A PURSE IS MORE THAN A LAST-MINUTE FASHION ACCESSORY. PURSES ARE PORTABLE STORING SPACES SO THAT YOU CAN HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED ON THE GO.
Long commute? Equip yourself with a kindle. Got a cold? Store an endless supply of tissues at the ready.
Before packing, decide on what you need so you don't end up with a bag full of clutter. It's difficult to prioritize when you're unsure of plans, so to help you, I've compiled a list of what to keep in your purse.
But first, let's talk about the bag I'm currently using!
My bag is the Bea Crossbody from Coach. It's a simple black bag that goes with everything and I can sling it over my body to make it hassle free!
Features of my bag:
Refined calf leather
Eight credit card slots
Inside zip and multifunction pockets
Snap closure, leather lining
Top handle with 1/2" drop
Outside open pocket
Detachable chain strap with 21 1/2" drop for shoulder or crossbody wear
This could be a bit too small and structured for some but it works perfectly for me and fits my personal essentials.
Now, onto the important stuff!
1. WALLET, PHONE AND KEYS
These three items are crucial for modern-day life: phone, wallet, and keys. Your wallet should fit snugly into your purse so you can grab it when needed. It should contain your ID or driver's license, credit cards, and cash.
Invest in a portable phone charger so your phone never runs out of juice on the road. And slip your keys into a small, secure side pocket so they can't fall out or get stolen.
2. TRAVEL PACK TISSUES AND TOILETRIES
A small pack of tissues is a life-saver even if you don't suffer from allergies. They're useful after a spill, during an unexpected cold and a great way to show kindness to sniffling strangers.
Be prepared with a small toiletries bag and keep it in your purses. Fill it with 3-5 pads or tampons, sunscreen, and mini vaseline. Vaseline is a versatile must-have for your purse. It acts as a lip balm, prevents blisters, removes makeup and works as a moisturizer. If your purse is smaller like mine, use a side pocket or just pack em' in tight!
Also, add hand sanitizer to the collection. Although hand sanitizers will never replace a thorough handwash, they combat the germs we face daily in public transit, bathrooms, and your phone screen. To add some character, get one of those cute holders! We're usually more encouraged to carry things we visually enjoy!
3. BREATH MINTS OR CHEWING GUM
Carrying these will give you that just-brushed feeling, great after meals and before impromptu meetings. You never wanna be caught with bad breath!
4. MAKEUP BAG
Having makeup on you means you're prepared for last-minute meetings or dinner parties! Fill up a bag with your basics like eyeliner, lipstick and lip balm for throughout the day. I keep a small bag about a hand's length to store my essentials for my smaller bag! Throw in some elastics too for my long haired girlies! You never wanna be stuck out and wanting your hair up!
6. A HEALTHY SNACK (or maybe not so healthy?)
If you store a selection of snacks, be sure to have a zip-lock bag to contain the crumbs and keep your purse clean.
7. SAFETY ITEMS
Although it most likely won't be necessary, keep several safety items in your purse. To feel empowered, stash a can of pepper spray, a whistle or even a personal safety alarm which goes off when you activate it.
Ensure you store these in a concealed but accessible zipped pockets. Before stocking up on safety items, learn how to use them and check whether your local area has any restrictions on which items you can or can't carry. I personally keep a cute little pocketknife in my purse, so if anyone's reading this and planning on robbing me? WATCH OUT. I have one and don't know how to use it.
NOW YOU KNOW WHAT TO KEEP IN YOUR PURSE
Once you know what to keep in your purse, you'll eliminate clutter and have a neat, organized purse. Be prepared for everything, from sneezing fits to blisters, to avoid any mishaps during your busy day. Also, ensure you're keeping yourself protected in the dangerous Los Santos street.
Thanks for tuning in and let us know your purse must have's and what you're carrying!
-Mimi ᥫ᭡