I was this close to titling this piece “Why You Should Start Wearing Palazzo Pants Again,” but let’s be honest—I’ve never liked the word Palazzo. It feels too dramatic, like I’m supposed to be strutting through an Italian villa at sunset. So instead, let’s talk about another once-trendy item that you probably shoved in the back of your closet: the fanny pack. Yes, that fanny pack you bought in a moment of bold optimism, wore once (maybe), and then abandoned because you weren’t quite sure how to pull it off.
But before we dive into how to style it, let’s have a quick little history lesson, because I was curious myself about how this quirky bag earned its very memorable name.
A Brief History of the Fanny Pack
The fanny pack—or as the British insist on calling it, the bum bag (since “fanny” means something entirely different across the pond)—is essentially a small zippered pouch made of leather or fabric, attached to a strap that sits around your waist. Very practical, very hands-free, very tourist-at-Disneyland.
The name comes from the fact that these bags were once worn with the pouch resting just above the buttocks. “Fanny” in American slang, “bum” in British slang. Makes sense linguistically, but let’s be honest: I’ve never seen anyone wear it that way, not even in those black-and-white snapshots from the late 19th century when people apparently first experimented with the concept. The practicality of strapping a pouch to your backside remains a mystery. Why would anyone want to sit on their belongings? Anyway, history lesson over. Let’s talk about how to make the fanny pack actually look good.
The Modern Way to Wear It
Here’s the truth: if you ask me, there’s really only one way to wear the fanny pack in 2025—and that’s anywhere except around your waist. Sure, some effortlessly cool people can pull off the traditional styling, but for most of us, it looks a little too much like we’re on our way to an airport security line.
Instead, think of the fanny pack as a crossbody bag’s sportier cousin. Sling it across your chest or drape it over one shoulder so it sits diagonally at the front or back. Not only does this feel more current, but it also gives the bag a totally new vibe—less tourist, more street-style star. It becomes less about practicality and more about making a statement, while still being functional. Hands free, chic, and suddenly… very wearable.
A Nod to the Original
For fun, I did try it the “official” way—buckled at the waist—just to see how it would feel. And while it gave me major ’90s nostalgia, I couldn’t help but laugh. It’s one of those looks that works in theory or on someone with a very specific kind of energy. For me, it just didn’t click. But if you love it, by all means, rock it proudly. Sometimes the best looks are the ones that feel the most “you.”
Why the Fanny Pack Deserves Another Chance
So why bring this little pouch back into rotation at all? Well, aside from the fact that fashion is a revolving door and everything eventually gets a second life, the fanny pack has some undeniable strengths:
- Hands-free convenience: No more juggling your phone, keys, and iced coffee.
- Travel-friendly: Perfect for city exploring when you don’t want to lug around a tote.
- Style versatility: Whether sleek leather or sporty nylon, there’s a version that fits your wardrobe.
The key is in the styling. Worn across the chest, it suddenly feels intentional—like you’re in on the trend rather than fighting against it.
Final Thoughts
Fashion has a funny way of taking something we once swore off forever (looking at you, low-rise jeans) and finding a way to make it feel fresh again. The fanny pack is no exception. With the right styling trick, it’s less dad-on-vacation and more downtown-cool.
So dig yours out from the back of your closet. Wear it slung over your shoulder, draped across your chest, or however feels right to you. Just maybe skip the “fanny” placement. We’ve evolved past that, thankfully.
