The fanny pack — yes, the fanny pack — is in the midst of a major comeback
If there was ever a fashion story of a phoenix rising from the ashes, it has to be that of the formerly shunned fanny pack. Once a telltale sign of un-chic tourism, it’s now a luxury must-have. The accessory’s makeover is dramatic. Not only have almost all of the top labels created their own high-price version, but the fashion industry has given the piece a new name. Call it a belt bag. While the offerings are now vast and varied (from Louis Vuitton’s logo-laden option to hot-brand-in-the-making Wandler’s sleek and subdued version), the fanny pack’s, um, belt bag’s appeal has stayed the same. It’s simply a delight to be hands-free.
Louis Vuitton
Logomania takes a sporty turn with Louis Vuitton’s Bumbag. $2,100. Available at select Louis Vuitton boutiques or by calling (866) 884-8866.
Valentino
Valentino’s Free Rockstud Spike Belt Bag brings the house’s iconic studs to the latest bag trend with this bold green version. $1,375. Available at Valentino boutiques and www.valentino.com.
Chanel
Chanel’s pastel lambskin Waist Bag with shiny gold-tone metal hardware adds a pop of pastel to any summer ensemble. $2,700. Available at Chanel boutiques and www.chanel.com.
Marc Jacobs
Marc Jacobs’ colorful Sport Belt Bag can be worn around the waist or as a cross-body purse for maximum versatility. $295. Available at Marc Jacobs, 8400 Melrose Place, Los Angeles, and www.marcjacobs.com.
Gucci
Gucci’s Ophidia small belt bag in chestnut suede is the latest must-have from this coveted brand. $1,390. Available at select Gucci stores and www.gucci.com.
Clare V.
Clare V. has featured a fanny pack in its line for years, giving cool girls everywhere an easy way to go hands-free. This one is the Perf Fannypack in black; other colors are available. $299. Available at Clare V. boutiques and www.clarev.com.
Wandler
Much-buzzed-about Amsterdam-based brand Wandler’s Anna two-tone leather belt bag is simple, statement-making and handmade in Italy. $415. Available at www.net-a-porter.com.
VereVerto
L.A.-based brand VereVerto’s Deco belt bag is a collaboration between the brand and stylist Sissy Sainte-Marie. Each pouch is removable and can be mixed and matched, creating a variety of styling options. $340. Available at www.vereverto.com.
COS
The COS Leather Belt Bag is an affordable way to get in on the hottest accessory trend of the moment. $89. Available at www.cosstores.com.
Yuzefi
Handcrafted in London, Yuzefi’s Lola color-blocked bag gives the trend an architectural slant. $505. Available at www.net-a-porter.com.
Stella McCartney
Vegetarian brand Stella McCartney’s red Stella Star Belt Bag is constructed from leather-alternative materials. $895. Available at Stella McCartney at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa and www.stellamccartney.com.
Tory Burch
Tory Burch’s Miller Belt Bag embodies the brand’s elegant-meets-preppy aesthetic. $228. Available at Tory Burch stores in Beverly Hills, Glendale and Canoga Park.
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