Product of the week: The belt bag

What is it:

The concept of the belt bag has various origin stories: It first appeared around 5,000 years ago and was discovered on the body of a glacier mummy. Often referred to as a “fanny pack”, the belt bag became a commercial product in the 1980s, offering the wearer functionality and, increasingly, style. It wasn’t until the mid-90s that the look became a fashion trend in its own right, supported by Karl Lagerfeld, who created his own version of the bag for Chanel.

Why you should order them:

The belt bag – like many other pieces of outerwear – experienced increasing demand due to the pandemic, as customers wanted to stretch their legs due to the restricted public life and sought their way into nature. This has also had an impact on fashion and the look of the belt bag has been further developed, so that in addition to sporty versions there are also trend-oriented models that have now secured a permanent place in the luxury segment. The belt bag is ideal for all consumers looking for a stylish yet functional type of bag and is available in a wide range of materials, patterns and shapes.

Where we saw them:

With leather and accessories product categories currently driving fashion houses’ profits, it’s clear that belt bags are one of the products designers are betting on to meet customer demand. Givenchy and Dion Lee have taken the look with external pockets and zippers and designed styles that extend over the entire waist. Rains and Proenza Schouler showed more subtle models with minimalist pockets on simple belts. Craig Green chose multifunctional crossbody bags. Fendi also opted for a multifunctional concept and showed a bag based on a craftsman’s belt, with additional hooks and holders.

How to style them:

A leather belt bag can be paired with suit pants that accentuate the waist for a trendy look. Paired with a loose-fitting, short-sleeved shirt and sleek leather shoes, you’ll have an outfit that’s both formal but also works well in a casual setting. A fanny pack with print or experimental materials is great for a streetwear look – paired with cargo pants or wide-leg pants and a printed hoodie. Sneakers complete the outfit.

Functionality is the main focus of the belt bag. But with its growing presence in designers’ collections, it’s clear that the accessory is worn for more than just its practical use. Despite the sometimes avant-garde updates, the bag has retained its utilitarian purpose and therefore continues to be popular with the masses.

This translated post previously appeared on FashionUnited.uk. Translation and editing: Pia Schulz