The two brothers behind the accessories line Billykirk are well aware that, before they began working with a community of Amish craftsmen to create their leather goods, most of what they knew about that culture came from watching the movie Witness. "There are not many Kelly McGillises around," Kirk Bray laments, while walking through southern Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, with his brother and business partner, Chris. The pair commission belts, bags, and other pieces from a local father of four who runs a shop that was designed to make bridles, reins, and bibs for thoroughbred horses. Today, the Brays cite equestrian gear as a direct influence, even redeploying bits and harness buckles to cinch belts. Other inspirations include the sporty minimalism of vintage L.L. Bean gear and the foxy functionality of old industrial clothing. Billykirk's "hidden buckle belt" — adapted from a 1950s model created so that auto workers wouldn't scratch cars — is now a favorite of the boys in the band Wilco. As Chris explains, "A lot of guitarists don't like to wear buckles because it beats the shit out of their guitars."

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