5.13.2012

The Things We Carry: What's in My Handbag

Every morning on the subway I observe my fellow commuters and wonder what they're carrying in their bags. Some have small purses, while others lug totes and backpacks, and more than a few roll small suitcases behind them. That last group bewilders me; as I fit two meals, gym clothes, sneakers and all of the items below in a tote. I have always been curious to see what other women carry on a daily basis, so I thought I'd share some of the items I never leave home without. The receipts, gum wrappers, spare pennies and lint do exist, they're just camera shy :).



1. Foley + Corinna Mid City Tote in Brushed Gold. Commuting bags should be comfortable over the shoulder or in your hand and have multiple pockets. This does all of the above.
2. Coach Wallet. I love the large change compartment for all of my work coffees and parking meters.
3. Cole Haan Sunglasses. These have a great protective case so they are the pair I travel with.
4. Gum.  I'm loving STRIDE's Whitemint right now, the flavor lasts f-o-r-e-v-e-r.
5. Tissues - It's allergy season, enough said.
6. Book or Kindle.  You will rarely find me without something to read.  I'm working through a stack of actual books right now, but the Kindle is more commuter friendly.  The 19th Wife was a long, yet interesting read if you're in the market for a new book.
7.  Work badges and Metro card on my cool dorktastic lanyard.
8.  Iphone and ear buds.  I want to upgrade my case to something fun for summer like this or this.
9. Sweetriot  tin. Little nibs of cacao that are 1-2 calories per piece. The perfect nibble when you crave  chocolate but don't want vending machine guilt.
10. Wisps toothbrushes. Great post-lunch and pre-meeting, compact yet effective.
11. Mirror.  My pretty one is amiss. :(
12. Lipstick/balm/gloss. I always carry multiple lip products. The lipstick is NARS Niagara, a pinky-coral, perfect for spring. The gloss is Covergirl Natureluxe Gloss Balm in coral; bright, natural and moisturizing. The balm is EOS summer fruit.  I'm mildly obsessed, it is smooth, smells good and comes in a fun sphere.
13. Oil Absorbing Sheets. These ones specifically were a gift from Japan but oil absorbing sheets are a must in D.C. with our crazy humidity.
14. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion. Nourishing without feeling greasy, fragrance-free so no perfume competition and it lasts for hours.
15. Goody Ouchless Hair Elastic and bobby pins.
16. Paperblank notepad and pen. Making to-do lists might as well be a hobby of mine. I love making them on the subway in this pretty little pad.

So what group do you fall into, purse, tote/backpack, roller bag? I would love to know what you carry. 

8 comments:

Unknown said...

I'm nosy so I love seeing what's in people's purses! I can't believe you also squeeze meals and gym clothes in your purse- you're a good packer! I love that you also say 'dorktastic' and I too love making lists!

Marilia and Cristina Maz said...

I though that I was looking my bag!
I am currying almost the same -essential - things.
Maybe not the same brands but for sure the same products. :)

Christina xxx
2stylemates.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

hi dear!Thanks for stopping by me I follow you!
Keep in touch,
Faby

Sini said...

I'm low on cosmetics besides lip stuff in my bag, but tend to always have nail stuff for quick repairs - cuticle nippers and a file.

Anonymous said...

I love this behind the scenes view of your purse. I always have a book with me too. I use a medium sized satchel/purse when I go out. It's big enough to hold my planner, has lots of pockets, and it's light enough on my shoulder.

LyddieGal said...

all these things are definitely a must -- and your bag is gorgeous.
I wish I could carry less stuff around but lets face it, that's never gonna happen, haha.
Chic on the Cheap

welldressedmaker said...

I love these kinds of posts, Cara! I did one before, but I'm thinking I need to update it for my spring purses! :) I love that eos lip balm. It's soooooo yummy smelling!

♥ laura
the blog of worldly delights
the shop of worldly delights

Terri said...

These kinds of posts are always fun. And, as an English teacher, I love the title reference. :)
http://stylishsass.blogspot.com

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