Gun Girl Fashions help women carry in style

Bags, jewelry, merchandise targets women gun owners

SOUTH FLORIDA – According to the latest Gallup poll, roughly 25 percent of all the women in the U.S. own a firearm. In the search to carry in style, one South Florida woman came up with a solution that's right on target.

Susan Kushlin has been shooting for 2 1/2 years. She's part of a growing number of hand gun owners.

"Yes, I shoot. Yes, I'm a woman," Kushlin said. "Yes I'm proud to shoot, and not only that, I can be dressed like a woman, go shooting and then go out to dinner or go shopping afterwards."

While shopping for shooting apparel and accessories, Kushlin found a big hole in the marketplace.

"I like nice things. I like fashion-forward things, and the bags that I saw didn't fit the bill of what I like," she said.

And so, Kushlin developed her own line of concealed-carry handbags and totes. With discreet zippered slots for left or right-handed shooters.

There are purses for day or evening use -- for those women who want to feel secure and fashionable at all times.

"It also needs to be functional," Kushlin said. "And be pretty and bling. Women love it. There are all different styles."

So far, Gun Girl Fashions are in three stores so far. Kushlin goes door-to-door, meeting with male shop owners who are eager to take aim at a growing customer base.

"I think there is a very big market for purses like this," said Les Wexler. "It's just getting it out and advertising it and showing the product, making women be aware this stuff is available."

When she's not shooting, Kushlin is being shot herself -- for product photos. Besides purses, she has a line of shirts, tank tops and jackets. Bullet belts, bracelets and earrings are also available. They are products Kushlin says shooters and non-shooters can enjoy.

"My products can be for so many different types of people, and the bottom line is, it's all fashion," she said.

All concealed-carry bags are under $85, jackets $65. Belts, bracelets and earrings are $35 and under.

Kushlin is encouraged with sales so far and is looking to expand into products for men, mostly shirts and jackets.

For more information, visit, gungirlsinc.vpweb.com