality.
Night Out
-
Outfit: Choose a tailored blazer dress, strappy heels, and statement earrings.
-
Bag: A designer fashion belt bag worn at the waist.
-
Vibe: Chic and city-ready.
Festival Style
-
Outfit: Pick a trendy crop top, high-waisted shorts, and combat boots.
-
Bag: Colorful nylon fanny pack around the waist.
-
Vibe: Functional, fun, and free-spirited.
How to Choose the Right Belt Bag or Fanny Pack
There are three important questions you need to ask yourself before picking the perfect belt bag or fanny pack.
-
What kind of lifestyle do you have?
-
What are your outfit preferences?
-
How much do you typically pack in your bag?
Answering these questions will help you find the right one. Here are some factors that collectively answer all these questions.
Purpose
Are you going out for a workout, a coffee run, or to another continent? The best fanny pack for international travel will be different from a night-out option.
Size & Capacity
If you need just enough space for keys and wallets, you are better off with a sleeker, minimalist leather fanny pack from Pikore. No need to carry something bulky.
Material & Durability
For outdoor adventures, pick something sturdy that can last. For fashion and vibes, go with luxe or casual materials.
Design & Versatility
You need to make sure that the belt bag can be matched with multiple outfits. So, neutral colors offer more versatility, whereas bold patterns make a standout statement.
Gender & Fit
Some types of fanny packs for women offer a more compact and stylized look, whereas unisex versions are more focused on functionality. Keeping that in mind will make things clearer for you.
Pikore: Your Partner for Leather Fanny Pack and Belt Bag Styling
When you are on the lookout for the best leather fanny packs and belt bags that add to your outfit, you can trust Pikore to bring something truly amazing. We have an amazing collection of handcrafted, genuine leather accessories for all moods and events. Our artisans show excellent craftsmanship in every piece, designed with passion and care. With the summer vacations right around the corner, pick your favorite fanny pack as the perfect travel companion!
Wrapping Up
Belt bags and fanny packs are not just practical accessories, they are style essentials that can give you hands-free ease while boosting your outfit. Whether you are traveling, running errands, dressing up to impress, adding a fanny pack or a belt bag can fit your needs and personal aesthetics. This is a versatile accessory that can take your drip to the next level. In this blog, we have covered all important aspects of types, styling, and outfit ideas with you so you can look and feel your best.
