We are work-cationing in Myrtle Beach right now. Can’t do much sunbathing in 50 degree weather but Myrtle Beach does have some great shopping. While shopping this morning, I learned a sad but valuable lesson.
The Cause:

The Results (photographed on our tacky hotel bedspread):


The Lesson: Do not put a Diet Pepsi into your leather purse, even if you think the cap is totally screwed on, because it may not be and you might feel something cold and/or wet and you might look down to see that the entire bottom of your leather purse is soaked. In Diet Pepsi.
My purse and wallet are drying out so soon I’ll know the damage. I guess a good thing is that I don’t use this purse often, so it’s better that it happened to this one rather than one of my favorites, right? I am looking for a bright side here.
Anyone had a similar mishap?
A hot trend in purses in recent years is BIG. Purses are getting larger and heavier and we try to fill up as much of that space as we can. We lug around wallets, laptops, umbrellas, books, diapers, bottled water and various other things. Recent studies have shown that carrying a heavy bag day after day can take its toll on your body. This recent article from Northern News explains why keeping your bag lighter and cleaner can help your health.
What are you carrying around now and how much of it could you do without?
You put a lot of thought, care and money into buying a new purse and you want to make sure your purchase lasts. What’s the best way to keep your bag looking new year after year? Here are five steps to keep it looking good longer.
I am a big reader and I love fashion so it makes sense that every once in a while I would pick up a style book. I have read many and although some of the information is repetitive, in each one I learn something–a new way to shop, a new website, a new tip about what looks good. Two that have taught me much are How to Be a Budget Fashionista by Kathryn Finney and The Pocket Stylist by Kendall Farr. Each of these explains how to find things that are flattering and stylish and how to use those things to create a style that is unique and best expresses you. I highly recommend them.
Do you have any favorite books that have inspired your style? Tell me about them!
Real Simple magazine-one of my faves-published a great article years back about what to look for when choosing a purse and how to care for it once you have one. When you are spending a lot, it’s important to look at things like stitching to you can make sure you are getting a quality item, and even if you are on a budget you want to make sure your purchase can stand some wear and tear. Here’s a brief version with some great tips.