Image via Complex Original
Style trends operate in a never-ending cycle. One fades as another comes to the forefront, and just because something went out of style two decades ago, it doesn't mean that it's gone forever. A recent example of this phenomenon is the resurgence of the waist bag. More affectionately referred to as "fanny packs" by many, the useful accessory highlighted many wardrobes in the mid '90s before transforming into nothing more than a novelty in the decades that followed.
However, the times of these miniature storage accessories being a fashion faux pas are long gone. Over the course of the past year or so, the waist bag has become a viable complement to your outfit in the streetwear space. You no longer have to wear that neon-colored fanny pack you found collecting dust in your attic because tons of awesome brands from Stüssy to Y-3 have gotten in on the trend, and created options worth spending some money on. Plus, a waist bag is super practical. No pockets on that pair of shorts? All you need to do is strap one of these around your waist (or across your chest), and you are good to go.
For anyone who wants to get in on the trend, but isn't sure where to start, take a look at our picks for 15 of the best waist bags on the market right now.
Puma x Rhude Waist Bag
Price: $50
Where to Buy It: Puma
One of the newer options on the list is a bag from Rhude's recent collaboration with Puma. It's the perfect pick if you're trying to rep Rhuigi Villaseñor's growing brand, but are on a bit of a budget.
Y-3 Sling Bag
Price: $180
Where to Buy It: Bodega
Yohji Yamamoto kept it simple with his version of the waist bag. The black bag is emblazoned with a small Y-3 logo in white, and is designed to be worn in a variety of ways.
Stüssy Digi Camo Waist Bag
Price: $42
Where to Buy It: Stüssy
Covered in digi camo. An additional mesh pocket for more storage. On sale. Plenty of reasons to consider this option from this streetwear OG.
Master-Piece Co Link Pouch
Price: $180
Where to Buy It: SSENSE
For anyone looking for a more traditional style, this is your pick. The retro color blocking makes this pair worthy of completing a fit. Or you could use it for your next camping trip.
Alyx Studios Small Waist Pouch
Price: $610
Where to Buy It: LN-CC
Not quite ready to pull off one of Alyx's signature chest rigs? This is a good compromise for fans of Matthew M. Williams tech-inspired label.
The North Face Lumber Pack
Price: $35
Where to Buy It: End. Clothing
It doesn't get much more classic than The North Face. A clean and affordable option.
Columbia x Opening Ceremony Nook Sack Bag
Price: $60
Where to Buy It: Opening Ceremony
Opening Ceremony adds a unique touch to its collaboration with the traditional outdoors brand with a mesh pouch covered in leopard print.
Neighborhood WB N-Waist Bag
Price: $67
Where to Buy It: Union Los Angeles
A clean option from the classic Japanese streetwear label. Its available in some other solid colorways if you are worried about keeping the white option clean.
Junya Watanabe Sling Bag
Price: $256
Where to Buy It: Notre
This military-inspired flip from Junya Watanabe is a good pick for anyone who wants to take a bit more of a risk instead of falling into the more formulaic waist bag styling. You know the quality is going to be on point, too.
A-Cold-Wall* 3M Macro Body Bag
Price: app. $212
Where to Buy It: A-Cold-Wall*
Samuel Ross offers up a colorful purple option complete with silver hardware and reflective detailing to give it some extra pop.
NAPA by Martine Rose H-ARCS Waist Bag
Price: $40
Where to Buy It: Notre
Another retro option inspired by the archive of Italian sportswear brand Napapijri, this waist bag from Martine Rose is constructed of durable yellow polyester, and sports tonal branding across its front velcro pocket flap.
M+RC NOIR Downtown Bag
Price: $99
Where to Buy It: End. Clothing
Lil Uzi Vert and Playboi Carti are fans of this popular Parisian brand that's known for its bags. This neon green option is a worthy choice.
Bape x Porter First Camo Waist Bag
Price: $289
Where to Buy It: Undefeated
There are few patterns more reconizable in streetwear than Bape's First Camo. You can't go wrong with this collaboration with Porter drenched in the yellow camouflage print.
Carhartt WIP Brandon Hip Bag
Price: $68
Where to Buy It: Carhartt WIP
This is the exceptional quality you expect from a brand like Carhartt WIP. The bag features a water repellent pouch to protect any goodies you store inside, and the repeated script branding along the straps is a nice touch, too.
