Southport Squealer, Part Deux: Fashion is cyclical

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August 27, 2007

Fashion is cyclical

I was reading the Tribune yesterday, and in the Magazine portion they noted that fanny packs are making a comeback. I instantly choked on whatever it was I was eating, because I am pretty sure there is no more hideous garment in the history of mankind. Oh... Well, one other thing, but these are close. There's just a certain image that goes along with the fanny pack:

In the '80s, inexpensive fanny packs made of lightweight fabric were everywhere. Especially Disney World and the Dells.

It didn't take long before they came to be the very emblem of overfed tourists (who should have thought twice about belting an additional pouch on their paunch). Thus began the decline of this useful, if hideous, accessory.

Being marked or mistaken for a tourist is not a good thing. Furthermore, when some of us took a hard look in the mirror, we were forced to conclude that affixing a big, additional lump on our waistline or hindquarters was just not a price we were willing to pay for convenience.

I have to admit, I own a fanny pack. But I have used it exactly twice: for when I want to go running, but need to carry some stuff with me. I strap it to my back, and if I get it just right you don't even know it's there. Long distance running, I think, is one of the few times where fanny packs are currently socially acceptable.

So what makes the turnaround for the fanny pack? I'm guessing they are getting an upgraded, more upscale design. Just like a cheap suit is not fashionable, nor is a cheap fanny pack. I can't see somebody dishing out $100 for one, but if somebody deigns to design one that looks somewhat respectable, I can see it coming back into style. But, I think that is a long, long ways away. Maybe Versace will roll one out at the next fashion show, perhaps?

entry no. 949
Posted by oz115 at August 27, 2007 01:12 PM

Comments

The only things missing in that guy's Bad Fashion Trifecta is a trucker cap, plus those Fubu sweats being tiger-striped.

I remember once on "Seinfeld" when George was wearing a fanny pack, only to have Jerry crack a joke like "So, when are you expecting?" That's how I've thought about fanny packs ever since.

Posted by: Pete at August 27, 2007 02:45 PM

And here I thought the purpose of a fanny pack was as a place to carry your defensive handgun during warm weather. Zippered container - meets Illinois storage regulations.

Posted by: triticale at August 28, 2007 10:42 AM

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