The ultimate guide to bag essentials
Even if you don't have to register your "what's in my bag" these are the mini sizes you need to always carry everything you need with you
G-Club
February 19th, 2024
February 19th, 2024
The "what’s in my bag" is a video format that originated on YouTube and went viral during our adolescence. Besides showcasing the latest and classic models from historical fashion houses, it instructed us on how to organize our bags to have everything necessary - and more - in a truly compact space. The format has also been adopted on TikTok and various fashion magazine channels, giving us a glimpse into what celebrities carry in their designer handbags. Regardless of profession, age, or social status, we've noticed that in the end, the contents are always similar and, more importantly, compact and petite.
The evolution of the "what’s in my bag" concept
While for Millennials, "what’s in my bag" was purely entertaining, for Gen-Z, it has taken on a more identity-focused value. This is why the question "what's really in your bag?" is still at the center of attention. In 2014, YouTubers mainly showcased mascara, lip gloss, and powder, but in 2020, Kylie Jenner revealed hand sanitizer from her Kylie Skin line from her Birkin Bag on her YouTube channel. Regardless of the content, it seems that we can't get enough of peeking into a celebrity's bag. At the end of September 2023, even Sophia Richie posted her "what's in my bag" video on TikTok (complete with an EpiPen for added realism), and since then, the format has gained popularity on TikTok. Now, #WhatsInMyBag has over 3 billion views on the app alone.
@sofiarichiegrainge Whats in my bag lots of lip, EpiPen, and of course @ARMRA original sound - Sofia Richie Grainge
In addition, mini-sizes are excellent for waste reduction: their purchase can help minimize waste, especially when trying a product for the first time and unsure if it suits one's needs.
Why prefer mini-sizes
It's obvious to say, but a bag is an extension of ourselves. Why do we prefer one model over another? Probably because it fits our style, the way we want to present ourselves externally, and the identity we want to convey in terms of fashion. What's inside is equally important: if we only carried keys, a wallet, and a phone, we probably wouldn't even need a bag. Instead, it contains everything we love to have with us in case of any situation. "What if I don't go home after work before going out tonight?" or "What if I need to freshen up given today's heat?" These are common questions with predictable answers: our personal treasure chest must be enriched with everything we need to go out feeling calm and prepared. For practicality, it's evident that mini-sizes and compact accessories are the best solution, but they are not only useful for this.
Mini-sizes are apparently more affordable than their full-size counterparts, allowing consumers to try a product without committing to a larger and more expensive version. This can be particularly advantageous when trying new products or brands, and also because make-up has an expiration date just like food.
The ultimate guide for a pro bag
Mini Perfumes
The pioneers of this trend are undoubtedly perfumes with the famous "samples" that we always complain about not receiving from perfumeries, or the classic 30ml size that we go for when unsure about the fragrance. At Sephora, there is now a dedicated corner for roll-on sizes under 10 ml with a wide range of the most famous perfumes. Alternatively, if you have a full-size bottle at home, you only need a travel-sized spray container that acts as a refill from the main packaging through a simple and repeatable dispensing system.
Find Comfort Stop & Soothe Pen - Essential oil roll-on
RARE BEAUTY Find Comfort Stop & Soothe Pen
24€
This new product from Rare Beauty is not exactly a mini-size, as there is only one version, but it's perfect for your bag. It's a light and quickly absorbing aromatherapy gel with a fragrance of peppermint and lavender, designed to help relax. It serves as a product that, thanks to its two scents and their benefits, can help in moments of discomfort and anxiety during the day, perhaps in a crowded subway or at work during a particularly busy day. The gel acts on two sensory fronts: touch and smell.
Foldable Water Bottle
ONTA Folding Water Bottle
14,99€
One of the main problems, especially for smaller bags, is where to put our water. A foldable water bottle may not hold a large volume, but if you know you need to take medication or always need to have some water with you, it could be a solution.
The Rhode "Lip Case"
RHODE Lip Case
35$
Again, this is not strictly a mini-size, but it's a simply ingenious solution to avoid overfilling our bag or clutch and still have our gloss within reach, literally. The most used item when we are out is the phone, useful also for makeup touch-ups thanks to the front camera. Hailey Bieber and her team came up with a fantastic idea, the Rhode Lip Case that allows you to slot in your gloss, taking up little space but solving a big problem, especially in a nightclub. Good news: the Rhode Lip Case costs $35 and will be available for purchase from February 27 at 9 a.m. Pacific time.
Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Mini Skin Set
CHARLOTTE TILBURY Charlotte's Magic Mini Skin Set
45€
A serum and a mini face cream always come in handy! Not only because they will undoubtedly be lighter when traveling, but also because during the day - especially for those who don't wear makeup - you might need a refreshing touch to the skin after being in smog or stale air for many hours.
Hand Sanitizer
MERCI HANDY Hand Cleansing Gel - Zodiac Collection
3,50€
We've tried them all, and they've been a must in our bag for at least four years, always useful and indispensable. A hand sanitizer is a must-have, but if you're tired of the usual strong chemical scent, Merci Handy gels are fragrant and leave your hands dry, non-sticky, in an instant. There's even a collection dedicated to zodiac signs... for packaging enthusiasts, this is for you.
Powder SPF
ISDN Fotoprotector Sunbrush Mineral SPF 30
23,92€
Ready? Did you remember to wear sunscreen under your makeup? No, and now it's too late? Isdin has an excellent product for those who have already applied their full-face makeup but haven't used any SPF or for those who spend many hours outside, perhaps with makeup, and don't know how to reapply sunscreen on the face. Convenient and mini, even with plenty of product, here is the Isdin SPF powder. A photoprotector that offers high UVB/UVA protection with SPF 30, it can be applied over makeup with anti-pollution actives that protect the skin from pollutants.
Setting Spray
URBAN DECAY All Nighter fixing spray
17,45€
Setting spray helps set makeup, preventing it from smudging, fading, or melting during the day. Setting spray can be used during the day to improve makeup, giving the skin a boost of hydration and helping to refresh the appearance of the face if it starts to look tired or worn. There are different versions: from oil-free to glowy and hydrating, and you'll find the mini-size that suits you best.
Hydrocolloid Acne Patches
SKIN FIRST Patches Anti Pimples
12€
Squeezing pimples is not good, no matter how unsightly or annoying it may be; you could risk infections or scars. That's why transparent hydrocolloid patches for these situations exist: they have a discreet appearance and, like those for blisters or herpes, mask discoloration by addressing the problem. For those who are bolder and want to integrate them into makeup, there are cute versions shaped like flowers or stars... in color!
MILK Lip + Cheek Mini - Travel-sized lip and cheek stick
A two-in-one cream blush and lipstick, formulated with moisturizing ingredients, for a uniform shade: one of the best to take with you thanks to its modifiable nature and easily blended with your fingers. With this cream blush or lip balm, you can apply color and blend without even needing a mirror.
Here's our nss G-Club guide to make sure you have everything, remember: don't forget your house keys!