Belt purse: women’s accessory trendlet

I hazard to use the term ‘fanny pack’ (or, ‘bum bag’ as it’s colloquially known in Australia and the UK): not only do such terms lack elegance, but they tend to hark back to the days where such items were made from neon coloured nyon and fastened around with parachute clips. More importantly though, the term is not entirely accurate as it relates to this particular fashion trend in 2011; as an accessory trend it has not only moved on, but moved up – several inches.

So we’ll label this trendlet affectionately as the belt purse or belt pouch – 2011′s elegant take on the fanny pack.

The belt purse: what is it

This one is fairly self-explanatory. It’s a small pouch or purse that’s worn strapped around the waist or hips. The pouch can be a seperate accessory – removable, and able to be interchanged with different belts; or can come attached to a strap.

Belt purse worn by Hanneli.

In 2011:

* It’s best when sitting higher, at the waist, to create a sophisticated shape and to seperate the look from being too functional. That said, it can also work at the hip or lower-slung for a more casual take as long as the style is elegant.
* Either way, go for luxury fabrication: leather belt purses are definitely best, and the strongest style for 2011.

Belt purses from Hermes SS11, Pucci SS11, and Dianne Von Furstenberg SS11. Images: style.com
What to wear it with

* A waist-cinching leather belt with a little belt bag / belt purse is perfect for pairing with a long, flowing maxi dress.
* With some tassel detailing to add a luxury bohemian touch, a la Emilio Pucci pictured above.
* Through the belt-looks of a sophisticated, high-waist pair of tailored pants or flares.
* With a clean, minimal cocktail dress for evening time, perfect for storing a credit card and a lipstick.