I carry an enormous purse.

People think it's because I'm rushing from work to beauty events to drinks/dinner and the like.

But really, the size of my massive purse is about having room to store the ever-growing makeup bag I carry at all times. If I'm obsessed with a new cosmetic, it's simply not enough that I only use it in the morning. I partake in a ritual makeup re-application (not every item, but a few) circa 4 p.m. every day. Here, my essentials for looking smolderingly sexy all the livelong day.

Blotting Papers
I loathe powder makeup. So what’s the solution for oily skinned gals who want to eradicate shine without dealing with a film of powder sitting on their skin? Blotting papers. With a single sweep, they soak up dirt, oil and debris. Buy the generic drugstore brand iteration; they work just as well as the high-end ones.

Concealer
It's a real but sad truth that you need to reapply it at least once throughout the day. I keep one with a semi-dry consistency on me at all times to cover stubborn acne scars and conceal under-eye circles.

Lip Stain
These double as a blush in a pinch and pack a powerful, long-lasting punch that's key when it comes to long hours at work. A sheer red and pink hybrid will never steer you wrong.

Lip Balm
A stick of hydrating lip balm made with shea butter will keep you flake-free in the winter and softly moisturized in the summer. Layer over lip stain for a long-lasting but slightly reflective lip look.

Illuminator
Use a gold creamy illuminator on the tops of your cheekbones, along your nose, on your brow bone and above your cupid's bow for a lit-from-within glow.

Photo Credit: @iStockphoto.com/adisa