Let’s face it, it’s been a while since people were expected to function normally in public for any extended period. If you’ve had to dust off your handbag after a year of inaction, or you’ve reverted to throwing everything but the kitchen sink into a backpack before leaving the house, here’s a timely reminder of how to pack light (and smart) for work or play.

Pencil Eyeliner

Rushed out the door without time to throw on makeup? Your handy eyeliner should always be on hand (... or in the handbag) to save the day. It’s usually best to opt for a pencil-style eyeliner for your handbag, as it’s easier to apply on the go than a liquid or gel. If you find yourself pushed for time on a regular basis, you might even want to consider choosing a lighter shade of eyeliner that matches your brows, giving you double the possibilities from one pencil.

Travel Mascara

While we don’t advocate letting your prized Estee Lauder mascara languish in the depths of your handbag, it’s a great idea to have a travel-sized lash lengthener tucked away for emergencies. The benefit Mini range of mascaras are the perfect size to throw in your bag ahead of any adventuring in the Great Outdoors. So, whether applying on your morning commute or touching up after getting caught without a brolly, you’ll be good to go.

Natural Lipstick

Whether you’re a lipstick diva or more of a gloss gal, no handbag is complete without a natural shade of lip colour. Dot onto your cheeks and blend for an easy blush, then sweep over your lips for flawless coverage. The benefit to a natural coloured lipstick over something with more of a wow-factor is that it gives you a smooth, even finish that won’t look out of place on a bare face. On hand for when you want a “like you, but better”, polished look, by choosing a shade that’s only fractionally darker than your natural lip colour you can elevate your natural beauty with minimal effort.

A Multitasking Cream

The ultimate do-it-all product, every handbag needs a hardworking tube of multipurpose product. Smooth flyaways, moisturise dry patches, add shine to your lips, soothe stings, these products are the Swiss army knives of beauty. Looking for a cult classic? Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is one of the original multitasking creams beloved by beauty editors everywhere. Looking for a petite alternative? Try Dr. Lipp Original Nipple Balm for Dry Skin, Luscious Lips and Glossy Bits, which uses the natural benefits of lanolin to soothe and protect.

That Signature Scent

It can be difficult to find a perfume with all-day staying power, particularly in the warmer months. Lighter fragrances designed for summer often don’t have the weight needed to last a full day of wear, but that doesn’t mean you have to go without. A must for every handbag, perfume atomisers come in a wide range of colours, so you can find your perfect match. Simply place your atomiser on the nozzle peg of your perfume and pump to fill it up. Voila, your favourite fragrance in miniature form, ready for refreshing on the go.

Bonus Items

Although infinitely less exciting than your favourite lippy, there are a few extra bits and pieces no handbag is complete without. Tissues, for unexpected tears; cash, for emergencies; hand sanitizer, to keep you safe; and gum or mints, to keep you minty fresh.

Got your essentials packed? You’re good to go - get out there and rock it.