New York - August 20, 2004

Fruit of the Loom

Ananas Handbags

If you like piña coladas …

If? Who doesn’t? (It beats getting caught in the rain.)

May we suggest you take a gander at a genius collection of handbags called Ananas. The line, whose name means “pineapple” in French, first featured pieces made from pina, a natural pineapple fiber; the new collection uses abaca, a material woven from the banana plant. If “natural fiber” conjures scary images of hippie sling bags, you’ll be surprised: These are elegant fan-shaped purses and clutches in vibrant color combinations, with embroidered patterns, leather flowers, and cute handles. This season’s collection adds styles in flirty metallic leather.

Making it once again possible to groove out on your Leather and Lace.

Available at Steven Alan, 103 Franklin Street, between Broadway and Church Street (212-343-0692); or Takashimaya, 693 Fifth Avenue, between 54th and 55th Streets (800-753-2038). To see styles, go to ananascollection.com.