Crossbody Bags vs. Fanny Packs

Once known as the "uncool" accessory, fanny packs have made a return in a big way to the fashion scene. Also known as waist bags or belt bags, they're worn around the waist and offer another hands-free alternative.

Fanny packs have outgrown their “outdated” style and are now available in a range of high-quality materials, including soft, sustainable leather. Their construction includes adjustable straps and multiple compartments for functional mixed with on-trend details. Latico Leather’s Scout Fanny Pack is a stylish woven leather style that includes helpful features like an interior zippered pocket and pen holders to make your life a little easier.

From sporty and utilitarian to sleek and classic, fanny packs can suit your personal style and transform your outfit from day to day. There's a fanny pack style for every occasion, whether you're hitting the gym, attending a gallery opening, or dancing around a music festival.

Fanny packs first gained popularity in the '80s and '90s as functional accessories. After a break, they're back and ready to make an even more bold style statement, embraced by everyone from celebrities to street style icons. Modern fanny packs are all about versatility. Show off your personality with bold colors & eye-catching patterns, then transform the convertible design from a waist bag to a crossbody or shoulder bag.

Carrying Capacity

Crossbody bags are larger and tend to offer more storage space for daily essentials, making them ideal for busy days and travel days alike. Whether you want to pack an extra book for the coffee shop or a camera for a day trip, you can fit all your daily essentials (and some) in the convenient handbag.

Fanny packs are perfect for streamlining your belongings and embracing a more minimalist approach. These compact companions encourage you to pack only the essentials, making them a perfect match for carefree adventures where you want to travel lighter.

Crossbody bags and fanny packs are the ultimate style sidekicks, effortlessly transforming your outfit game. Crossbody bags effortlessly transition from office chic to evening glam, while fanny packs embrace a playful punch, perfect for everything from casual hangout with friends to festivals. The Grace crossbody has a pair of leather tassels to bring some fun to any look.

Pair a crossbody bag with tailored wide leg pants for a sophisticated look, or go for a fanny pack like the Solstice Fanny Pack with high-waisted shorts for the perfect festival look.

Weight Distribution & Comfort

Weight distribution is a huge plus with crossbody bags. Their diagonal fit evenly disperses heavy items for all-day comfort. Meanwhile, fanny packs gracefully embrace your waist, keeping weight off shoulders and allowing mobility. Whether you're conquering the city or dancing the night away, both styles ensure you're light on your feet.

Movement & Mobility

Crossbody bags offer a seamless transition while digging in your bag out and about, ideal for bustling city streets and shopping trips where you need to be quick and stylish. On the flip side, fanny packs are perfect for when you don’t want to notice you have a bag: perfect for hiking trails, dancing at music festivals, or cycling through your favorite park.

Whether you're an urban explorer or an outdoor enthusiast, both styles ensure you move with ease, no matter where your journey takes you.

Material Durability 

Material durability is where the allure of high-quality leather like Latico Leather’s full grain leather truly shines. Full grain leather, a staple in both crossbody bags and fanny packs, adds a touch of sophistication and endurance to your accessory assortment. Its timeless appeal withstands the test of time and develops character with age, making it a worthwhile investment.

In addition to leather, crossbody bags and fanny packs often feature sturdy fabrics like canvas and other materials. To keep your leather accessories in prime condition, wipe down with a damp cloth if dusty.

Which Handbag is Right for You? 

To make the perfect choice, consider your lifestyle, activities, and personal style. Are you a traveler, an urban explorer, or a fashionista seeking statement pieces? Ask yourself these questions to find the right handbag for you:

• Do you need a versatile bag for various occasions from work to play?

• Are you drawn to a hands-free approach to move as much as possible?

• Do you prefer a minimalist or a more organized storage style?

• Does your daily routine involve heavy items or lots of movement?

If you're heading to a music festival or a hiking trail and want to travel ultra-light, a fanny pack is your go-to. If you need to carry a wallet, phone, keys, sunglasses, and a few extras throughout the day, a crossbody bag gives you the organization and capacity to do it all in style.

Still not sure? Take our Perfect Bag Finder Quiz.

In the debate between crossbody bags and fanny packs, there's no clear winner – it's all about what aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. Both styles offer unique features, catering to different needs and personal styles.

Embrace the freedom to choose, mix, and match according to your mood and the occasion. After all, fashion is a celebration of your individuality, and your accessories should reflect just that. So, whether you're a crossbody bag enthusiast or a fanny pack fanatic, you can’t go wrong.

FAQ

What is the difference between a crossbody bag and a fanny pack?

The main difference is how and where you wear them. A crossbody bag hangs diagonally across your body, typically resting at the hip, and usually offers more storage space with multiple pockets and compartments. A fanny pack (also called a belt bag or waist bag) wraps around your waist or hips and keeps your essentials right at arm's reach with a more compact footprint.

Can a fanny pack be worn as a crossbody bag?

Yes, and that's one of the biggest reasons belt bags have had such a strong comeback. Many styles, including convertible designs, can be adjusted to wear across the body as a crossbody, slung over one shoulder, or worn at the waist. It's two bags in one, depending on the look you're going for.

Which is better for travel - a crossbody bag or a fanny pack?

Both work well for travel, but in different ways. A crossbody bag gives you more room to carry travel essentials like a passport, sunglasses, a small camera, and a water bottle. A fanny pack is the better pick when you're moving quickly through airports, navigating crowds, or just want to keep your hands completely free. For longer travel days, a crossbody with a secure zip closure is a practical choice. For day trips and excursions, a fanny pack keeps things light.

Are fanny packs still in style?

Very much so. Belt bags have been a fixture on runways and in street style since their comeback in the late 2010s, and they've only grown more versatile since then. Modern versions in full grain leather, rich colors, and sleek silhouettes have moved them well past their athletic origins. Worn at the waist with a sundress or slung across the chest over a blazer, today's fanny pack reads as a deliberate style choice.

What should I look for in a leather fanny pack?

Prioritize full grain leather for durability and a patina that improves over time. Look for an adjustable strap so you can move between wear styles, and check that the closure is sturdy enough for daily use. Interior organization matters too: even a compact bag benefits from a slip pocket or two so your essentials don't get buried.

Is a crossbody bag good for everyday use?

A crossbody bag is one of the most practical choices for everyday carry. The hands-free wear style makes it easy to move through your day without constantly setting your bag down, and the adjustable strap means you can customize the fit. For everyday use, look for a size that holds your core items (phone, wallet, keys) without overloading the strap.