Are Fanny Packs Back?

Don't be caught off-guard this Spring when you begin experiencing sartorial flashbacks and accessory nostalgia. Whether you actively keep up with the trends or get inspired by the media, you will be noticing a sizable dose of 1970's sensibility in the new collections. Music to the ears of many, it is important to note that this is a fantastic opportunity to express your personal style.

You can shop at vintage stores to get some truly rare finds or invest in new reinvented pieces. While wide-leg trousers and sexy halter tops are some of the obvious wardrobe updates you will be making, there is one accessory this Spring that may evade your fashion radar - the coveted belt purse.

I know what you must be thinking - "But I haven't even completed my crossbody bag collection." Well, you are in luck because many of these hippie inspired accessories actually transform into crossbody purses. For this reason alone, they hold the ultimate must-have status. The designs that await you in the stores are as tantalizing as they are versatile. Take this Mulberry Bayswater Belt Bag, for example. Wear it as a belt bag by day and convert it into a crossbody number by night. It's price is $350 and the belt portion is adjustable.

The Perks

The biggest perk of this bag is that it gives you the ability to use your hands. I know that I am not alone when I say this, I am simply tickled by the idea of having this freedom. You can stay fashionable while fitting all of your essentials into this bag and unlike with a clutch or a satchel, you will never misplace it. The days of searching under restaurant chairs and in airport bathrooms for your purse are over. This accessory is the epitome of comfort and style all bundled into one. But don't get carried away, not all 1970's trends are welcome. So don't try to revive the infamous mullet or attempt to upstage your friends by recreating the popcorn ceiling. Choose your trends wisely.

How to wear

A belt bag can instantly transform the look of an outfit, taking it from drab to fab in seconds. And it doesn't lack in the design department, either. The styles available vary from hippie to modern, from monochrome to multi-toned, making it easy to find a perfect match for any look. Once you invest in one, you will be able to wear the belt bag regardless of your style. Try it with shorts, dresses, skirts, pants, and even jeans. The possibilities are infinite. Just pick an outfit and let it work it's magic.

Depending on the occasion, you can wear the belt bag higher on the waist for a more sophisticated look and sideways, lower on your hips for a more relaxed look.

The key is to seek out quality, so although canvas may be tempting, choose softer leathers that slouch and look for belt bags that have a contrast between the belt and the bag, perhaps a chain belt or a detachable leather strappy belt. Some of the variations actually allow you to remove the purse altogether so you can wear the belt separately. This is the biggest distinction between a belt bag and a fanny pack.

So while you observe old trends make a comeback in 2011, stay away from old terms like the "fanny pack" and call this revived purse what it really is a fabulous belt bag. Be the first of you friends to have one and happy shopping ladies!

-Biana

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