Ever looked at someone and wondered, “What’s in her bag?”? Get ready to take a sneak peek into the world of two practical yet stylish ladies (us!). Forget the clichés; we’re diving deep into the real deal of what makes our handbags so indispensable. Check out what’s in my bag!
Purses as more than an accessory—it’s a lifeline. From that trusty lipstick to those oh-so-important reading glasses, it’s all in there. We’re diving into everyday bag essentials and must have items in your purse. Think pocket pharmacy saviors (hello, TUMS!), a little notebook to fill with wisdom, and of course, a dash of practical magic, lipstick – of course! One of us is a “just the essentials” girlie and the other is more of a Mary Poppins. Which one are you?
Keep reading to uncover the treasures that make up the perfect purse for navigating the adventures of life over 50.
Note: You loved this post in 2024, so we’ve updated it for 2025 with all new links and fresh ideas!
Megan’s “Mary Poppins” Must-Have Purse
I’m a semi reformed Mary Poppins! This year I’m trying to lighten my load and one of the ways I’m doing that is by carrying less in my purse. However, I love a big tote style bag and this kelly green Longchamp is perfect. Not only is it water resistant, the shoulder straps easily fit over my bulkiest coat AND it’s roomy enough that I can stash my hat, gloves and water bottle in it. The bright green is giving me “spring is coming soon” vibes, without being too pastel spring-y. This Longchamp bag was on our Holiday Gift Guide for Her (which is an awesome reference for a gift for any occasion).
EVERYTHING IN MY BAG:
- Glasses– I have readers stashed EVERYWHERE, if you forgot yours- I got you. These Tom Ford sunnies were a Christmas gift and I love them. So chic.
- Zip Top Pouch – This leopard pouch contains all my loose essentials, love a pop of leo even in our everyday bags.
- Card Case/Wallet – One of the ways I’ve downsized from my Mary Poppins tendencies is by using the Clare V cardholder instead of a billfold. She holds just the essentials and you know what – that’s all I need.
- Keys-The needlepoint key chain with a nod to my alma matter makes me smile everyday.
- Pocket Pharmacy – The pocket pharmacy has come in VERY HANDY lately. From Tums to Advil, you’ll be glad you have it if/when you need it.
- Beauty Items – True story; one day Christa asked me how many lipsticks were in my purse at that moment and the answer was 8. Eeek, am a lipstick hoarder? Usually I have 2, a gloss and a lipstick. My new addiction is this Phlur body spray as perfume. Less over powering and much less expensive.
- Reusable Grocery Bag – I have bags in my bags. This little guy rolls up into a tiny ball and hangs out in my purse for when I need it.
- Random Essentials – As a true Mary Poppins I do have a *small* list of random purse essentials that you will find in my bag at any given time. Purell, a pen and notepad and CHEAP bluetooth ear buds (because I lose them!).
Shop Megan’s Bag
More Bags That Megan Likes
Christa’s “Minimalist” Must-Have Purse
The bag I’m carrying right now isn’t my usual crossbody. Lately, I’ve been feeling like my smaller bags just weren’t cutting it for everyday use, so I decided to bring out an old favorite from my closet—this classic Frances Valentine hobo style bag. It’s roomy without being overwhelming. Since my bag is an older style, I can’t link the exact one, but I found a similar option/size that I think you’ll love from Michael Kors. (I also found my FV bag is this beautiful pink suede.) If you’re shopping online for a bag, always check the measurements–for reference mine measures about 8.5” H x 11” L x 4.75” W, not too big for this minimalist girlie.
With all that said, I’m not completely giving up my crossbody ways! I still prefer to keep my essentials light and uncluttered (my must-have list is definitely shorter than Megan’s!).
Once spring and summer roll around, I’ll likely switch back to a crossbody. I have so many in different colors, and it’s always fun to coordinate with my dresses. Keeping my bag contents minimal makes it super easy to swap styles without the hassle. If you’re looking for an affordable crossbody option, Michael Kors has a great selection of stylish bags under $100 in a variety of colors, and I linked one below for you! Clearly I am a fan!
EVERYTHING IN MY BAG:
- Kate Spade card case wallet
- lipstick
- readers and eyeglass case
- sunglasses
- lotion and hand sanitizer
- clear zip pouch to stay organized – includes a few pens, hair ties, hair clips
- “emergency” protein bar
- car key
- phone with magsafe pop socket
Shop Christa’s Bag
More Bags That Christa Likes
Best Organizers & Storage Solutions
We could talk about purses all day. While you’re still reading, take a peek at some of our favorite things to help keep our purses organized in our closet, and keep our purse contents organized and easy to find.
Shop Christa’s Picks for Purse Organization
Shop Megan’s Picks for Purse Organization
Looking for more purse posts? Check out our original What’s in My Bag post. Our styles definitely have stayed consistent (perhaps timeless!).
Looking for more bags? We’ve also shared The 6 Travel Bags That Work Wherever You’re Going.
What’s in your bag? Share your must-have items in the comments!
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I knew without looking at the label which contents were Megan’s. #motherknows Love the quote!
My friends are big fans of your blog. The other night I said something about Megan and her friend she writes the blog with and Irene said, “Oh, that’s Christa!”
Glad you’re enjoying the blog!