10 unexpectedly chic belt bags to elevate your style

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10 unexpectedly chic belt bags to elevate your style

By Stylist Fashion Team

5 years ago

Think that bum bags are strictly festival attire only? Think again. A generation of luxe belt bags are here to prove that hands-free can still be ultra-chic. 

There were two things we thought strictly only belonged at Glastonbury: bucket hats and bum bags. The ultra-practical preserve of festival goers and tourists alike, the bum bag felt about as chic as socks and sandals, until now. 

For s/s 2020 Fendi gave bucket hats a catwalk-approved makeover, and bum bags were quick to follow suit. Thanks to the attention of fashion powerhouses from Burberry to Loewe, Gucci to Prada, the not-so-humble bum bag has been elevated to new heights to chic with a new generation of streamlined, minimalist designs in luxe fabrics and attention-grabbing colourways. 

May we have the pleasure of re-introducing the bum bag, now better known as the belt bag. 

Striking the perfect balance between effortlessly cool and playfully chic, these structured purses make for a new twist on hands-free accessorising. The best part about these new, grown-up styles? You can style them with any outfit. Whether worn to cinch in an oversized blazer or belted over a printed midi dress, this versatile bag is the perfect piece to instantly add interest to even the most understated of outfits. 

Whether you’re looking for a statement-making piece or a designer style that feels every bit as polished as a classic top-handle style, we’ve found the best belt bags to add to your new season wardrobe now. 

Cos

This streamlined style is the perfect piece to belt over buttoned-through blazer or oversized cardigan. Though also available in black, this vibrant orange design showcases serious style prowess. 

Shop Cos leather belt bag, £69

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Ganni

Stockholm-based brand Ganni’s designs always exude laidback Scandi street style, and this colourful design is no exception. This jewel-toned hue is the perfect piece to add interest to a timeless trench coat through spring or a white linen dress come summer. 

Shop Ganni leather belt bag, £345

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Burberry

The belt bag has had an ultra-luxe makeover thanks to the attention of British heritage brand Burberry. This caramel-tan design feels polished enough to wear into the office, while the gold hardware will instantly add sparkle to neutral-toned suiting. 

Shop Burberry Envelope quilted-leather belt bag at Matches Fashion, £690

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Topshop

If you secretly love the original bum bag aesthetic but are looking for something a little more sophisticated, you’ll love this rebellious zip-up style. Whether you wear it at your waist or slung over your shoulder, this bag makes for a playful take on the trend. 

Shop Topshop black diagonal zip bum bag, £16

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Wandler

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Zara

Maximalists rejoice: this bold, colourful style is set to spark joy in your wardrobe. Pair with blue denim and a crisp white shirt for a playful weekend look that doesn’t feel too ‘done’. 

Shop Zara multicoloured belt bag, £29.99

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Loewe

Crafted in Madrid using traditional leatherwork techniques, Loewe’s interpretation of the belt bag is one of the most sophisticated we’ve seen. This rich shade of brown will work with all our spring outfits, and will look just as chic worn belted over a classic camel coat come autumn. 

Shop Loewe Gate bum bag in tan, £1,000

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MCM

Streetwear has reigned supreme as a major trend for a few seasons now, and this logo printed leather belt bag by MCM offers all the laidback cool of a sportswear-inspired aesthetic, but feels luxe enough to wear with a chic top for a effortless evening look.  

Shop MCM Fursten belt bag, £385

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Images: courtesy of brands

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