I do understand that some girls feel the need to carry large bags. I was actually one of them in the past which for me was a total a curse - digging in what seemed to be a bottomless tote, trying to find keys while going through receipts, notepads and headphones, for example. I felt like I needed to be carrying everything with me; make up bag, books, notepads...Things that I have used maybe twice when on the go in my whole adulthood life!
I’ve spent a good few years on a quest to find a perfect handbag that will not only fit all my “stuff” but also look good. I have always been very conscious about my expenditure and trying to invest in pieces that would last me for a longer period of time. I like handbags that are chic, stylish but also timeless and versatile. I’m not a girl that has a dozen of handbags (or more) and wear different ones for different occasions. I needed one bag that does it all. Also, what I have come to understand is that I want my bag to be better organised and more sensibly stocked. FERRON Crossbody Bag ticks off all the boxes for me! And I would encourage you to have a look at the bag capacity and dimensions. Who knows, this might be your best friend too?
Having said that, I do appreciate that every woman is different, which means every handbag (or crossbody or clutch or rucksack or tote) is different too. You need to remember that what you put in your handbag is very unique to you and should serve no one else but you. I know there are a lot of guides or “handbag essentials list for every woman” cheat sheets, and those are always interesting and fun to read but ultimately it’s up to you what you’ll keep in your handbag. You need to assess your day to day routine and determine what things you need and use the most when on the go.
My piece of advice- look for bags with detachable straps, with slots for cards or pockets. This will allow you to wear it with a casual outfit or dress it up easily, and stay organised at all times! And once you’ve found THE ONE that will hold your day-to-day essentials, care for it and treasure. Your life has just got got easier! :)
The handbag essentials that I listed below are my handbag essentials. These are things that I carry with me most of the times, that work for me and suits my lifestyle. I live in a large town in the UK, I drive, I’m in my early 30s, I’m self employed and working from home, I attend a lot of meetings locally as well as in London (30mins train ride), I don’t have kids, I’m very social, don’t wear much makeup (eyeliner, mascara, lip balm, occasionally like to wear my red lippy), I’ve a head full of curls and don’t straighten it nor I brush it (curly hair girls will probably get the idea). I’m a very organised person, using my phone for pretty much everything that goes beyond calls and sending messages, i.e. scheduling meetings, social media, emails, listening to music, research, etc . These are factors that definitely affect my handbag content.
OK, this was a very lengthy introduction but I just wanted to make sure I cover things that are imperative here. So if you’re kinda match the above personal description and looking for some inspiration when it comes to what to keep in your handbag, read on for a list of the absolute essentials. Here are the things I carry in my handbag, the order is not accidental :):
1. A good snack
Hungry Ania is a h-angry Ania. I’m thinking a packet of mixed nuts and dried fruit, Deliciously Ella Cacao and Almond Oat Bar, dark chocolate - basically anything tasty that keeps well and is easy to eat on-the-go.
2. Pack of tissues
For winter colds, for someone in the lift (US > elevator) with a bad case of the sniffles, coffee spills, badly stocked toilet cubicles, showing kindness to strangers...the list goes on and on!
3. Foldaway carrier bag
For me, it’s an absolute handbag essential and a must- have! Don’t think I need to provide reasons for carrying one?
4. Dental floss
Because you know- no one wants to see what you had for your lunch.
5. Business cards
I attend a lot of meetings so have my cards handy. You never know who you bump into, it might be FERRON’s first investor, right? :)
6. Lip Balm and Hand lotion
This is not only a winter thing for me. I think no woman should be without a good lip balm and a tube of all-over moisturiser. And if you want to feel extra spruced up and ready for after work outings, invest in a scented one!
7. Feminine products
Because YOU NEVER KNOW. Having a tampon, pad and pantyliner in your handbag means you’ll be ready for any kind of period and well prepared for co-workers' or friends' “surprises”.
8. Old school Polos
Or gum. Similarly to dental floss, because no one likes to smell what you had for lunch. Oh, and those morning coffee breaths!
9. Hair ties and bobby pins
Oh, these have proved to be be a godsend on so many occasions! Not only for my hair misbehaves but also those dreadful shirt button or skirt zipper oopsies.
10. Keys
Got the keys? Well, I do keep them in my handbag.
11. Cash
I know it's a world of contactless cards and crypto currency but they're still places that accept cash only or situations you might need some good old cash. I try to have a note in a zip-up pocket and I’m not afraid to use it when passing by a sweet and candy cart!
And this is it. This is my fully stocked handbag. Thanks to all the compartments and pockets my handbag is perfectly organised and there's still room for some extra bits and bobs.
What do you think about the above? Are you a tiny purse person or a big bag person? What books are you reading right now? Let me know in the comments section below. Looking forward to hearing from you.
