The Unofficial Rules of What’s in Your Handbag with Charlotte O’Hare
I firmly believe you can tell a great deal about a person by the contents of their handbag. Mine isn’t particularly tidy, but it is organised.
There’s a difference. The secret? Pouches. Everything has its place. One for beauty, one for stationery and another for all those little essentials that somehow multiply throughout the week.
A beautiful pen is non negotiable. You never know when inspiration will strike, and I always carry a notebook usually one I’ve picked up from the latest hotel I’ve stayed in. They’re perfect for jotting down ideas, lists and observations. Hand sanitiser is another must. I’m devoted to the Aesop one, which somehow makes a practical necessity feel rather luxurious. There will always be SPF, a hydration sachet and a bottle of water. I’m unapologetically a water snob. A spare pair of glasses is essential too. I don’t just see them as practical they’re my face jewellery. Just as I’d never leave the house without earrings, I like having another pair of glasses to change my look in an instant.
I’m hopeless at remembering a phone charger, but my headphones never leave my bag. Even when I’m not listening to anything, they’re the perfect universal signal that says, “I’m unavailable.” There’s usually a snack tucked away too.
The collagen balls from Marks & Spencer are a favourite and have rescued many a busy afternoon. And then there’s the wildcard. Depending on the day, you might even find a chilled can of margarita from Waitrose. Some people carry an umbrella for emergencies. I carry cocktails!
A handbag isn’t simply somewhere to keep your keys. It’s a portable survival kit, a collection of little luxuries and, if you’re anything like me, a rather accurate reflection of who you are.
Read more about Charlotte here
