What's in my Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM + Review

Today I'm sharing what's inside my Louis Vuitton Neverfull and how I keep it organized. Tim gifted me this bag when I graduated with my Doctorate last year and I've been carrying it ever since. I call it my bag "hub" because when I switch into other bags I just pull from it what I need or will fit. I carry it to work every day (unless I expect a ton of rain - more on that later) and when I travel. I also wanted to share my pros and cons of the bag at the end in case you were researching before purchasing this bag! This post will probably be a long one, but instead of splitting it into two posts I figured it would be best to keep all of the information in one place.

What's inside my Louis Vuitton Neverfull

Some basics I keep inside: my wallet, planner, business cards, mini notebook, and phone. How do I keep such a large tote bag organized?? Pouches are going to be your friend. Instead of having everything mixed together, I use various makeup bags and small clutches so I know where to start looking for something. You can also buy an organizer, but I've found what I already have to be useful. The bag comes with a skinny clutch, and inside that I like to keep my checkbook and any recent recipts. Side note: I don't even know why I keep a checkbook in there, I never use them!

I have a small makeup pouch to keep the various lip products I use, bobby pins, some powder for touch ups, and fashion tape (you never know when you'll need this!).  I also always keep a hairbrush on hand because my fine hair loves to get tangled and I preferred a polished vs messy look. This one from Target is my favorite.

In a larger clutch, I put anything else that isn't makeup or something large enough to hang out on its own. These are the random necessities I think I have to have with me: Zicam (a must if you live in the south), sunscreen, hand cream, moist wipes, gum, and headphones. These headphones (gifted from Studio Sweden ) are the perfect size to keep with you in your bag, not to mention they are white and rose gold (heart eyes!).  I throw these on during my lunch to catch up on Instagram stories, etc. Don't worry, if you have small ears they come with a bunch of different sized buds to fit your ears. I have a 15% off code for y'all if you're interested, just enter STRAWBERRYCHICXO at checkout (and guess what, it never expires!) Also, there's no kickback to me if you use this code or anything.

Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM Pros

It Really is Neverfull

I've never had an issue fitting anything and everything I've needed inside this bag. It will carry my laptop and charger, some magazines or a book, my lunch, extra flats for when my feet hurt...etc! That's the main perk of this bag, hence the name.

Easy to See Into

Pretty self-explanatory, but I love how open this bag gets so I can easily find what I'm looking for.

Expandable

Most girls I see carrying this bag keep the sides open, but I do also like the look of it with the sides cinched in. 

Lightweight

Without anything inside it the bag is relatively lightweight in comparison to my other bags. However, it can also carry a lot more so it can get heavy depending on what you put inside it.

Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM Cons:

It Will Can Get Heavy

I've learned the hard way that this bag will definitely get heavy on your shoulder, which is why I typically switch into a cross body bag when I go shopping because when you add shopping bags into the mix your shoulder will get really uncomfortable. If I do carry it shopping or running errands, I try to unload some of the unnecessary things that's added up inside it throughout the work week. I think the main reason for shoulder pain is because of the thin straps. 

Not Weather Proof

This bag is meant to be carried for years and years, so I personally like the lived in strap look. However, if I expect a lot of rain I typically don't carry it because I don't want spotted raindrops to stain the straps. If I happen to get caught in the weather, I try to tuck in the straps and drape something over the bag to protect them. The canvas material, however, is perfect for a rainy day, so I don't have to worry about this part of the bag. Also, since the bag is open rain will fall into your belongings, so just think about that on rainy days. If this is a huge negative to you, consider getting the Damier Ebene and this won't be an issue.

Extra Organization is a Must

I definitely recommend getting additional storage to keep your belongings organized inside. I've seen storage compartments made for the bag, but as you can see I utilize cute pouches to keep mine organized. 

Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tips:

I keep the dust bag folded up along the bottom of my bag to keep the lining looking clean and new. 

Supposedly the straps can hold up to 200 pounds (I wouldn't want to know).

Wipe it clean with an alcohol-free wipe or use soap and water to remove stains. Ask a LV specialist on cleaning pen ink.

Just an FYI:  When you first purchase the bag the leather straps will stay upright, but this won't last for very long. I wanted to point that out because some people only want structured bags. 

I know this is a long-winded post, so thanks for making it this far with me! I hope you found this post helpful. If you have anything else to add about the bag, let me know in the comments!

xo Amanda John

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Coffee Table Books on Sale

Last night I was browsing the TJ Maxx website when I came across this coffee table book jackpot! TJ Maxx and HomeGoods are my go-to stores to get coffee table books, and I'll usually add one to my online purchase to get free shipping. However, I have never seen this many amazing options to choose from online so I wanted to share with y'all in case you're trying to collect them!

I love using coffee table books as decor to add interest and height to decorative objects. You'll see them all over my office tour on my shelf that I love to style! They can get expensive, especially if you have designer taste (I'm eyeing you Chanel and Louis Vuitton up there!). So if one of these has been on your wish list definitely snag them at these great prices. 

xo Amanda John

Fishtail Braid Tutorial for Beginners

Here is a simple step-by-step tutorial on how to do a messy fishtail braid on yourself. I used to save braids for the beach, but lately I've had a lot of fun experimenting with different braids to mix up my typical soft curled hairstyle. 

You will need:

a few bobby pins

2 clear elastic hair ties

hairspray

scissors

optional:

hair extensions (I'm wearing these c/o)

curling iron

 I like to twist my "bangs" and pin them back to keep them in place during the day. I just twist a small section and pin it with a bobby pin.

 I don't typically do this step anymore, but I think if you're just starting out this step makes it easier to start the fishtail braid. Use an extra clear elastic at the top to help keep your hair together as you learn the braid. You will cut this at the end when the fishtail braid is complete. Then separate your hair into two equal sections. 

 Grab a thin piece of hair from the outside of section one, then cross it over to section two. I prefer to use smaller sections even though it will take a little bit more time. It adds more dimension and texture to the braid. 

Repeat that step by grabbing an outside piece from section two and cross it over to section one. I like to tighten the braid between each section as I go. 

You'll repeat this crossing technique until you're happy with the length of the braid. Secure the end with a clear elastic hair tie. 

Pull and separate the length of the braid until your desired messiness is achieved. Then tighten the end of the brain by dividing it into two sections and pulling them apart. This will make the ends look a little thicker. 

Carefully cut the top clear elastic, then finish with hairspray. 

If you have layered hair, you will need to use bobby pins to tuck in little fly aways into the braid (see how in the video below). Curls the ends of your hair if desired, but be careful to avoid touching the elastic band. I've learned from experience theses will easily break if they touch the hot tool! I also like to curl a piece in the front on the side opposite of the braid to add some balance to the look. 

I also filmed a video if you want to watch the step by step process below. If you're looking for my ruffled top, it's currently sold out. I'll keep my eyes peeled for a re-stock and if you come across one in stock definitely size up!

I'd love to see how your fishtail braid turned out! Tag me on Instagram with your finished braids (@strawberrychicxo)

Thank you for reading,

xo Amanda John 

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