Atlanta - March 13, 2007

Cash ’n’ Carry

Merrell Handbags

Certain things are best kept at arm’s length: toxic friends, sample perfume, and totes that cause shoulder dislocation.

Bringing us to Carrollton native Merrell McGinness, whose preppy new purses solve that last dilemma.

McGinness, a former nine-to-fiver, grew tired of schlepping multiple carryalls from office to happy hour to home again, so she created her own super-functional line of bags. The straps are designed to make multiple pockets a cinch to get to, and the bags all fit comfortably over your arm or shoulder.

The debut collection includes classic shapes (like Margaret and Brin), saddle silhouettes (like Maggie), and wallets that convert to purses with just a strap or two (Shannon has a detachable wristlet).

Most styles are available in leather (honey brown, sand, or white) or canvas.

Even better, because you’ll want at least a few in your clutches.

Available at BD Jeffries, 3736 Roswell Road, Buckhead (404-231-3004); Mitzi’s Shoe Box, 1004 Virginia Avenue NE, Virginia Highland (404-873-4718); online at merrellbags.com.