What's in a Bag?

Talk about baggage?! Most ladies carry way too much with them on a daily basis. Today, we're going to look into what you need, what you don't and how to "Pack a Purse". 

First, a distinction should be made between your daily purse, weekend errand purse and going-out purse. 

The Daily Purse

The daily purse should be the biggest bag that you are OK to carry every day. Depending on your occupation or day-to-day activities the style of the bag is up to you. One editor needs to carry a lap-top so her bag is large enough to accommodate her computer. Another editor is in grad school so her bag has to haul books and notebooks on a daily basis. 

Function over fashion for your Daily Purse! 

Contents of the Daily Purse (as pictured above):
    1. Card Wallet - every lady should have one and it should hold your ID, Credit / Debit Card, Transit Pass, Grocery Store Club Cards and some cash
   2. Work badge, keys, business cards and pens
   3. Small wallets / pouches for further organization - one should hold "vital" info like insurance, AAA membership card, back-up credit card(s)
   4. Sunnies (one pair is necessary, two pair is being prepared anything over three pair is vanity)
   5. Make-up / lip treatments
   6. Safety First kit - bandaids, extra contacts, eye drops, meds and lady time supplies
   7. Hair accessories, hand lotion / cuticle treatment and spare jewelry
   8. The odds and ends - clean out the "bottom" of your bag every weekend to cut down on clutter! If you didn't remember it was in your purse during the previous week, you don't need it.
   9. Kindle / iPad / iPod / Phone / charger(s) - keep em in a pouch to help with organization

The Errand Purse

The errand purse is a stripped down version of the daily purse. Depending on your game-plan for the day make sure you have what you need. From the list above transfer numbers 1, 2 (minus work badge), 4 and 9. You'll also want to add grocery lists, reusable bags (be eco friendly and all) and your signature nail polish color (you deserve a manicure after the week you've had)!

The Going-Out Purse

The going-out purse is the most essential items for your night on the town. While the style is ultimately up to you and your outfit there are a few key elements to a good going-out purse. The first thing is to make sure it has a zipper or snap closure. If you're having a good night there should be a risk of your purse spilling and a zipper would save the day. Beyond a closure, a handle or wrist strap is helpful. The going out purse contents are pictured above and from the first list transfer numbers 1 and 5 (the bare essentials), your keys, phone and camera.

Many designers make a version of the card wallet above. Pick one based on your budget, what you need to keep in it and your style. Some of our favorites come from Coach, Russell + Hazel and Hobo.

Do you have any Handbag Organization tips of your own? Share them on our Facebook page or tweet them to @ColorMe_Styled using the hashtag #PackAPurse