What’s in my bag? Don’t you love those old Glamour magazine articles showing us inside a celebrity’s purse? Today on the blog we’re talking all things purse related, including what we look for when buying a new purse and what we carry in them. Purses are definitely one of our favorite fashion topics, and today we’re giving you both of our style viewpoints. You can also learn more about our style in our first post.
Christa’s Purse Picks
My favorite accessory is a new purse (maybe that’s because they always fit and I don’t have to try them on!). I like to have a slightly larger everyday purse for when I’m out because I can easily stash items like receipts, keys, sunglasses or my mask while I’m on the go. In recent years I discovered Frances Valentine and that has remained my everyday shoulder bag ever since (different colors for different seasons of course – don’t tell my husband I have three of them!). (Style tip: My bag is no longer available, but you can probably find it on resale sites like Poshmark. I have the “June” style and it’s a medium size.)
A GOOD CROSSBODY BAG WORKS FOR SOME MANY OCCASIONS
I also like to keep a cute cross body bag or two (or six!!) in rotation for times when I don’t need as much room. Crossbodies are perfect for travel, out to dinner, a concert, girls night. My go to brands for crossbody bags are Tory Burch, Coach, Rebecca Minkoff and Michael Kors. I like these brands because no matter how old the purses are, they never seem to go out of style. Fun fact: Coach was one of my first purse splurges when I was working (early 90’s!!!) and they still sell that same classic style!
WHAT’S IN MY BAG
I will admit that my purse contents are quite boring! I’ve learned to keep it organized because it makes switching purses for different occasions a breeze. I love the clear bags by Truffle (look for the clarity clutches on their site) for organizing smaller items like lotions, face masks, hair ties and lipstick. With the clear bags I’m not digging to the bottom of the purse to find a random hair tie or risk a leaky pen ruining the lining. My wallet is also very minimal. I just use a simple card case with a few essential credit cards and ID/insurance cards (similar card case here).
Christa’s Links
- Shelf Dividers
- Frances Valentine
- Tory Burch
- Coach
- Rebecca Minkoff
- Michael Kors
- Truffle organizers
- Similar card case
Megan’s Purse Picks
When I’m buying a bag I look for leather (they last longer), small pockets inside for organizing items like my phone or reading glasses and a crossbody strap (fit tip: I prefer a longer crossbody strap and 22-24” is usually a good length for me at 5’1”).
DON’T FORGET TO CHECK PLACES LIKE NORDSTROM RACK FOR QUALITY BAGS
I tend to change my purse out seasonally. Right now I’m using this Clare V. bag that I scored from Nordstrom Rack. I first spotted it during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and didn’t pull the trigger so I was super excited to see it show up at the Rack. It’s a big tote, but I lug my life around so it works for me. I added a bag strap from Amazon. The bag straps are a game changer for me, they elevate the look of any bag you’ve got and at under $15 it’s a win!
I needed a new crossbody for a recent trip and picked up this one from Madewell. It holds my wallet, sunglasses, phone, lipstick… just the essentials. Of course I switched out the strap for one of my Amazon straps and voila – it’s perfect! Great for travel or an everyday minimalist.
WHAT’S IN MY BAG
As cute as the outside of my purses are the inside is another story. I tend to carry everything I think I’ll ever need and then more. Today I’ve got a magazine, my iPad, wallet, notebook and pen, glasses and more glasses and my Baggu (reusable shopping bag) for the stores that charge for bags. I’m going to treat myself to some of Christa’s Truffle cases and try to tame the insanity. However, if you ever need a small sewing kit, a pen and paper, a pair (or three) of readers, a hair tie or a bandaid – I’ve got you covered.
When choosing my next bag I usually get inspired by something I see on Pinterest or on my friend’s arm. I always go for leather or canvas – they elevate your look even if you’re in workout clothes. I also like it to fit over my shoulder to free up my hands. In every closet I think you need a good crossbody for travel or day trips, sporting events or concerts, a tote for travel and a good leather bag for the season. If you buy quality you can keep it forever.
What’s in your bag? Post your purse on IG and tag us @styleamongfriends.
Note: I had a few requests for purse organizers for a tote style bag. Here is what I use, works great for everyday and travel. It’s soft felt, neutral color and has a million pockets to keep all my stuff organized. Comes in several colors and sizes and is currently on sale for under $20.
Megan’s Links
- Clare V.bag
- bag strap
- Madewell crossbody
- Reusable shopping bag – BAGGU
- Tote organizer
Find more purse inspiration in our What’s in My Bag 2023 post.
We could go on and on! Are you purse obsessed like we are? Tell us about your favorite in the comments or post a pic on Instagram and tag us. Do you switch your purse seasonally or stick with the same trusty bag year round?
Love that you both addressed purses. I have such a hard time finding one that “fits” me. My daughter thinks the purse I have now is too small. Time to shop again.
Mom – maybe try a smaller, lighter wallet! Or go with Megan’s approach of a purse to hold it all!