The Fanny Pack: From Retro to Runway
Once dismissed as a relic of the past, the fanny pack has made a major comeback—going from a practical tourist staple to a full-fledged fashion statement. But how did this hands-free pouch come to be, and why is it suddenly everywhere again?
The earliest versions of fanny packs date back
centuries, with indigenous people across various cultures using small pouches tied around their waists for carrying essentials. But the modern fanny pack, as we know it, gained popularity in the 1980s and '90s, when neon-colored nylon versions were the go-to accessory for travelers, festival-goers, and anyone who wanted to keep their hands free while keeping their valuables close.
After spending the early 2000s as a punchline for outdated fashion, the fanny pack began its resurgence in the mid-2010s. High-end designers like Gucci and Louis Vuitton rebranded it as the “belt bag,” making it chic enough for runways and streetwear culture. Soon, celebrities and influencers were spotted wearing them slung across their chests, making them both fashionable and functional once
again.
Today, fanny packs are embraced by everyone—from hikers to fashionistas—proving that a good idea never really goes out of style. So, if you have one tucked away in the back of your closet, it might be time to bring it back into rotation.
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