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What Is a Bum Bag?
A bum bag is a popular bag style designed to keep essentials close to the body. It’s typically worn on the waist like a belt, with an adjustable strap and buckle fastening.
A bum bag features one or more compartments for carrying valuables and other items you use on a daily basis.
Many people favour bum bags for their lightweight, hands-free design. They are the ideal style for days out, festivals and travelling.
In this article, we answer frequently asked questions about this type of bag and explore how to wear a bum bag for style and convenience.
Why Is It Called a Bum Bag?
The bum bag name originates from the British slang word "bum," which means buttocks. You can wear a bum bag around the waist, with the pouch or belt resting near the buttocks.
Bum bags are also known as fanny packs, waist bags, moon bags, hip sacks and belly bags. The term "bum bag" is the most common in the UK, while "fanny pack" and "waist bag" are more common in the United States.
In the 1950s, the British people coined the term "bum-bag" to refer to the pouch bag used by skiers while on the slopes. Later, in the 1960s, the United States coined the alternative term "fanny pack."
Where Did Bum Bags Originate From?
The bum bag concept dates back to the Middle Ages, when people carried their valuable possessions in a small pouch. This was fastened to their belt with a hook for security and convenience.
Centuries later, in 19th-century Scotland, the sporran emerged, which comprised a traditional belt bag worn over the kilt.
Fast forward to the 1960s, and an Australian woman called Melba Stone designed a bum bag prototype. She created a bag inspired by a kangaroo's pouch, which became the style we now call a bum bag or fanny pack.
Bum Bag Popularity
The modern bum bag became immensely popular in the 1980s, when athletic-inspired fashion was all the rage. Ravers and festival-goers of the decade wore them too, to accessorise their brightly coloured outfits.
In the late '90s and early '00s, skateboarders picked up the trend, also turning to bum bags as their go-to hands-free accessory.
Bum bags declined in popularity for a while until they had their renaissance in the 2010s. Sportswear, outdoor and luxury brands all designed their own style of bum bag. From Nike to Gucci, bum bags became a casualwear staple for every style and budget.
At this point, high-end designers and streetwear brands started experimenting with styling the bum bag in different ways. They were no longer only worn on the waist — many opted to wear them as crossbody bags.
Beyond the catwalk, there are a few reasons why many people opt for this hands-free alternative. Some find it more comfortable to wear than on the waist. For others, it can feel like a more secure solution to carrying your valuables, particularly if you’re trying to go to places where pickpocketing is a risk.
Bum Bag Popularity
The modern bum bag became immensely popular in the 1980s, when athletic-inspired fashion was all the rage. Ravers and festival-goers of the decade wore them too, to accessorise their brightly coloured outfits.
In the late '90s and early '00s, skateboarders picked up the trend, also turning to bum bags as their go-to hands-free accessory.
Bum bags declined in popularity for a while until they had their renaissance in the 2010s. Sportswear, outdoor and luxury brands all designed their own style of bum bag. From Nike to Gucci, bum bags became a casualwear staple for every style and budget.
At this point, high-end designers and streetwear brands started experimenting with styling the bum bag in different ways. They were no longer only worn on the waist — many opted to wear them as crossbody bags.
Beyond the catwalk, there are a few reasons why many people opt for this hands-free alternative. Some find it more comfortable to wear than on the waist. For others, it can feel like a more secure solution to carrying your valuables, particularly if you’re trying to go to places where pickpocketing is a risk.
How To Wear a Bum Bag
There's no right or wrong way to wear a bum bag. Although bum bags are traditionally worn on the waist like a belt, there are many different ways to style them.
Here are some ideas on how to style a bum bag for different outfits and occasions.
Experiment with these different looks and see what looks and feels best for you.
How to wear a bum bag as a crossbody
To wear a bum bag as a crossbody, adjust the strap so it is long enough to go over your head and under one arm. The pouch bag should sit diagonally across your chest. This style provides easy access to your essentials while keeping them safe from those in your vicinity.
How to wear a bum bag around the waist
Want to wear your bum bag the classic way? Unclip the buckle and place the strap around your waist with the pouch bag facing away from the front of your body. Secure the buckle and adjust the strap so it sits firmly and doesn't fall or move out of place.
How to wear a bum bag over the shoulder
There are more ways to style a bum bag than securing it across or around your body. You can wear it like a traditional handbag or shoulder bag. Adjust the strap so it is long enough to sling over your shoulder, and the pouch part sits by your waist or hip. Carrying your bum bag on your shoulder is less secure than other styling options. Make sure you hold onto the strap and keep an eye on it when passing through crowds or busy areas.
Bum Bag Styling Tips To Complete Your Look
Need some inspiration on how to wear a bum bag fashionably?
Here are our top tips on how to make a bum bag look good for various outfits and occasions.
ADD OF POP OF COLOUR
Introduce a bold or contrasting coloured bum bag as the statement piece of any monochrome look or simple outfit.
SHAPE YOUR LOOK WITH THE BELT
Use your bum bag as a belt to cinch your outfit at the waist or across the body. Transform loose, shapeless clothing and oversized outfits into defined silhouettes.
PLAY WITH PATTERNS AND TEXTURE
Going to a festival or event where you want to stand out? Pick a vibrant print or special fabric to make your outfit shine for the occasion.
ACCESSORISE YOUR BUM BAG
Attach keychains, plushies and other accessories to your bum bag to show your style and creativity wherever you go.
Inspired by these tips?
Here are two Kipling picks that bring them smartly to life:
Kipling ABANU MULTI
This convertible crossbody/bum bag is perfectfor the “play with textures and patterns” advice. Its twin compartments andvibrant colourways make it both functional and fashion-forward.
Kipling Fresh Lite
A lightweight, everyday carry option that nails the “pop of colour” and “belt cinch” suggestions. Its compact build keeps your essentials secure and stylish, without adding bulk.
Ready to find your perfect match?
Explore the full Kipling bum bag collection and discover a style that suits your everyday adventures.
