Fanny-Pack It In
by Carrie

Now some of you are going to think I have completely lost my mind with this one but trust me, this item is SERIOUSLY poised for a comeback! I’m sure most of you thought you had seen the last of the humble bum bag (or fanny pack to you, my delightful friends across the pond) in around 1995, but word on the street is that these handy belt-like handbags are about to storm back in an unprecedented fashion.

For those of you lucky enough not to remember them the first-time round, and to remind those of us who would rather have forgotten, let’s take a moment to reacquaint ourselves with all things fanny pack. Originally designed for travellers, cyclists and hikers for ease of access and protection from pickpockets, the pack reached popularity within the general public in the late 80’s to early 90’s. Their ease of access however made them a popular choice for gang members to store loaded handguns, which some consider to be the beginning of their demise.

While their popularity seriously dwindled by the mid 90’s, some designers have attempted to utilise the quirky irony of a bum bag by rebranding them as packs, to limited effect. However, while the hardcore 80’s revival is waning, subtle touches such as visors, skinny belts and the bum bag/fanny pack are the perfect accent to accompany the neons, block colours and geometric influences of this season.

So, what bum bags are available for those brave enough to embrace the biggest comeback since the legging?

Bisadora (available from ebags.com) offer a reasonably priced Hip Purse with chain belt that doesn’t scream bum bag, and is just a teensy bit chav-tastic. If you want to run with the trend, the obvious choice is to go vintage, and pick up an original pack from the past. Take it to the extreme with something vivacious and zany featuring wild patterns rocking a classic design, or keep it simple and on-trend with block colours. A great idea is to really commit to your look by adding matching nail polish.

Built by Wendy does some sweet-as-a-button fanny packs and this Brooklyn-based designer is seriously backing their momentous return with a price tag of $108 each!

However you decide to embrace all things fanny-tastic, the most important thing is not to take this look too seriously. And don’t be afraid to team your new best friend with jeans, flowing skirts or even a cocktail dress. Anything goes!

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