Bag Lady: Maureen Gillespie

Why is it, do you think, that as a child you were warned to never, ever, 'go into' a woman's handbag?

At the Irish Examiner we know why. If you really wantto know a woman, take a look in her pocketbook which we do in our regular Bag Lady feature.

This week our Bag Lady is the New York Regional Director of the American Ireland Fund, Maureen Gillespie. Prior to taking up her post at AIF, Maureen spent several years working with the Estee Lauder Corporation providing PR for several of theirbrands including the sublime Jo Malone. (Can you guess it's a personal favorite?) Maureen took some time out of her busy schedule, which currently includes planning the annual young Leaders summer bash which takes place July 19th (see www.irlfunds.org for more details). So then Ms.Gillespie fess up, what's in your wall..., eh, pocketbook?"

How many handbags do you own? Three handbags and two totes for work.

Do you have a favorite handbag, please describe? Why is it your favorite? My favorite is a white leather bag from last spring's Donna Karan Collection, which I acquired when I worked with the brand. It's as versatile as black, but white offers a fresh, modern appeal.

Do you have a favorite handbag design/designer and why? This is a tough one, but I'd probably choose Ferragamo. Their designs are classic, luxurious and practical. They are investment pieces, and they last forever.

What is in your makeup bag right now? Estee Lauder Foundation, Chanel Glossimers, Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Compact, Mac Lip Pencil in Burgundy and a Vaseline Tin that I bought at an apothecary in Mallow, County Cork. I can't seem to find these tins in the US, so I stock up every time I visit Ireland.

Do you cleanse tone and moisturize? It's important to maintain healthy skin and I am disciplined about my skin care regime. My morning routine is to cleanse and then hydrate with a moisturizer containing an SPF. Sun protection is a must...we Irish girls are fair! In the evenings, I cleanse, tone and use a richer moisturizer for added hydration. I also use Jo Malone Green Tea and Honey Eye Cream in both the morning and evening.

Which cleanser, moisturizer and toner do you use? Cetaphil Cleanser, Kiehl's Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15 and Jo Malone Rosemary and Lavender Tonic.

What is your all-time favorite brand and why? Jo Malone for skin care and fragrance. Each product is efficacious and offers a true sensorial experience...everything feels and smells fantastic. The skin care combinations take into account that skin is always changing due to stress, hormone fluctuations and seasonal changes. And her fragrance layering concept let's me have fun with different scents. I love to mix it up!

What cosmetic/cleansing item could you not live without? Lip color instantly awakens the face.

Would you have cosmetic surgery and do you have any strong feelings either anti/pro cosmetic surgery? If it's physically safe and spiritually enhancing, go for it!

Do you prefer handbags or shoes? While I love shoes, there is nothing chicer than a great handbag...especially for a New York City girl on the go.