Children are known to play in it, men are baffled by all that goes into it, while women, well, they rarely leave home without it. It’s the purse.

This versatile bag happens to come in all different styles, shapes and sizes — from a simple pocketbook to a full sized tote — and were actually worn by 17th Century Europeans for the sole purpose of holding coins.

These days handbags tend to carry a lot more than just loose change.

We asked a handful of fashion forward girls to tell us what were the most important items in their purse and why. Here’s their answers:

Debbie Mello, 29, Assistant Accountant

What’s one thing in your purse that you wouldn’t want to leave the house without?

Definitely for me I always have a bright lipstick with me from MAC. I just think it dresses up every outfit and always put me in a good mood and brightens my look. I also always have in my purse at least one random thing that my daughter has thrown in there, be it a toy or something like that. Those random items come in handy when I’m with her and help me to keep her occupied while we’re out.

How would you describe your style?

I don’t have a set style and tend to go with the flow. But I would say it varies from being flirty and girlie to something more structured or edgy.

What inspires you when it comes to fashion?

I tend to find inspiration in magazines like Glamour and Vogue, but sites like Pinterest are also great now a days because it’s easy to find and search for new looks.

Sophie Ternent, 32, Hair Salon Operator

What’s one thing in your purse that you wouldn’t want to leave the house without?

I always wear this product called Baby Lips from Maybelline. It’s a good moisturiser for your lips, but also gives you a hint of colour as well. Sometimes you have to carry both a lipstick and a chapstick and this product is great because it’s a two in one. I also always carry a good eyeliner with me. It’s good to always have handy just in case I am not wearing eyeliner at work that day and want to add a little bit of punch to my eyes. For me, even if the rest of your face is bare, eyeliner can make a big difference. Right now I am using Maybelline’s Master Graphic. It’s like using a felt tip marker so it makes applying it really easy. Also, I like to have mints with me to freshen up, just in case.

How would you describe your style?

I mostly wear black, just because in my profession everyone wears black. It makes it easy for me if something spills and the colour also looks professional. It’s also fun because you can pretty much wear anything as long as it’s black. And it gives me the chance to accessorise with nice jewellery. When you’re wearing something simple you want to add accessories that makes a statement. And plus, don’t all girls love jewellery?

What inspires you when it comes to fashion?

I like looking through Instagram. There is so much on there to browse through and there’s something for everyone, no matter what your style.

Ellie Dolding, 63, Corporate Administration and Compliance Manager

What’s one thing in your purse that you wouldn’t want to leave the house without?

For me it’s perfume. The one I’m wearing today is Angel by Thiery Muglar. It just smells good on me and people are always saying ‘Wow, what’s your perfume’, so it’s something that goes good with my body’s unique chemistry.

How would you describe your style?

I guess I’d say it’s bright and young. I probably don’t dress my age, but I don’t feel it either. I wear things that make me happy. To me that’s what fashion is all about — allowing your style to bring out your personality.

What inspires you when it comes to fashion?

I like magazines and celebrity fashion, but I get most inspired when I’m in the various boutiques in town like Klimaxx, Cooper’s Express and Vibe.

Tiffany Matthie, 27, Salon Business Owner

What’s one thing in your purse that you wouldn’t want to leave the house without?

I always carry my sunglasses with me. They’re good for a hot day and add a little spunk to my outfit. Also, my lipgloss. I like for my lips to stand out with bold colours. One of my favourites is a deep rose shade of Marilyn Monroe Diorific Lipstick by Dior.

How would you describe your style?

I tend to just get up and go, but I’d say my style is both quirky and stylish. I try to pick things that match my free spirited personality.

What inspires you when it comes to fashion?

I like looking at social media and magazines. If I see something I like, I might try it, but with a twist to make it suit me.