The Pursentials

The 2025 version of "What's In My Purse?"

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I quite literally can never keep track of my belongings. I'm a busy person and tend to switch between bags a lot. One day I aim to have it down to a science, because as they say, work smarter, not harder, right? But over time, I have worked out a short list of what I try to carry with me at all times (in order of how important it is that I bring it). When it comes to any bag, there is an art in how to make the most of what little space you often have. Here's what I consider to be my purse essentials, or "pursentials", that I try to squeeze into each and every bag:

1. Phone-Keys-Wallet

This is less of a packing item and more of a mantra that I've programmed into my brain as a hack. Every time I walk out the door, you'll hear me say "phone-keys-wallet" out loud as a reminder to check for those three, no matter the destination.

2. Sunglasses

This might not be as high on the list for everyone as it is for me, but if I'm going out and about in the daytime, I struggle without them, and I'd rather not squint. Plus, there's something so satisfying about bopping around town with sunnies on and a good playlist in your headphones.

3. Headphones

Speaking of headphones, I do prefer to carry a set with me when I'm leaving the house for longer periods of time, whether I'm walking or taking public transit. Music can reset my whole mood if I'm in need of a pep-up.

4. A Lip Product

Whether that be a balm, liner, gloss, or stick, I feel like I keep some combination of lip products stocked in each of my purses so I don't have to worry about forgetting it - which I often do.

5. Mints/Gum

I think some version of gum or breath freshener is an undervalued purse find. I try to have a pack per purse, because being the friend who always has a spare piece of gum to offer is a great feeling.

6. Hand Sanitizer

Lately I've found myself trying to squeeze this into most bags on the way out the door - always comes in handy and it's way easier to have it and not need it than need it and be missing it.

7. Hair Accessory

It feels like hair ties occupy every single space in my life, so it's no wonder I'd find them in

every purse, but this is another necessity I cannot leave the house without. I have such heavy hair, so, especially in hot weather, I absolutely MUST have a method of getting my hair off my neck on hand at all times.

8. Perfume

I like to carry a rollerball perfume in a bag when going out, especially at night, for the necessary refreshes throughout the evening. Reapplying is key if you want to always be smelling incredible at the function.

9. Portable Charger

My final holy grail item if I'm leaving the house for an extended period of time: my portable charger. I carry it nearly everywhere because it is always so helpful to have - both for me and for my friends. My key is having a multi-plug cord so anyone can use it in a pinch - and yes, I do identify as the mom friend.

Keep all of these items easily accessible when you're on the way out the door, or if it makes more sense for you, keep some of them in each bag all the time! Add your purse contents to the list of things you simplify or automate so you don't have to think twice about it.

What is included in your pursentials?

xo,

anna

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