Remember the iconic scene in Mary Poppins where she began to pull ridiculously large items from her carpet bag? (I'm referring to the 1964 Julie Andrews version because I can't bring myself to watch the remake yet.) The mystifying magic of that moment transcended the screen and my tiny self called out, "Hey, my Mom has a bag like that too!"
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Ever so fortunately, I grew up with an extremely thoughtful Mother who could foresee nearly every potential situation that we could possibly encounter. Skinned knee? She had ointment and bandages. Hangry? Eat these crackers. Feeling a chill? Use this scarf. Got the sniffles? Take a Kleenex. Hangnail? Let me find the clippers and nail file. Bad breath? Here's a peppermint.
Depending on our ages at the time, one might find anything from diapers or t-shirts to mouth guards, Goldfish crackers, and even an occasional softball glove lurking inside. Now in actuality, Mom's version was more of an oversized hobo bag or tote really. Definitely sturdy but asthetically pleasing, this enchanted grab bag was a warm beige color that went with everything she wore. Shouldering this weight around parks, stores, airports, and events had to be the equivalent of hiking the Appalachian Trail. Yet, she did it without complaint, always with poise, understanding, and patience. As all great, selfless, and loving Mothers do.
Everyday I'm thankful for my Mom and all the little/big things she taught me, not to mention what she offered and gifted everyone around us. Nowadays, my friends and family look to me for such items too because they know how I like to be prepared. Not only do these accommodating efforts save time and money but it's a gesture of love and respect to be able to provide a little assistance along the way. We should all employ more consideration and thoughtfulness each and every day.
Now a little history lesson...
While our modern day purse market is geared toward and associated with women, the rich history of this accessory dates back thousands of years with the first known use in Ancient Egypt where hieroglyphics depicted males with pouches tied around their waists. Since time immemorial, both men and women used bags of some sort to carry their belongings. In medieval Europe, purses were often attached to belts and were utilized primarily by men to carry coins. During the Renaissance, purses became more elaborate and were adorned with jewels and embroidery. Reticules (what a neat term) were small drawstring bags used by Victorian women to hold their necessary objects. In the 18th and 19th centuries, purses became an essential fashion accessory for women, evolving into the handbags we know today. Throughout history, purses have reflected societal norms, cultural trends, advancements in craftsmanship and design.
Who doesn't love a fashion accessory?
Coming in all shapes, sizes, colors and textures, you can easily complement any outfit and express personal style, which enhances our overall appearance. Not only a convenient way to carry our treasures, a satchel provides organization by keeping belongings together and easily accessible, preventing them from getting lost or scattered. The security offered in keeping valuables safe and close to your person is certainly comforting, especially in crowded public places.
What's in my bag, you ask?
Depending on your preferences and day to day activities, purse essentials typically include items like wallet, keys, phone, lip balm, hand sanitizer, tissues, pen/paper, glasses, and any medications you might require. Here are some bag necessities that have brought me personal joy and efficiency...
1. By far, the best purse I've purchased over the last few years in terms of versatility is this Travelon Messenger Bag. Comfy, adjustable length, RFID blocking, slash-resistant, and very spacious for its size.
2. Not just pleasant to look at, this RFID blocking, pocket sized Wallet is an awesome option for storing money, cards, and identification.
3. Phone Case: For protecting your communication and emergency device, this leather covered card slot holder is my favorite right now because I can easily fit my ID and a credit card covertly inside. It's not bulky in my pocket and comes in multiple colors, rose gold being my preference currently.
4. Antibacterial hand wipes for obvious reasons in this day and age. 🦠
5. Lately, my preferred eye protection wear is from Goodr. Their sunglasses are lightweight, stylish, affordable, great for sports/activities and they don't get caught in my hair!
6. For quick makeup or hair checks I found this rechargeable portable Lighted Compact Mirror and it is bright! I use it all the time! Excellent magnification and smooth design make it great for travel too! I even bought many more as Christmas gifts!
7. Speaking of gifts, here's another item that I sent to friends and family! ☺️🎁 I'm obsessed with this precious lil portable Clutch charger to keep your phone or other devices powered up when you’re out and about!
8. A travel size First Aid Kit is always good to have around and you can't go wrong with Johnson & Johnson products. I keep one in each vehicle and my bag at all times.
9. Will you look at how cute this Travel Mini Umbrella and tiny case are?!🤗☂️
10. Reusable Shopping Bag: These totes are perfect for groceries or a heavy load and the best part is they fold into a tiny pocket size square so they take up no space!
11. One must stay hydrated with this Takeya water bottle, it's so easy to clean and sleek! I much prefer this size instead of those other bulky brands that make you feel like you're lifting weights with each sip lol.
12. Here is the best Weekender Bag I've found! It comes in multiple colors with this cute toiletry bag, adjustable shoulder strap, water resistant pocket, and the greatest attribute is the trolley sleeve to slide over your luggage handle for easy travel! Really affordable too!
Ultimately, one should just take a moment to consider your everyday needs when selecting items to carry in your purse, and adjust accordingly. Depending on the size and design, your carryall can do just that and accommodate a variety necessities including larger items like tablets or small laptops. On that note, here's a few other thoughts on what you may also want to add:
Pens and a small notebook for jotting down thoughts or important information.
Written Emergency Contacts in case you lose your phone.
Mints and/or gum.
Small travel size perfume or fragrance (Travel size deodorant couldn't hurt either).
Personal hygiene products such as face wipes, toothbrush, and tampons/pads hidden in a tiny bag.
Sewing kit if you're so inclined.
Hair ties/clips/brush/comb for managing hair on windy days or unexpected situations.
Snacks like granola bars or nuts, for a quick energy boost.
*Pro tip: Add tweezers to your bag or at least your car console for random plucking needs that tend to be made more visible in harsh daylight.😉
Without a doubt, our beloved purses/handbags/totes serve as a practical and stylish accessory that meets both functional and aesthetic needs while (perhaps most importantly) holding our memories too. Hopefully this list helps you curate your own personal bag of tricks!
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