How to Actually See the Bottom of Your Purse

If your purse has become a dumping ground for every small item you encounter, it's time to banish the stale peppermints, four shades of lipstick and old receipts. Purging and reorganizing will help you find your keys, a pen or the bridge toll in record time. Follow the tips below and carry your clutch with confidence.



Step1
Dump out contents onto a working surface and toss the trash. Pare down to the essentials. For example, carry one all-purpose lipstick versus several.


Step2
Pull out notes, reminders and receipts, and transfer critical information to your to-do list, calendar or tickler system. See 10 Set Up a Reminder System, 266 Coordinate a Family Calendar and 3 Write an Effective To-Do List.


Step3
Assess the bag's ability to hold what is left. Is it the right size? Could you go smaller or larger? If so, it's time to raid your closet or go shopping for a new purse.


Step4
Make the most of zipper pockets and open slots by assigning a specific item to each location. For example, use one pocket for your phone and another for sunglasses. Get in the habit of always returning items to their special spot.


Step5
Purge your purse weekly to keep it functioning at its best.

How to Accessorize Your Maternity Wardrobe

You can create multiple ensembles when you mix your casual and professional maternity wear with a few key accessories. Switch a pendant and decorative pair of tights for a colorful printed scarf, and your black A-line dress will take on a whole new look. Accessories are also a superb way to divert attention from your belly.

Step1
Pair a solid square scarf in a bold color with a print blouse or multicolored sweater. Tie it around your neck or make a headwrap out of it.


Step2
Jazz up a solid dress or tunic with a large colorful print scarf. For a sportier look, tie a lightweight sweater over your shoulder.


Step3
Consider buying or borrowing a few large broaches or pins. When placed just below either collarbone, they'll deflect attention away from your belly and give your basic solid tops a different look.


Step4
Wear a string of pearls or a trendy choker with an open-collared blouse or scoop-neck tunic. Pair a pendant on a long chain with a fine-gauge V-neck sweater or T-shirt dress.


Step5
Introduce decorative nylons and printed tights into your wardrobe. Whether you choose a bold and colorful plaid tight or a refined polka-dot stocking, your legs are sure to take some attention away from your midsection.


Step6
Slip on a couple of bangles or a charm bracelet. The sound and decoration will surely attract any onlookers' attention.