in defense of belt bags

4 minute read

OUTFIT DETAILS: Kenneth Cole blazer (gifted, similar style here) // GG Maull belt bag (gifted) // Zara skirt (from last year, similar style here) // Self Portrait heels (from last year, but I'm OBSESSED with this pair this year)

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Hip pack. Belt bag. Fanny pack.

Whatever you wanna call them, they're definitely making quite the comeback aren't they? If I had a dollar for every Gucci belt bag I saw during NYFW alone, I probably would have enough cash to buy my own Gucci belt bag. But alas, fashion bets don't quite work that way and I'm without that Gucci cash. Despite that, I hear you can find plenty of fake designer bags that are pretty good quality at a very reasonable price for those on the search for these Gucci belt bags. Admittedly though, this is one of those trends I'm just not sure I could pony up the investment for, if you know what I mean. I'd much rather buy a stunning fake handbag instead.

Thankfully, there are so many different ways to dabble in this trend, starting first with any adjustable shoulder strap bags you may already have that are on the small to mini side. Bonus points if the strap has a belt like buckle to it -- it'll make it easier to cinch around your waist at the desired point. I attempted this with my Chanel bag here originally in this post (sans belt like buckle -- hence the slouchiness of it), and I rather love how it came together. The strap itself is a traditional shoulder length strap that I simply slipped on like a belt and fastened through a belt loop off to the side. Full disclosure: it didn't stay in place ALL too well while walking around, so next time, I'll probably attempt a sturdier way of tying it. If you guys find a way, please do let me know!

Of course, there are so many affordable options available at the moment, that you're guaranteed to find something you like, free of buyer's remorse. I rounded up a few of my favorites below -- most under $200! Need a few outfit ideas? My favorite ways to wear my belt bags as of late: cinched at a high waist point over a long midi dress, over a heavy overcoat, making it feel a bit more tailored and slim and finally, like the above outfit here, layered over a schoolboy blazer with a midi skirt.

And then, of course, you could always enter my giveaway currently going on right now for the very chic, GG Maull belt bag you see here. Just head over to this very Instagram post, like the photo and leave a comment tagging a friend. And that's it! I'll be selecting one winner at random next Wednesday, March 21st at 12pm EST -- best of luck!

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FOR OUTFIT DETAILS: See original post here

[prodl brand="Theory" product="Suede belt bag" description="I love the more flat, envelope style belt bags, like this Theory guy here. It's a bit more sleek and layers nicely over bulkier, heavier items like coats and blazers. I would opt for a classic color, either black or nude, for your starter belt bag." link="http://shopstyle.it/l/BNzq"][/prodl]

[prodr brand="Kate Spade" product="Greenwood Place leather belt bag" description="This Kate Spade belt bag would look amazing over a printed, midi dress and some knee high boots in the same color. This nude color will also work so nicely over spring dresses -- imagine a truly hands-free bike riding experience!" link="http://shopstyle.it/l/BNDK"][/prodr]