The Ultimate Guide to Shearling Bum Bags: A Winter Style Staple

The Rise of the Shearling Bum Bag

Bum bags, also known as fanny packs or belt bags, have seen a major revival in recent years. What was once seen as a dated 90s trend has now become a mainstream fashion accessory. Leading this comeback is the shearling bum bag - a fluffy, tactile take on the classic bum bag style.

Why Choose a Shearling Bum Bag?

Shearling bum bags stand out for their soft, wooly texture. Made from sheepskin shearling, they have a cozy, luxurious look and feel that contrasts nicely with the sporty silhouette of a standard bum bag. This makes them an on-trend accessory that adds stylish texture and comfort to any outfit.

The wooly shearling material also makes these bum bags very winter-appropriate. As a crossbody bag, the shearling helps keep your core warm while adding a stylish touch. The texture and flair of shearling bum bags makes them a popular choice during the cooler months.

How to Style a Shearling Bum Bag

Shearling bum bags are versatile accessories that can be styled in many different ways. Here are some top tips for rocking a shearling bum bag with confidence:

• Pair with winter outfits like leather jackets, chunky knits, and oversized coats to complement the cozy vibe
• Go for tonal looks by matching other earthy tones like beige, brown, tan
• Contrast against crisp casual looks like jeans and a white T-shirt to make the shearling texture pop
• Wear crossbody over dresses and skirts to add some textural interest
• Choose a small shearling bum bag for a cute hands-free look or go larger to use as an everyday bag

Everyday Shearling Bum Bags

For running daily errands, a medium or large shearling bum bag works well. Look for one with multiple compartments to organize essentials like your phone, wallet, keys and more. An adjustable waist strap will ensure you get the perfect custom fit.

Softer sheepskin shearling that drapes nicely when worn makes for an effortlessly stylish everyday bum bag. More structured shapes hold their form better if you want something compact. Consider a shearling bum bag in a neutral color like tan, gray or oatmeal for maximum versatility.

Cute Mini Shearling Bum Bags

For events, nights out or festivals, a cute mini shearling bum bag is a great hands-free choice. Small crossbody bags are very on-trend and will instantly elevate any outfit.

Look for a compact shearling bum bag with a short strap designed to be worn high on your waist or across your chest. Mini bags don’t hold much, but can fit all your evening essentials like phone, cards and lipgloss.

Go for bold colors or even multi-colored shearling for a fun statement look. Short shearling in bright white also makes for an eye catching mini bum bag.

How to Make Your Own DIY Shearling Bum Bag

Want to create your own custom shearling bum bag at home? Crafting your own belt bag allows you to achieve just the look, size and color you want.

Making a shearling bum bag is also a great way to upcycle old shearling items like a jacket. Here’s what you’ll need and how to put one together:

Materials

• Shearling fabric - at least 2/3 yard for a medium bum bag. Recycle shearling clothes or purchase new fabric.
• Sturdy canvas or twill for outer structure
• Matching sewing thread
• 1” wide belt strap adjuster and slider buckle
• Hook and loop tape
• Sewing supplies like fabric scissors, needles etc

Instructions

1. Cut your outer canvas to be approximately 12 inches long x 5 inches high. Cut shearling fabric to the same size.
2. Layer the shearling on top of the canvas, with the suede side facing outwards. Cut another slightly smaller rectangle of canvas for the inner lining.
3. Sew the shearling layer to the outer canvas along the bottom and sides, leaving the top edge open. Then attach the inner lining canvas piece along the bottom and sides as well, creating a case with the shearling sandwiched in between the canvas layers.
4. To create a pocket, sew an additional shearling rectangle about 8 inches x 5 inches to the outer front side of the case. Sew along 3 edges, leaving the top open to insert items into the pocket.
5. Attach your belt strap hardware to the back outer canvas, centered horizontally about 2 inches down from the top. The placement allows room for the flap and keeps weight centered on your hip.
6. Sew strips of hook and loop tape to the underside of front shearling flap and onto back of pouch. This will allow the flap to fold over top and fasten closed.
7. Try your custom shearling bum bag on and adjust strap for comfort! Load up with daily essentials and flaunt your new stylish accessory.

Get the Shearling Bum Bag Look For Less

Genuine high quality sheepskin shearling can be quite pricey. But don't let that stop you from rocking the fuzzy bum bag trend! There are some budget friendly ways to get the fluffy shearling look for less.

Faux Shearling Fabric

Synthetic shearling made from polyester or acrylic fibers may not be as soft and breathable as genuine sheepskin. But faux fabric gives you the same fluffy textured appearance at a fraction of the cost. Craft stores like Hobby Lobby sell plush faux shearling by the yard that you can use to fashion your own shearling accessories and shearling-look garments.

Shearling Patchwork

Another cost-cutting technique is to incorporate small patches of genuine shearling onto inexpensive base materials like canvas or faux leather. Place fluffy shearling panels onto areas that will stand out, like the flap or front pocket of a bum bag. Mixing in patches of real shearling surrounded by cheaper fabrics creates the look of a pricey full shearling accessory for less.

DIY Shearling Style

Check your local Goodwill or thrift stores for old genuine shearling items like coats. Refashion the shearling fabric into brand new modern accessories like bum bags, hats or winter shoe liners. With some creative sewing skills and recyclable source material, you can DIY your own shearling style pieces.

Upcycling old shearling is also eco-friendly. So you can stay on trend while keeping shearling out of landfills.

Don't be afraid to get crafty with faux fabrics and shearling scraps. With some imaginative ideas, you can fashion fuzzy shearling bum bags and other style staples without blowing your winter shopping budget.

FAQs

How do you clean a shearling bum bag?

Use a soft bristle brush to gently remove dirt from shearling bum bags. For deeper cleaning, specialists recommend gently hand washing shearling with mild soap and drying flat away from direct heat. Take care not to over-wash shearling as this can damage the delicate fibers.

Are shearling bum bags vegan?

No, most shearling bum bags are made from genuine sheepskin which involves animal products. Faux shearling made from synthetic fibers can provide a vegan alternative with a similar fluffy appearance.

Where should you wear a mini shearling bum bag?

Small shearling bum bags work well for night outs, concerts, travel and festivals. Wear them around your waist or diagonally across your chest for a stylish hands-free accessory. Mini bags won't hold large essentials but can carry event basics like phone, cash and lipgloss.

What shearling colors match with everything?

Opt for versatile neutral shearling bum bag colors like black, gray, white or tan. These softer earth tones will match with cool and warm outfits alike for year-round wearability.