93. Stop Carrying a Purse the Size of the QE2

If you want to simplify your fashion statement, your purse should be the most inconspicuous item you have. Preferably it should be invisible.

If you feel you must carry a purse, make it a very small one with a shoulder strap, so you can keep your hands free, and just big enough to hold an ID, some money, and your lipstick. What else do you really need for getting back and forth to work or going out for an evening? Any other items you think you can’t live without can be kept in the glove compartment of your car and/or stowed in your desk drawer at the office.

Of course, the slacks and skirts and jackets of your simple wardrobe (#22) will have pockets, and you can get by on most outings by stashing some cash and possibly your lipstick there.

If you’ve never experienced the freedom of not having to lug around a huge purse full of items you don’t need and seldom use—a so-called handbag that in almost every instance detracts from whatever you’re wearing—now is a good time to start.