Nearly every woman I know carries a purse, no matter her age.

And whether it’s a no-name leather satchel purchased at the thrift store, a designer knock-off snatched up in Chinatown, or a bona-fide Balenciaga you saved years to buy, purses say a lot about their owner.

A purse can reveal a woman’s sassiness or practicality; her desire for structure or freedom. Is she feeling elegant? Powerful? Sexy?

A woman really is her handbag.

The YWCA of Tampa Bay is celebrating the relationship women have with their purses during its “Purses & Passion” fundraiser. The event features photos of 100 bay area women and their purses shot by professional and amateur photographers.

Women like Ella Mary Holmes, 91, a retired elementary principle who is active in civic and community activities and church. Holmes, who loves hats, says she was blown away when she saw her picture. “I’m just so surprised,” she said, staring at her pix.  “I had no idea I was going to be up there.”

The exhibit also features Tampa Bay Derby Darlin’ Joanie Atkins, aka Strawberry Shortskate, and her dog, Paquita.

If you’re wondering, I’m in the exhibit clutching my favorite purse, which happens to be the first purse my mother bought me when I was about 20. Photographer Julie Busch took a fabulous picture. I just happen to not like it (but really, what woman does?). because it was taken 30 pounds ago.

Nonetheless, mom LOVED it! And she loved the fact I chose the purse for my picture, once she figured out it was me up there. “Mira mi negra, que linda,” she beamed.

This is the second year for the “Purses & Passion,” exhibit, which raises money the YWCA, a social services organization that serves girls, women and their families.

The exhibit runs noon to 4 p.m. every day through Saturday, June 14 at The Studio@620, 620 1st. Ave., S, in St. Petersburg. Admission is free.

So, grab your favorite purse and head to the exhibit. You’ll be helping a very worthy cause.

Want more information, call (727) 895-6620.