Wallet chain

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A wallet chain Wallet Chain.JPG
A wallet chain

A wallet chain is a fashion accessory consisting of a chain worn from a belt loop, originally used to hold the wearer's wallet. [1]

History and usage

A person in Tokyo wearing a wallet chain Tokyo undergroud 2010 01 twin apple (4256201733).jpg
A person in Tokyo wearing a wallet chain

Wallet chains were originally worn by bikers to secure their wallets, with one end connected to the wallet and the other to the loop of one's belt. [1] This prevents losing your wallet on the road while riding, [2] as the vibrations can cause the rider's wallet to fall out of their pocket. [3] They were a notable fashion trend in the 2000s, being primarily associated with bikers, streetwear, [4] alternative subcultures such as punk and grunge, [2] and skateboarders. [5] Some chains may feature the logo of a motorcycle club that someone is associated with. [2]

They can also be attached to keys, lighters, or cell phone cases, or used as an anti-theft measure. [2]

References

  1. 1 2 Besser, Rachel (2016-10-19). "Remember This Hot Topic Accessory? It's Back". Refinery29. Retrieved 2025-09-30.
  2. 1 2 3 4 Capraro, Joe (2024-12-19). "What Are Biker Chains And Why Do Motorcyclists Wear Them?". SlashGear. Retrieved 2025-09-30.
  3. Barbieri, Jay (2007). Biker's Handbook: Becoming Part of the Motorcycle Culture. Motorbooks. ISBN   9781610600385.
  4. Dickman, Maggie (2017-06-15). "Wallet chains, flame prints and more: Early 2000s fashion trends are back". Alternative Press Magazine. Retrieved 2025-09-30.
  5. Smith, Russell (2007). Men's Style: The Thinking Man's Guide to Dress. Thomas Dunne Books. p. 148. ISBN   9780312361655.