Chicago - October 21, 2004

Keep it in the Family

Tano Handbags

Black sheep. Every family’s got one.

The Corleones had Fredo, a traitorous imbecile. The Keatons had Alex, a Young Republican. And the Giners had dear old Grandpa Sebastian, a basket-weaving bag maker.

Still, it’s family. What can you do?

Well, if murder on a lake isn’t an option (and, hello, it’s not), you can start a business. Like Tano Bags. When the Giner grandkids took over the biz in 2002, they decided to honor Sebastian’s legacy by giving the handbags a decidedly modern transformation.

Made of the finest Italian leather, the bags all have details like tassels, contrast trimming, and hand distressing. This season’s collection is especially cool — with inventive shapes in shimmering shades and urban-inspired designs made of super-soft leather. Our favorite is Gorilla, a grommet-adorned carryall with removable straps.

So, when someone asks you where you got your bag — and they will — just tell them, “Remember my crazy Aunt Judy who ran off to Spain to raise cattle and study flamenco? She sent it to me.”

Lucky you.

Available at Shebang, 1616 North Damen Avenue, at North Avenue (773-486-3800 or tanobag.com).