Category: What To Buy

Few things are more confidently arrogant than Burberry’s signature beige check pattern. At $550, this micro-bag is an obvious declaration of wealth, but having a disposable income is always a good look. The fabric is a cotton blend with a top zip closure feature, a front zip compartment, stitched panels, a rear buckle fastening, and mesh panels.

Illegible black metal fonts never go out of style. Italian designer Loredena Pinasco’s oversized fanny pack has lots of room and inside netting pockets to keep everything organized. As darkly brutal as it is apocalyptically stylish.

The classic British mod brand offers a simply styled hip pack with two pockets. The corduroy fabric gives the small bag a slightly more distinguished finish and the yellow/black color palette is always a look. Premium leather trim elevates this from a useful accessory into a declaration of good taste.

American Apparel was ahead of the curve when it came to fanny packs before they went out of business. The newly revitalized Los Angeles Apparel stays on-trend with flashy fanny packs in lightweight nylon, keeping true to the early 00’s indie aesthetic that made this label’s original incarnation so ubiquitous. The accessory comes in bright pinks and blues or more modest browns and blacks.

Mishka’s been a staple of streetwear cool since the brand’s founding. Their graffiti-inspired fanny pack is a bold statement piece drawing on classic skateboard styling tropes: checkerboard, flames, and an insidiously cute mascot. The size isn’t quite oversized but can still fit all your essential goods and green.

Moschino’s playful and self-referential couture is far from affordable but it’s a powerfully conspicuous statement when paired with the right outfit. The brand’s signature oversized zippers are somewhat cartoonish, but what else would you expect from the pop-art-influenced label?

In trendy urban areas, Herschel’s affordability and durability have allowed the no-frills brand to become totally omnipresent — and, honestly, fair enough. It’s hard to argue with the $28 price point here, and the garment isn’t likely to fall apart. This particular hip pack is smaller than the average fanny pack, but it’s still got enough room for your wallet and phone.

Jansport always gets a certain age bracket feeling nostalgic, and their bags and backpacks are made to outlast the fond memories. This plain black, inexpensive fanny pack has an adjustable waist belt with a buckle enclosure. Nothing fancy, but totally useful.

Champion’s big, bold label is slapped right on the front of this roomy fanny pack. Although the brand’s been designing with athletes in mind, there’s plenty of everyday use-value in this spacious-but-not-oversized side bag. Note the modest price point.

Thom Browne brings a uniquely American take on fitted mod sensibilities, as seen in this oversized bum bag. Considering Browne’s mostly known for super-skinny fits, the big fanny pack provides a stark contrast with the rest of their wares. The high price point comes with a whole lot of clout. 

With adjustable clips that allow for three different possibilities for wear, Yohji Yamamoto’s ongoing Adidas collab once again brings “a utilitarian approach in creating a versatile, multifunctional piece.” The brand’s label on this is silicone, making it stand out.

Nike’s sturdy hip pack features two zippered pockets, polyester materials, an adjustable strap, and a logo in a subtle anthracite gray. This matches everything but would look especially good on a full monochrome black health goth/athleisure look. 

Even before McQueen’s solo Met show stunned the high art world, any article of the couturier’s impeccably designed garments was a sign of erudite sophistication. This understated fanny pack isn’t as outre as some of McQueen’s more macabre contributions to fashion, but it will instantly win the admiration of true fashion snobs.

Late 80’s / early 90’s color palettes and color blocking are always on-trend. Primitive’s nylon and poly canvas hip bag is a jazz-influenced throwback that clashes (fashionably!) with pretty much any outfit. 

The Boston-based streetwear curators at Bodega have once again struck gold with their selection of the French brand Côte&Ciel. The fresh label’s aesthetic “incorporate[s] a sleek, industrial-style into their designs resulting in unique shapes and unlikely silhouettes. This “highly versatile” bag can be worn as a cross-body, around the waist, or as a tiny backpack. 

If we can put the political buffoonery aside, Off White’s semi-industrial, postmodern/deconstructive designs remain utterly cool. This particular fanny pack looks closer to a Final Fantasy-esque item bag, but the functionality is comparable to other items on this list. The half-translucent buckle is an intriguing detail, as are the small patches on the pouch. Ideal for music festivals, the bag is “constructed with two touch fastener closed pockets along with an adjustable grosgrain belt that boasts the signature jacquard logo branding.”

One of the most iconic hypebeast brands (no shade), Stüssy has been a staple in the California skateboard and hip-hop community since the early ’80s. Vintage Stüssy used to be a hot commodity amongst resellers and second-hand experts, but their newer merch is just as on-trend. Their moderately-priced nylon waist pack features the company’s logo embroidered on the front — for the clout. 

We put Marty and Sarah Love Wrestling at the top of our wrestling podcasts list, and the duo’s merch game is just as strong as their weekly show. This adorably goofy fanny pack, featuring the pod’s resident mischievous space alien, is a cute novelty gift and a campy fashion statement in a playful purple.

So oversized it’s maybe closer to a backpack, BoiPKG’s water-resistant bag is a quirky, urban take on the traditional fanny pack. This queer-owned and operated label is best known for making all-gender undergarments and using non-binary drag performers and transgender Instagrammers as tastefully sexy models — but their ventures outside the world of intimate apparel and underwear are proving fortuitous. At just $35 dollars, this huge bag fits books, gym supplies, a tablet, and whatever else you need for a day or night out. Comes in white, grey, purple, black, and a multicolor variant.

Best Overall: Fred Perry’s barrel bag has a vintage 60’s feel to it. Made with tough PU, a webbing handle, and features a detachable strap, the iconic mod brand pairs perfectly with skinny fit pants and a double-tip polo. The embossed laurel branding exudes poise. Although Perry’s wares were originally designed with tennis in mind, this works as a small carry-on for plane rides as well.

Best for the basics: American Apparel, rebranded as Los Angeles Apparel following some financial struggles, has continued their former incarnation’s thesis by creating totally USA-made products and offering workers fair wages. Their garments are all astoundingly long-lasting, and their bull denim weekender bag is no exception. According to the product description: “Each bag is manufactured and then dyed in batches, giving the thick textile of the bag a weathered texture. These bags can last you a decade and are totally washable. Dyes are extra high quality and will not fade after multiple washes.”

Best constructed: Reigning Champ’s high-end (and high priced) athletic wear is top-notch and worth every penny. The brand’s design aesthetic is notably minimalist. Their signature duffle is made from durable woven nylon and features three different exterior pockets, five interior sleeves, and a soft zip pocket for valuables. The matte black metal detailing shows an attention to detail.

Best for functionality: Puma’s polyester duffel comes with a separate footwear compartment. The roomy interior is perfect for lugging gear to games or as a sturdy piece of transportable luggage. The color palettes available are mostly black, but the bold big cat is an always-fashionable emblem.

Best For Your buck: At a perfect 26” wide, the black/white color palette is the obvious choice as far as Adidas anything goes — but there’s plenty of options to choose from here, including a neon pink for the especially brave. The emphasis is on functionality with this duffel, which features zip end pockets, a water-resistant base, a roomy interior for your gear and essentials.

Best flex: While duffel bags, in general, are meant for function more than fashion, Thom Browne is stunting with this ultra-refined gym bag. With pebbled handles and straps, brass zip enclosures, a grosgrain loop tab, and the designer’s signature thick stripes, the modified proportions make this a standout piece at an eye-popping, ultra-lux price.

Best for variability: Yohji Yamamoto’s Adidas collab consistently “functionality with sophistication to craft.” This duffel uniquely can be transformed into a backpack and “the durable, water-repellent material adds protection against the elements.” Y-3’s black-on-black logo is a subtle nod to the product’s sophistication.

Best for reliability: The square shape on Nike’s 14” wide Brasilia training duffel provides a slightly different silhouette than your average gym bag, but just as much functionality and spaciousness. The pads on the shoulder strap are a necessity for when your gear gets too heavy. When Nike says large, they mean large — so be ready for all the extra room.

Best for incomparable fashionability: Alexander McQueen’s wares are so opulent that their website ensures that every item will be shipped in elegant packaging. You just can’t take it! This deceptively basic duffel has the iconic couturier’s name on the selvedge handles and straps and a black signature fabric lining — it’s extravagant both inside and out. 

Best for flying under the radar: Herschel took hold in New York as a symbol of normcore street smarts, but wearing the brand’s impressive line of accessories doesn’t only denote urban detachment. In fact, Herschel’s goods are just plain well-made. This duffle, described as “the ideal weekend bag” features an internal storage sleeve, reinforced handles, and a signature shoe compartment.

Best for vintage fans: Filson stepped their game up with this highly crafted duffle featuring leather handles and a two-snap grid. The “modern metro” bridle leather enclosure is especially classy, and the water-resistant rugged twill gives the bag a look of old-world elegance.  

Best for indestructibility: Originally intended as industrial clothing for manual laborers, Carhartt’s extremely tough and dependable clothes have somehow become a staple for trendy members of the professional/managerial class and subcultural fashionistas alike. The legacy gear bag is as indestructible as anything else the brand produces, and it’s no surprise the accessory is meant to carry heavyweight tools (even though it’s more likely to hold a carefully folded suit and tie these days). 

Best for vegans: Ben Sherman, another notable mod brand whose designs defined style in the UK in the 60’s and 70’s, is offering this faux leather alternative to the nylon, polyester, and leather options on this list. At just 20 inches long, this travel bag’s “lightweight construction helps you adhere to airline weight restrictions to avoid unneeded airport fees.”

Best for New Yorkers: Founded in 1999, Alife’s was “originally a creative workshop based in Manhattan’s Orchard Street, [the label’s] innovative designs and forward-thinking products propelled them into an internationally renowned streetwear clothing brand and boutique,” according to Hypebeast. Their duffel bag, with daringly un-subtle branding, is a nod to urban know-how from the City that Never Sleeps. 

Brooklyn-based artist Alexander Heir’s apocalyptic art is brought to life on his ultra-fashionable line of inexpensive streetwear. His baggy joggers utilize anti-fascist imagery in embroidered details. Both comfortable and stylish, the P.E.A.C.E. joggers are also reasonably priced at just $55 and come in black or camo.

Eternally minimalist avant-garde designer Yohji Yamamoto has produced some impeccably styled athleisure in his ongoing collaboration with Adidas. The Classic Light Ripstop Utility pant is an impeccably arrogant statement piece. The relaxed fit and smooth taffeta interior mean they’re pretty luxurious, too.

Roland’s drum machines and synthesizers have been the backbone of the best techno and electronica for decades. They’ve recently launched a comprehensive lifestyle brand including smartly designed sweatsuits and loungewear. Extremely cozy but also winkingly smart. Be aware, the sizes run slightly large.

Just in time for the release of Evangelion 3.0+1.0, the Instagram-infamous pop culture purveyors at DUMBGOOD have prepared a Unit 01 inspired look for upscale otaku. If Eva isn’t your thing, DUMBGOOD’s got Seinfeld, Jurassic Park, and The Shining-inspired outfits as well. But even if you’re not familiar with avant-garde Japanese animation, the slick late 90’s color palette on these look great.

Fashion Nova’s menswear has really found its way since its launch a few years ago. Although trendy minimalism is a mark of sophistication, there’s nothing wrong with something slightly louder. Live out your Kill Bill dreams with these bright, Bruce Lee-inspired joggers that can bring a pop of color to any outfit. Besides, who can argue with that price tag?

Manuela Soto Sosa, a Los Angeles-based tattoo artist, has become one of the trendiest illustrators and designers on the West Coast. Her anime-inspired drawings of buxom women are both flirtatious and empowering. She’s more recently begun emblazoning her iconic girls on comfy streetwear — these black sweatpants show off her unique and beloved art style.

90s kids will remember the ubiquity of Champion sportswear in middle school hallways around the world. The brand has more recently become an emblem of normcore style. Show off your anti-fashionable smarts with these affordable and totally retro sweats.

You might not have the purchasing power to cop your own Ferrari quite yet, but Puma’s put the sports car’s logo on these unique cross-branded joggers. Based on a retro design from 1987 that took hold in hip-hop scenes, these pants are a smartly-done throwback and are currently on sale.

There’s something subtly genius about simply doubling Nike’s signature swoosh to make an impactful statement, alongside the text of the onomatopoeic logo. The crisp white/orange/periwinkle color palette is strong, juxtaposed against the pants’ relaxed style. The mid-weight fleece is designed for city living and apartment lounging.

Whether you like it not, the tie-dye trend isn’t going anywhere for now. If bright hippie color palettes aren’t your thing, these slightly more drab black and grey tones could work. The BLM messaging on the logo is, of course, always righteous. Beware: these pants run a bit small, so maybe order a size up from your normal fit.

Brain Dead describes their aesthetic as “disruptive [and] graphic-led … the brand takes its cues from post punk, underground comics, skateboarding, and the spirit of subculture as a whole.” The violent iconography on these sweatpants certainly is representative of those ideas, and there’s something delightfully goth about the look. This piece from their Spring/Summer ‘21 collection is both utilitarian and “otherworldly.”

At the intersection of black metal and cyberpunk is C. by Loredena Pinasco’s exciting clothes for dystopian times. Both edgy and comfy, these joggers from the notorious Italian label let you live your full Neuromancer fantasy and match just about any other athleisure wear you’ve got in your closet. 

Vans have become experts at hitting the sweet spot between stylish, affordable, and durable. These fleece pants are no exception, and the zip utility side pocket is a lifesaver for both skaters and stoners.

Flannels, a UK-based luxury retailer, seems to always have impressive deals on impossible-to-find designer exclusives. These Thom Browne joggers, featuring the label’s signature four thick stripes, are finely tailored for a skinny fit. Think uptight British mod, but then make it cozy.

Deathmatch fighter Allie Kat has won over the hardened hearts of pro-wrestling’s most ravenous fanbase with her toughness, grit, and perpetual desire for belly rubs. Her uniquely feminist and playfully lascivious branding is both empowering and nasty. Be sure to stay thirst trapping and wear these to the next Grey Sweatpants Battle Royale.

Not everyone can afford the brand’s more upscale collabs (like the aforementioned Y3 label), but Adidas still has plenty of classics — at much more attainable prices — to choose from. These simple sweats are a soft cotton-blend meant for stretching before you get sporty.

At less than $20, these are the cheapest sweatpants on the list. You get what you pay for: no graphics, no ornamentation, no interesting styling. Just extremely snuggly fleece from a brand we’ve all come to trust. 

New York-based streetwear brand Alife has become a local symbol of cool in Manhattan and beyond. Their simple sweatpants in bold red have their logo screen printed on the pocket for a subtle proclamation of cultural clout.

Another iconic 90’s brand resurrected as retro-chic, Fila’s recent collabs with a plethora of underground artists and designers have reinvigorated the label. These French terry joggers are part of the company’s celebration of Black History, with some proceeds going towards UNCF.

Icecream has quite suddenly become one of the buzziest streetwear brands around. The brainchild of Pharrell Williams and Japanese DJ Nigo, their graphic design aesthetic and deceptively playful name belies a serious cool-factor. No surprise their sweatpants have become a hot commodity.

Kikillo’s anime-influenced designs are surrealistically fashionable and hypnotically glitchy. This psychedelic, Yu-Gi-Oh-inspired look is far from quiet or work-appropriate, but will definitely leave a strong first impression. With a brushed fleece fabric inside, they’re as soft as they are aesthetic.

Sportswear brand Reigning Champ has become known for their almost frighteningly well-constructed garments and their midweight terry sweatpants are no exception. No frills and nothing fancy, but the perfectly made and sturdy sewing and fabrics easily justify the high price point.

Horror master Junji Ito’s designs have been embraced as masterpieces by both haute couture designers and streetwear enthusiasts alike. Mall goth mainstay, Hot Topic, somehow got ahold of his imagery and slapped some iconically grotesque manga panels onto unexpectedly fashionable sweatpants — at a totally affordable price.

Converse is best known for their legendary footwear but their clothes are eternally on-trend as well. There’s nothing too flashy about these sweatpants, but the brand’s name still carries weight and ensures a degree of durability.

Few brands are trendier than Japanese streetwear line Neighborhood. Their finely constructed garments and clever graphic looks have become high-end essentials for smart hypebeasts. This garment was designed in collaboration with ONE OF THESE DAYS, an apparel line by the LA-based visual and tattoo artist Matt McCormick.