I can’t lie. When belt bags hit the stores, I totally laughed at them. All I could think of were the fanny packs and bum bags of the 80’s and 90’s. Not cute and not going to work for this woman.
But more and more, they came peeking through on Instagram and Pinterest, and I had to give the whole thing a go. I have to say, while I don’t think this is something I am going to be rocking for the next ten years, it is a fun fashion trend to play around with.
I searched high and low for a plus size specific belt bag, and really struggled to find anything that wasn’t obnoxious, overly detailed and loud. This is a common theme with plus size fashion for some reason. Finding classic, timeless pieces feel like a near impossibility most of the time.
(There was one belt bag from Universal Standard that would have fit the bill, but it has been out of stock for months, and I don’t know if they will be bringing it back. It also hooks onto your chose belt, and doesn’t come with the belt.)
So, I ordered the Madewell belt bag for it’s simplicity, and I hoped and prayed that the XXL would fit. I am normally a 24 (or 36/37 at Madewell), and while the belt bag fits at my natural waist, that is about it. I can’t use it lower on my hips at all.
So, I also fashioned my own belt bag from an adjustable crossbody bag! Because I refuse to let the fashion industry dictate what I get to wear, and I want a simple, cute, leather belt bag that actually fits!
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Canadian Tuxedo
TOP / / JEANS / / BELT BAG / / SHOES / / EARRINGS
I am kind of loving the double denim trend that is a chambray top with dark skinny jeans. It is a little bit nostalgic, but with the right pieces can be really pulled together and stylish.
Beach Chic
DRESS / / SANDALS / / BELT BAG / / EARRINGS
I grabbed this maxi dress from Loft a few weeks ago, and never got to share it before it sold out, but I absolutely love it. I’ve linked a similar one above, but love the high slit and dolman sleeves. Throwing the belt bag on with this helps break up the all black and redefine the waist.
Sunshine Yellow
DRESS / / SHOES / / JACKET / / BELT BAG
I’m loving this midi dress I grabbed at Modcloth a few weeks ago. It’s fun and bright, and I feel so happy each time I put it on. I took the belt off of the belt bag to wear solo and use the bag as a little clutch. That is one plus side to the Madewell belt bag – versatility!
DIY Belt Bag
SKIRT / / TANK / / SHOES / / DIY BELT BAG
I bought this crossbody bag specifically to wear during the summer to the park. It perfectly fits my keys, phone and has a couple slots for my debit and metro card. Just the essentials! It is nice and flat, and Hobo bags are some of my favorite. I just did a little adjusting to the strap in order for it to fit around my waist. It isn’t super tight, but I love the relaxed vibe you get from this look.
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