Bags are a woman’s most prized possession. Every bag tells a story. They are a statement piece that’s meant to complement outfits. Every item stashed in a bag serves a purpose — whether it’s a sentimental charm or a snack. And when it comes to celebrities, the contents of their bags are surprisingly relatable. They may be struck on the red carpet in diamonds and couture, but when it comes to “what’s in their bag,” many of our favourite stars are refreshingly relatable.
Christian Dior, Thierry Hermès, and Tarun Tahiliani have made bags for women that go beyond black leather straps, gold metal, and bold luxury designer bag names — these designers have tapped into what modern women want: mini time capsules that hold a bit of a woman’s world within their zippers. It’s time to unzip and find out “what’s in your bag.”
The Survival Kit
Priyanka Chopra Jonas is not an easy girl to catch, as PC jets around the globe with many commitments, her bag is practically a survival kit. Think sleek portable chargers, mini skincare products, and an emergency stash of dry fruits for those long-haul flights. After all, when you have the world at your feet, you need to look good — and there can be no compromise.
Hydration Heroine
Deepika Padukone is a non-stop powerhouse. When you are in demand like her, your skin will need a break. Her bag is a hydration haven, complete with a facial mist, hydrating lip balm, and a massive water bottle she never leaves home without. She brings along with her a leather-bound notebook for jotting down creative bursts between shoots. And for those grounding moments, there is a small pebble from a treasured beach vacation nestled in her purse, reminding her of calmness amidst the chaos. “Journaling is a therapeutic practice, especially for creatives like Taylor Swift who are constantly processing experiences through their art,” explains psychologist Dr. Amelia Clark.
The Zen Bag
Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s bag is a self-care sanctuary on the go. Inside, you’ll find a soothing lavender essential oil roller for stress relief, a small travel yoga mat (because why not strike a yoga pose mid-break?), and a gratitude journal. No diva tantrums here — just mindful vibes and calm energy, packed neatly in her chic tote.
Glam Mama On-the-Go
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s bag is a glamorous blend of luxury and motherhood essentials. Alongside her go-to red lipstick and oversized sunglasses, there’s often a tiny sippy cup for her little one, Jeh. She’s also a firm believer in snack breaks, so a pouch of almonds makes a regular appearance. And naturally, a bottle of her favourite perfume is tucked inside because Kareena wouldn’t dare step out without smelling like a dream. “Moms in the entertainment industry often juggle between shoots and parenting, so their bags become a hybrid of luxury and utility,” says parenting expert Roshni Agarwal.
Baby Wipes, Bookish Vibes
Alia Bhatt — actress, producer, and now doting mom — has traded in her exclusively glam essentials for a healthy dose of practicality. Her designer bag contains a little bit of everything: baby wipes (because tiny hands find messes like magnets), a silk scrunchie, and a Kindle pre-loaded with contemporary romance novels. A small good luck charm gifted by husband Ranbir Kapoor also finds its home there, adding a sprinkle of sentimental sparkle to her everyday hustle. “Many people keep sentimental items like notes or trinkets in their bags as a source of emotional support,” says therapist Dr. Nina Patel.
Calm & Collected
Selena Gomez loves a well-packed bag. Known for her laid-back style, she carries a pouch of essential oils and a rose quartz crystal for good energy. Her health-conscious side is apparent, with a reusable water bottle and sugar-free mints always within reach. Plus, a pair of sunglasses for the ultimate incognito look because even pop queens need a little privacy.
Beauty & Beats
When it comes to Dua Lipa, music is a non-negotiable. Inside her bag, you’ll find wireless earbuds and a portable speaker, ready for an impromptu jam session. Her beauty essentials? A bold red lipstick and mini dry shampoo for touch-ups on the go. And of course, a small notebook for songwriting inspiration — because hits don’t write themselves.
Scent and Style
Rihanna is the queen of effortless style, and her bag echoes her chic persona. At the top of the list? Her Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb for that perfect pout. But the pièce de résistance is her signature fragrance — a small bottle of her own Fenty perfume. Rihanna is also known to carry statement jewellery pieces, ready to elevate any outfit in seconds.
Snack Queen
Jennifer Lawrence has made no secret of her love for food, and her bag is a testament to that. Granola bars, gummy candies, and a small bag of pretzels are often her go-to stash. Alongside the snacks, she keeps lip balm, a pair of oversized sunglasses, and a mini hand sanitizer — because practicality is key.
Bags Tell a Story
So, the next time that you feel your tangled earphones or digging out that lone mint from the depths of your bag, just remember that these celebs too live the same life as us: a bag isn’t just about what it carries, it’s about the stories it tells. So, what’s your story-in-a-bag?
