One thing I know for certain I’ll always need – is a handbag. What girl doesn’t? I often wonder how the guys do it. Sooo, they just put everything in their pockets? #MindBlown.
This girl needs a place to stash all her essentials. Or, to stuff all my trash. Kidding! But, you know, its gets messy in there. Side note, lately I’ve been loving the backpack-as-a-purse trend. The weight is evenly distributed on my back, making it less painful to carry than a shoulder bag. And, it leaves my hands free so I can grab all the things when shopping! This is especially convenient living in a city where I’m always running to catch a bus or train.
Handbags are so personal and vary from person to person so I thought I’d share what I have inside mine.
The following are what I keep in there daily or I’ll lose my mind: (OK, that’s a bit dramatic, but you get the point)
1. Wallet
Let’s get the obvious out of the way first. Everyone needs a wallet! Usually I’m into smaller ones like these. (I’d been hooked on those since college!) When you really think about it – you don’t need to carry much. Going back to men – they pack everything in a small wallet or money clip! (How?)
But, my mother got me what I like to call this “adult” Kate Spade wallet last Christmas and it was probably my favorite gift of all! Moms – they always get us things we never knew we needed am I right? I definitely appreciate the upgrade.
2. Makeup Pouch
So this is a very unique item that I can’t get enough of. I don’t know what era it’s from, but it seems old. I found this bag (pouch?) thing at a thrift store in Baltimore years ago and bought it on a whim. I am HOOKED. If anyone knows where to find these or what these are called please let me know, because this one is taking a beating!
This carries all of my lip products. I carry a variety of colors – I usually do my makeup at home and then choose a lipstick later while I’m on the train to work. Under the flap is a mirror – which is so handy for reapplications throughout the day.
3. MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation
Thanks to good primers and setting sprays (which I swear by!), makeup stays in place on my face for the most part. But just in case, I keep this in my bag for any touch ups I may need.
4. The Book of the moment
Whatever book I’m currently reading – is always with me. Living in a city like Chicago there’s ample opportunity to bust one out. Waiting for the train, sitting on the train, doctors’ offices, lunch breaks at the park, you name it.
5. Headphones
Again, I live in the city – need I say more? These are an absolute must-have for pretty much the same reasons I listed for books. There’s nothing worse than a silent train ride. And of course, who could live without headphones at the gym?!
6. Sunglasses
I play with different styles, but 9 out of 10 times you’ll find my Ray-Bans in my bag. These are sturdy – typically I don’t like thin frames because I tend to break those. Plus, they’re classic, no fuss, and match with everything. I like that the lenses aren’t too dark so they don’t disrupt my view. (my pet peeve!) I’ll always go back to Ray-Bans.
7. Hair Essentials
I always keep a brush, serum and hair ties on me. If I see that my ends are getting dry I quickly rub CHI hair serum or argan oil on them. If a hair is out of place – I’ve got a brush for that. If I’m going to the gym? I’ve got hair ties to sweep my hair up in a bun. By the way, have you made the switch to spiral hair ties yet? They hold your ponytail without putting too much stress on your hair, and it doesn’t leave a dent.
