Dating as a control freak can be scary – if they choose where we go, what we do and when, it leaves me completely out of the loop. So once I’ve planned the outfit, the hair, the makeup, the accessories, there is only one other thing I can do to keep myself feeling in control: what I bring in my bag. 

It’s more than just an accessory, it’s a survival kit for any situation, so you won’t be caught out in front of your date. By being prepared for anything, it allows you peace of mind and the ability to relax on your date. Of course, you could take the risk and wear a jacket with pockets to keep your things in. However, I will always bring a bag after personal experiences. I once went on a date bagless (big mistake!) and my airpods fell out of my pocket in my date’s car. He then went on holiday to Greece for three weeks the day after, and we didn’t realise I had lost them until he left the country. So I was left musicless for what felt like a lifetime. Moral of the story here is always take a bag, just in case. 

Firstly, the type of bag you bring to any event is vital. Too big, it makes you seem overprepared. Too small and it’s impractical for you. So how do you find the perfect bag? My personal favourite is Pretty Little Thing’s black glossy rectangle hard clutch. It comes with a chain strap so can be worn on the shoulder or held. It is also a good option because it is simple in design and is plain black so can be dressed up or down, depending if it is an activity or dinner date. I personally like bags with pockets in the sides, so this is a good option if you like to keep smaller items in pockets. This allows quick and easy access to whatever it is you need. 

Two necessities for a date for me are lip gloss and mints or gum, for obvious reasons. There is nothing worse than kissing someone with bad breath – you can even offer them a mint just in case! My go to lip oil is the Technic Cloud Peptide Lip Oil. It keeps my lips feeling smooth and hydrated for hours after use. This product is a pale pink colour which makes my lips look naturally more full. Another one of my favourite products is the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Big Lip Plumpgasm. I personally like the shade medium to deep, as the darker tone defines my features. 

Another important thing for the girls who wear them is eyelash glue. Having a rogue eyelash falling off is anyone’s worst nightmare. You could even bring some tweezers to glue it back on if you have to. I always like to bring a safety pin too, just in case any fashion disasters happen to myself or someone else.

I also find it handy to have a tiny bottle of roll-on perfume, powder and a makeup brush to freshen up in between venues, or to sneak off into the bathroom. A perfume I have been loving recently is Tommy Girl, as the scent lasts for hours and I often get compliments that I smell good! This perfume also comes in a travel size should you wish to bring it with you to keep smelling fresh throughout the date.

Image credit: Melissa Battley and Tabitha Woolcott