The Privacy of Purses

Most of us have heard, at one point or another, “never go in a woman’s purse.” Often uttered by our mothers and usually stated in an ominous tone of forewarning, as if women have something incredibly confidential within their Michael Kors handbags. This privacy extends to every area of life, but what makes a purse such a distinct symbol of discretion lies both in its contents and context.

Women are taught to always be prepared. The media is full of “what’s in my bag” and “top 10 things you should always keep in your purse” content which urges women to always be ready for any situation that could arise, whereas most men only carry a wallet.

British Vogue’s popular “In the Bag” video series dismantles the privacy myth by having stars like Simone Ashley and Gemma Chan dissect their everyday bags. From stylish spectacles to luxury perfumes, each item has a story or usefulness associated with it. There is an influential nature in exposing a bag's contents as viewers want to see every aspect of what’s within celebrity designer totes. The series fuels the “I want that” attitude that so many of us have regarding our idols’ personal tastes. 

If you want to know the truth behind women’s discretion regarding their sacred bags, the secrets lie in women’s history. Feminine clothes notoriously lacked pockets and still do today. Therefore, women have no choice but to carry a purse in most situations. Purses didn’t always promote privacy, as snap enclosure and functionality were only prioritized in the twentieth century. Bags also originated as vulgar statement pieces because a woman’s belongings were not meant to be outerwear. 

Women have always been taught that they should be powdered to perfection and exist as figures of an unattainable image (hence the ever-shifting beauty standard). Women used to carry handkerchiefs for tears and messes, and were told that periods should not be spoken about. To be a woman is often to be a mother and lose jurisdiction over what we carry in our purses—children’s diapers, wipes, and snacks. There is a culture of femininity that goes beyond the handbag in which womanhood involves a sense of community that links us at a deeper level. 

So yes, purses do contain our favorite lip glosses, feminine hygiene products, and spare hair elastics; but they are also intimate culminations of our lives. Those of us with hoarding tendencies have ancient receipts and movie stubs highlighting our fondest memories. Mechanics carry tools, and artists carry pencils. Women everywhere carry pepper spray because a purse can be an invitation to violence and theft. What we tote around in our bags—whether it be a crossbody, satchel, or clutch—is important and should be as private as we wish. The myth remains true that there is silent respect in place that women’s purses are sacred and privacy is sometimes the least we ask.  

Strike Out,

Matilda Pollard

Boca Raton

Matilda Pollard is a Content Writer for Strike Magazine Boca. She is a proud Pisces who loves all things creative. Her hobbies include trying new foods and watching classic rom-coms. You can reach her at mpollard280@gmail.com