From The Straits Times    |

 

2017 is the year where designers stand dorky fashion faux pas on their heads and accept them into once exclusive world of high fashion. One would simply have to look at  Balenciaga’s Crocs to know what we’re getting at here. But here’s a resurging trend we’re not mad about: fanny packs.

The once-embarrassing bum bag we used to associate with kopitiam uncles (or even our endearingly dweeby dads at family vacations) has become the accessory of 2017 – having been spotted on fashion IT girls the world over, and even on the runways of fashion houses who had served up luxe iterations of their own.

 

ALSO READ: HEY GALS, THE ’90S CALLED… ABOUT THAT FANNY PACK? THEY SAY YOU CAN KEEP IT

 
 

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In all its quirkiness, the fanny pack started trickling down into mainstream fashion when Gucci and Louis Vuitton gave it the high-fashion treatment during their Fall/Winter 2017 shows. But it looks like the trend’s not heading anywhere soon. Fanny packs prove to be a strong contender across the Spring/Summer 2018 shows with the likes of Gucci and Anteprima sending the lavish – and incredibly cute – waist hugging pouch down their runways.

Modernised in minute, sleek silhouettes, luxury fabrics (forget cheesy neon materials!) and pretty belts, the fanny packs of the decade recall a spirited 80s’ nostalgia.

 

 

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If you’re still scowling at the idea of rocking one of these maligned accessories yourself, allow us to show you how to style em’ right. You just might be convinced to leave your heavy shoulder tote at home and travel hands-free to work for good this season – we know we would be.

 

 

Casual off-duty

 

L — R: Off-White Hoodie, $774; Vetements + Levi’s Jeans, $1,176.44 ; Louis Vuitton Vintage Pochette Florentine Bum Bag, $1,131; Versace Platform Boots, $1,866

Team a downsized bum bag with a cropped hoodie and a pair of high rise trousers for a casual outfit perfect for a day of errand running. Switch up the edge by finishing off the look with platform boots.

 

Office wear

L — R: Zara Sweater, $29.90; Valentino Studded Boots, $1,707; Monse Off-shoulder Bag, $3,398; Prada Belt Bag, $2,340

For an elegant, high fashion take on your everyday office wear, pair a simple turtleneck sweater with an off-shoulder dress and some glamorous ankle boots. Cinch your waist with a convertible fanny pack instead of the usual belt to seamlessly incorporate it to your outfit.

 
Date night

L — R: Ellery Top, $1,724.84; Zara Necklace, $45.90; Valentino Rockstud Pumps, $1,222; Saint Laurent Belt Bag, $1,380; Balmain Metallic Pants, $1,920.36

You’ll look like a total bombshell while clad in a crop top with statement sleeves and metallic wide leg pants. You’ll get the best of both worlds with this ensemble: sexy, and classy. To boot, anchor the look with a pair of quilted pumps and a bejewelled necklace and wear an eye-catching square belt bag at the waist.

 

Party look

L — R:  NK Crop Top, $508; Gucci Leather Belt Bag, $1,146.17; Zara Headband, $17.90; Charlotte Olympia Sandals, $453; Moschino Flared Trousers, $623

 

Here’s a fresh take on your average party look! Team a crop top with a pair of flare jeans evocative of the 70s’ hippie movement and complete the fun outfit by slinging your fanny pack across your chest. Let your inner flower child sing by slipping on some sculptural-heeled sandals, and fixing up your hair in a floral turban-style headband.