It seems like I'm living out of my work bag these days - the handbags have been traded in for a big old tote stocked with essentials for whatever the day may throw my way. Today the good old work bag and I packed up and headed to Atlanta for some meetings, which had me thinking about what my must haves are for a well stocked business bag:
1. Kate Spade Tote - I have a similar tote that I snatched up during one of Kate Spade's amazing online sales - it's a great size for a clunky work laptop but looks stylish so you don't mind lugging it around everywhere
2. Blueberry Crisp Clif Bar - You never know when you'll need an emergency snack! I've been hooked on Clif Bars and the blueberry is my fave
3. Moleskine Notebook - Having a little notebook handy is essential for jotting down a big idea (or the address for happy hour)
4. c/o EOS Lip Balm - This funky little pod packs a ton of moisture and fruity flavor - perfect size to throw in your bag & not worry about it getting lost
5. Aladdin Water Bottle - Always great to have a water bottle with ya to take advantage of the good old office water cooler. This one is BPA free and dishwasher safe with measurement marks down the side to help you keep track of getting those 8 glasses in each day
6. Coach Wristlet - I always stash a wristlet in my work bag to make it easier to transition from work to play. I'm lusting after this Coach one because of the amazing color and tassel detail
7. Contigo Autoseal Coffee Mug - This is one amazing coffee mug - it's totally leak proof! Perfect for filling up and throwing a cup of coffee in your bag without worries
8. bareMinerals Pressed Mineral Veil - Let's face it, touch ups are necessary some days. The pressed powder version of bareMineral's famous Mineral Veil is a lifesaver for looking fresh with a lighter coverage than traditional pressed powder
9. c/o EOS Hand Lotion - Love the compact size, light scent and moisture that this hand lotion provides, without leaving your hands greasy
10. NARS Heat Wave - Need an extra boost of confidence before a big meeting? This will add some extra oomph to your look and also makes the perfect item to make your 9-5 style ready for happy hour
11. Friction Block Stick - A lifesaver! Some days I pass this little magic stick around the office to save my fellow ladies from limping around with the dreaded blisters
12. Paper Mate InkJoy Pens - Somehow Paper Mate has created a ballpoint/gel hybrid. Don't ask me how but these are the best - a great range of colors that helps keep your notes organized
13. Lucky Brand Emmie Flats - Heels don't always treat your feet right and some days require more walking than you had predicted. Good flats are hard to find and these do the trick while still being light enough to toss in your bag
I love those flats and a notebook is definitely always a good thing. When I go somewhere, it's on my bike, so I just carry some basics like my wallet, Android, a bottle of water or energy juice, and usually old receipts and loose change, haha. I also carry back whatever I buy!
ReplyDeleteYou never know when inspiration will strike! My notebook always ends up filled with random to do lists & blog post ideas. Jealous you ride your bike everywhere! I bought a bike but I'm too scared to ride it in the city :(
DeleteLove this! I'm currently lusting after the Coach carry all, and also one of those wristlets. I love the colours! I also purchased a monster bag from a Kate Spade sale, and I lug it around with everything inside. I have like 3 notebooks and I'm constantly jotting down lists of things to do!
ReplyDeleteI've been trying to find a hand cream that doesn't make me sneeze, I might have to try the eOS one!
Right?! The Legacy collection is just so perfect - the colors and the simple leather with those tassel details, LOVE IT. Try the eos one and let me know what you think! I'm always trying new hand lotions and it's harder than you'd think to find a good one.
DeleteI've owned the Aladdin water bottle for 3 years and I still love it. It use to seal 100% but it's probably more like 80% now. :) Good pick!
ReplyDeletePretty impressive! I love the little flip top lid with the lip on it - makes it much easier to drink from than a typical wide mouth water bottle.
DeleteI've owned the Aladdin water bottle for 3 years now. Love it! Good pick
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking I need to get a bigger bag for work. I'm literally living out of mine, too! Especially if I head to the gym in the morning. I literally look like I'm carrying around my life with me. Bandaids are key. I always forget to back those!
ReplyDelete-Alyssa
The Glossy Life
Oh good one! I either end up with a ton of bandaids in my bag or NONE - never a normal amount!
DeleteI'm stopping over from Sydney's blog! I've really wanted to try the EOS lip balm but it's taking me so long and I don't even know why. And that's a great tote and wallet. Love these picks here!
ReplyDeleteHi Kelly, welcome!! The EOS lip balm is definitely worth a try - I'm going to grab the mint one next time I see it in stores. Thanks for the comment & visit!
DeleteThat friction block is one of my very favorite things in the whole wide world! It doesn't surprise me one little bit that a resourceful woman like you has some tucked away in her bag o' tricks.
ReplyDeleteI have no idea what exactly that little stick does but it's pretty magical.
DeleteGreat post!! I am currently in a search for a tote that is professional-looking. I'll let you know if I find anything. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteLook at Kate Spade's totes or some diaper bags (my first work bag was a Coach diaper bag outlet find!)
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