Back to Basics: How to pack a big punch in a small bag

Last week I talked about going “Back to basics“, not that getting a new Marc Jacobs purse (from Valamode!)  is going basic, but the trouble here is that I am a pack rat. Even when it comes to my purse. I carry everything with me at all times. Bandaid? Makeup? Hair clip? Purell? Yes, yes, yes! The question is, do I need it all?

My son Victor is 3.5 years old, which is why I am now embracing the SMALL PURSE MOVEMENT! Only those who have carried a diaper bag for 2.5 years will understand that a mommy can not in her right mind get away with carrying a small bag, if you’re going out for more than 1 hour with your kid. Victor and I are used to going out on full-day trips, so, being paranoid about forgetting anything, my diaper bag has always been overpacked and ready for any situation! It’s time to let go of the past and learn to pack a lean purse!

Last night, I used my small purse for the first time and packed:

  • cash, debit card, M/C and ID
  • compact mirror and lipstick
  • phone
  • gum
  • business cards

It’s truly all I needed for a night out! Not sure I could use this for a day trip with Victor though, but it’s a start!

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Now for the juicy part. I bet you’re asking what the heck is Valamode? Well my friends, Valamode is Ottawa’s top authentic luxury online consignment shop! My friend Dia is the powerhouse behind this amazing local business. She scours the closets of fashionistas all over Canada and the US and makes your designer wishes come true! She is known as the luxury matchmaker. If you are on the hunt for a specific designer bag, watch, bangle, belt or shoes, she will find it for you! I always say, everyone needs a Dia in their life. On that note, if you’re looking to sell your designer goods, she can help you there too!

Dia runs her store online and in person, and typically hosts pop-ups around the city throughout the year. I always keep an eye out on her website or send her a note if I am looking for something in particular (a.k.a the small purse!) But here’s the thing, her stuff sells quickly, and she can barely keep up with postings on her site. So, my suggestion is if you like something, don’t sit on it, because it will sell.

Burberry purse Valamode

I was dragging my feet on a tiny Burberry bag, and it sold in less than a week. But its okay, because something else will come around, and it did!

I got so many compliments on this little baby last night, and I can’t wait to welcome it into my closet!

#redcarpet look for International Humanitarian Fashion Week with Unesco @unesco @ihfashionweek

A photo posted by Ottawa • Canadian Blogger (@chantsy) on


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