Dallas - January 03, 2007

Strapping Young Thing

Wimberly Handbags

Pop quiz: Which word completes all of the following?

1. In preparation for a Krispy Kreme free-for-all, you loosen your blank.
2. Co-workers don’t appreciate when you blank out a Broadway tune in the break room.
3. A blank makes one hell of a purse strap.

No, we’re not trying to trick you with the last one, smarty-pants. The answer to all three is belt. Need proof? See Austin-based Wimberly handbags.

The roomy, rustic hobos — in colors like burgundy, turquoise, and black — have straps that look like actual leather belts with big coordinating buckles.

But when you need to make less of a statement with your sash, its line of leather or suede clutches (using buckles for clasps) comes in mighty handy. Which means adding one to your accessory fold’s a cinch.

Unless it’s time for you to tighten your, er, blank.

Available at Tootsies, 8300 Preston Road, The Plaza at Preston Center (214-696-9993). To see styles, go to wimberlyinc.com.