Duct Tape Fashions

Dec. 22, 2004 — -- Those popular iPod minis aren't the only hot holiday gifts arriving in a rainbow of colors this season. Why not pair up that pink high-tech gadget with a rosy-colored duct tape handbag?

It may sound like a joke, but plenty of folks are snapping up these durable versions of accessories from companies selling their wares in boutiques and on the Internet.

"We've had really good results for the holiday season," said Duct Tape Creations founder Scott Howard, who said his products are sold out until the new year.

The comedy writer works with designers to turn rolls of the colored tape into backpacks, wallets, belts and even handbags. "They really are functional," said Howard. "Real purses that are well-designed, some of them are almost like Kate Spade knockoffs -- in duct tape."

That's quite a transition for the material, more typically a Mr. Fix-it than a fashionista fave for its ability to hold just about anything together. But Howard says his products are more than just sticky throwaways.

"We don't just slap together a couple of pieces of duct tape," said Howard. "Some of these bags take literally two hours of work to put it together … folding and creasing and making sure all the edges are tight … adding details like grommets, leather, lace and cutting out patterns."

And they'll last for more than one fashion season. Howard said they're so durable, "you could, like, take a bath with your purse and it would be OK."

Duct tape, traditionally found in silver and used to bind together old bikes, suitcases and even cars, is now available in a range of colors, including pink, red and purple.

Howard said the products have a "hipster quality" that's appealing to college kids, punk rockers and anyone looking for something with a more industrial edge than a standard leather wallet or bag. They're even headed to the red carpet -- Howard is negotiating with film studios to use duct tape bags for gift items at Hollywood premieres.