WHAT’S IN MY BAG

 

My infatuation with large purses ended after I was gifted with my first crossbody bag. I was never particularly fond of small handbags because I never wanted to leave any of my necessities out in case of an emergency. Not only that, but I simply liked having the room to spare. Added to that, I didn’t know a soul who carried anything less than a full fledge satchel. I can’t really remember when I purchased my first crossbody bag, but I do recall how convenient it was as I navigated events where being on-the-move required gear that wouldn’t hold you down.

I was forever changed.

Year after year, I find there is simplicity and a sense of peace in a small, tidy handbag. It’s a no-fuss way of editing yourself and I can’t imagine any other way.

I picked up this Antonio Melani crossbody earlier this year and can’t quite put it down. This leather croc was just the type of handbag I was searching for online – sophisticated, sleek, and compact enough to include the necessities.

What’s in my bag?

MINI – MAKEUP CASE by Gianni Chiarini Design

I found this gem at TJ Maxx on clearance for $10! The quality is insane. I knew when I spotted it that this would be the perfect piece to fit into my purse. After years, of ruining many purses (like spilling nail polish in a Brahmin *gasp*), I came to the conclusion that I needed to preserve the inside of my purse. What better way to do so than to purchase a cosmetic bag or purse liner to put all those messy items in. You know – lipsticks, ink pens, travel perfume, hand sanitizer, and the like. What I also love about this case is it not only zips up, but there are three slots to put items in. I use the middle slot for all my cards like the license, rewards cards, and debit cards. The cosmetic bags are super reasonably priced, which means you can switch them up when they become worn out. The inside of your actual purse will still be intact. Genius.

HAND SANITIZER

Hi, I’m Erica and I am a germaphobe. Seriously, if I was a character, I’d probably be the daughter of Monk from the television series. I use sanitizer religiously and wash my hands more times than the average person. Hand sanitizer is a must and if you don’t think so, read a few interesting articles on the dangers of germs and how many we come into contact with daily. If nothing else, do me a favor and sanitize your cellphone, doorknobs, and computers. Thank me later.

TISSUE

I buy a few packages of travel sized tissue in bulk to keep a pack in my purse. The need to sneeze, or wipe down a surface comes around pretty often and I’ve lost count of the many times having tissue in my purse was a savior. I think we’d all agree that we find ourselves in some sticky situations at times, and the moment you ask someone, “Do you have any tissue or paper towel?” is the very moment that none is available.

EARPHONES

In the past year, I’ve been using my lunch break to listen to podcasts or watch some of my YouTube favs. In order to avoid disrupting others around me, I’d pop in my earphones to listen in. I also love taking these babies to the gym with me. The ones I currently use are pretty basic, but I’m looking to upgrade because I value a solid listening experience.

NOTEPAD & PEN

As a writer and planner nerd, I never know when inspiration will strike and I like to be ready. On those days when I randomly need to stop and grocery shop, my notepad comes in handy. I can jot down a list of items to buy, remove the sheet, and be on my merry way. This is also great when I have impromptu meetings or sit in on workshops. Sometimes, you don’t feel up to carrying around large notebooks or planers. This notepad is compact enough to fit neatly within my purse without weighing a ton. 

 

ALL THE THINGS

(other items in my bag)

Purse Charm (French Bulldog Puff) – Spotted this at Target and had to have it

Keys – I never remove this from my purse since I have a touch to start vehicle

Lip Gloss – Victoria’s Secret lip gloss is my fav and always will be

Phone Case – I’m obsessed with a beautiful Moto Z phone case (Amazon) – super reliable and chic

Nail Polish – There’s nothing worse than chipped nails. This is my signature color

Receipts – the bane of my existence and quite self-explanatory

Lip Stick – My favs at the moment are from Nicka K New York

IMAN Compact – An on-the-go way to blot and check out your makeup

Sunnies by Jessica Simpson – I’m into white sunnies right now

 

So ladies, are there any other items that I’m missing? I’d love to know what’s in your bag that you absolutely must carry with you at all times. Are there any rules you have to keep your purse in top shape?