Get a bag, have fun with 'The Girls'

By Paula Rath
Advertiser Staff Writer

Eye-catching graphics distinguish "The Girls" collection from Sunny Hawaii.

Girls just wanna have fun, and they're increasingly defining themselves through their leisure activities, rather than their careers.

That's the premise behind a fresh new line of accessories by Sunny Hawaii, the Honolulu-based firm that's fast gaining a foothold in department stores nationwide.

The hobby-inspired collection is called "The Girls." It's all about being a girly-girl who likes to do girly things. "After 9/11 people are looking for something fun and whimsical that will make them smile," said Cheryl Schaefer, Sunny Hawaii's owner and president. "We're not a serious handbag. We keep things light."

These are not your average (yawn) black leather bags.

"The Girls" are delightful graphics (they look like fashion illustrations) by artist Melissa Gitelman, embroidered on canvas tote bags, cosmetic bags, train cases and baseball caps. The first collection consists of Shopping Girl, Yoga Girl, Bikini Girl, Spa Girl, Exercise Girl and Golf Girl, in red or black.

Soon to arrive: Glamour Girl, Fashion Girl, Chocolate Girl and Cosmopolitan Girl (with a pink girly martini in her hand).

Sunny Hawaii is still manufacturing its line of Hawai'i-inspired microfiber bags with palm trees, pareo prints and hula dancers. However they are expanding with a line of handbags and soft luggage in subtle tone-on-tone jacquards. Soon to be on store shelves is a style that's destined to be a hit with Hawai'i women: An Asian collection that includes a handbag shaped like a Chinese takeout box with a gold metal handle.

"The Girls" sell for $10 to $60 at Macy's, McInerny, Riches in Kahala Mall, and resort and golf shops.