The state of being without a handbag. This is not a word, but it should be because it is a definite state of being. Recently I left my bag at work and in order to get it would have had to had the caretaker come and re-open the building.

I decided that because I had my keys (car, house) I could manage without the bag for one night as I had not planned to go to the shops, would not need money (unless there was an emergency) and had some make up at home so I could look reasonably presentable the next morning.

However the empy disorientated feeling made me realise that the need for a handbag is not just the stuff it contains but the security of having a kit that makes sure we are prepared for almost anything. That’s why women’s handbags contain so much . Feeling as though we might be in any situation without the right equipment is scary, and that’s what a handbag is all about. Providing adequate tools for any situation life throws up.