Cosmetics bag

We're suckers for a cute makeup bag but as much as we love designer cosmetics cases, nothing hurts more than foundation spilling on your new YSL cosmetics case. The double blow of spilt makeup and a ruined bag is almost too much to take, so we're always on the lookout for cheaper little numbers that are fun and fabulous, and our recent find is these Topshop Leather Makeup Bags that come in grey and coral ($45 each). Measuring 24cm wide, with a height of 16cm, they're a decent size for all of your powders and paints. They'd also be the perfect replacement clutch if you ever decide to do last-minute drinks after work! Got a fave shade?

If you had $400 in cash on you, chances are you wouldn't just carry it around in your wallet for fear of losing it or it getting stolen. But a new study found that Britsh women are carrying around approx $410 worth of makeup with them EVERY SINGLE DAY. No wonder our hangbags are so heavy. 'Pparently the average cosmetics case features 13 essential items which each work out to cost $32 on average. It sounded like a lot until I emptied mine out and found a primer worth $90, a $70 mascara, four lipsticks at $54 each and much, much more.

But the funny thing is, even though most of our makeup bags would total up to be worth more than our phones, cameras, and sometimes even the bag itself, barely any of us are insuring our makeup or would even think to. I know I wouldn't. I kind of feel like NRMA would laugh if I said "Hello, I'd like to add my limited edition Narciso Rodriguez fragrance to my portable items, please." Don't you? But UK department store Debanhams is urging women to reconsider, with Ruth Attridge saying: "The lipstick index has shown that treating yourself to designer make-up will boost your mood and transform your look, without busting your purse strings. However, when your makeup bag becomes the most valuable item in your handbag, it’s time to ensure your insurance is up to date." What say you? Does your makeup bag contents add up to $400 or more? Will you be insuring it now?

Apple & Bee is a brand that you must acquaint yourself with. NOW. Pourquoi? Well the Aussie-owned brand makes the most beaut-iful and adorable makeup and toiletry bags. But hold up, it gets even better. They're not just any cosmetics bags, oh no. They're eco chic cosmetics bags. See the founders of the brand, Brett Stewart (the founder of natural skincare company, bod) and Claire Morris (the former Art Director of Marie Claire magazine) are both committed to protecting the environment, which is why they're proud to call Apple & Bee a carbon neutral company and proud to donate a percentage of their profits back to environmental organisations. Good one. Their collection of makeup and toiletry bags, for both him and her, is broad and features fold-out wash bags with hangers, bowling bag-style designs and pencil cases that make the perfect place to store your brushes. Check out some of our top picks.

Stockists: Apple & Bee