I’m just going to come right out and say it…I love fanny packs. I have always loved fanny packs, before they were in style, when they made their fashion debut, and after they became passé.  I can’t get over them.  And I’m going to make a commitment today- that STYLEARTIST will have at least one stylish fanny pack in stock at all times, whether or not they are trending at that moment.  I am making this promise because when fanny packs are not the bag of the season – they are actually considered quite dorky- it’s impossible to find a stylish one anywhere.  Definition of a stylish fanny pack (and NO it’s not an oxymoron), is one that does not make you look like you are going for a hike and you’re wearing it to carry your music, water and gummies.   It is one that works with your hip daytime outfit- or even your night out ensemble. Here are some facts you may not know about fanny packs:

Perfect for travel. When travelling,  (I used to travel extensively for work and walk around major cities for 10-12 hours a day) all your basic needs- money, hotel key, phone, lipstick, credit card, gum or mints, fit perfectly in a fanny pack.   Keeping your possessions strapped around your waist for many hours, as opposed to hanging on one side of your body- saves you from spending hundreds of dollars on physio after you return.   And for those of you who think a back pack is the best traveller bag for minimal shoulder strain…wrong!  Pick pockets pick out of back packs.  Don’t ever carry your valuables on your back with an accessible unlocked pocket in a foreign city- you are asking for thieves to open it up and take your money.  Carry them in a fanny pack around your waist,  you can even hide it under your coat for extra protection. Hands free.  This is obvious- free hands to do whatever you need to do when you are out and about- whether it is to push a stroller, take photos, or hold a drink, your hands are free and your possessions are safely stored on you. Comfortable.  Do I need to expand on this?  There does come a point in life where comfort trumps all.  When we are comfortable, we are happy.  And by the way, being comfortable is actually hip these days- why do you think everyone is wearing sneakers? I end this fanny pack propaganda with great news- not only is it considered not so dorky to carry one right now, they are actually in style! Many celebrities have been recently spotted with designer versions of the fanny pack- from SJP to Kendall Jenner and Rihanna.  If they aren’t too cool to wear one- you have to ask yourself, are you? Till the next time, do yourself a favour and buy a fanny pack!

Catherine