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Purse Must-Haves for Formal

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Amy Melser Student Contributor, Brandeis University
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Asya Bashina Student Contributor, Brandeis University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Brandeis chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

With Junior and Senior Formal quickly approaching (March 12), it’s easy to forget that you’ll need a purse to go with your fabulous dress! Finding the perfect purse may take some time, or you may already have a clutch stashed away in your tiny Brandeis closet. Whatever the case may be, it is important to bring some essentials with you for the formal (or a night on the town). This year’s formal will be on a cruise around Boston Harbor with dinner and dancing. You don’t want to be hauling a bag around that will weigh you down.
 
Provided below is a checklist of a couple items you won’t want to forget:

  • Lip gloss/ChapStick/Lip balm: A great way to keep your lips hydrated and also looking kissable
  • Oil-blotting sheets: Avoid reapplying powder from a compact—why would you want to look cakey?
  • Gum/mints: It’s good to keep it fresh, but here’s a tip: Avoid chewing gum if you’re wearing a body-conscious dress—it can have a bloating effect.
  • Driver’s license: If you’re of age and want to get a drink
  • Student ID: Just in case you need it to prove you’re a student/part of Brandeis; it’s always good to have.
  • Digital camera: Why not capture the night?
  • Cash: About $20 should suffice.
  • Ticket!

Mothers always seem to have tissues in their purses, but unless you have major allergies, I don’t see the use for them. Also, if you’re a bit of a germaphobe (like me), you could stash a tiny hand sanitizer in your purse (but there’s always a bathroom if you feel like washing your hands). Lastly, sometimes at the dentist they give you tiny dental flosses. I really like to carry these around because you never know what could get stuck in your teeth (just remember not to floss at the table)!
 
I hope this list helps everyone streamline the contents of those purses for formal!