ALICE BAG IS a Chicana punk legend. In the late ’70s, she fronted the pioneering L.A. band the Bags and has been making music, writing books (including her memoir Violence Girl), fighting for education and immigrant rights, and toppling the patriarchy ever since. (Maybe you’ve seen her in Penelope Spheeris’ classic documentary The Decline of Western Civilization or more recently as the opening act on Bikini Kill’s reunion tour.) At 61, she’s released a new solo album, Sister Dynamite (In the Red Records), and it’s full of feminist bangers. “One of the messages I really want to put out is that getting old is so much fun. And as a woman it’s very liberating,” she says. “I don’t have to live up to anything.” We got the goods on what’s in Bag’s bag, so you can, too.
Bésame Red Hot Red Lipstick
“This highly pigmented, matte color is a 1959-inspired lipstick created by makeup historian Gabriela Hernandez that doesn’t dry my lips. It comes in a glamorous golden bullet case etched with red blossoms.” Bésame Red Hot Red Lipstick, $24, besamecosmetics.com
Earasers Earplugs
“Rock ’n’ roll is cool, hearing loss is not. Earasers come in a variety of sizes. They fit comfortably and are nearly invisible. They provide just the right amount of protection to let me enjoy a concert without sacrificing my eardrums.” Earasers Earplugs, $49.99, earasers.net
Vive Cosmetics Qué Matte Liquid Lipstick
“This is a matte liquid lip color that goes on smooth and stays on. I like it in Amor Eterno, a highly saturated blood red. Plus Vive donates a portion of all sales to LGBTQ and Latinx organizations.” Vive Cosmetics Qué Matte Liquid Lipstick in Amor Eterno, $20, vivecosmetics.com
Dr. Bronner’s Lavender Organic Hand Sanitizer
“My drummer turned me on to this sanitizer while we were on tour at the height of cold and flu season. This is the perfect purse-size spray to tuck into your bag. Sanitized hands will help keep you healthy and the lavender scent will help keep you calm.” Dr. Bronner’s Lavender Organic Hand Sanitizer, $4.99, target.com
Brujita Pa’ Todo Mal Lip Balm
“Brujita products are sourced from mercados in Mexico. This soothing and hydrating lip balm has castor and grapeseed oils for soft kisses laced with hints of orange and clove.” Brujita Pa’ Todo Mal Lip Balm, $5, brujitaskincare.com
Yaocihuatl Organic Hemp Sunscreen
“My favorite sunscreen. Free from harsh preservatives and other things that make me itch. It protects my skin without greasiness or streaking.” Yaocihuatl Organic Hemp Sunscreen, $15, kaleidoscopekollective.com
By Lisa Butterworth
Photography Denée Segall
This article originally appeared in the Summer 2020 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!
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