Living Green

Shopping with style

ATLANTA — Plastic bags haven't blown away for good. But as shoppers and retailers start to focus on sustainability, the ubiquitous carry-alls are picking up some stylish competition.

At Whole Foods, which plans to eliminate plastic checkout bags by Earth Day on April 22, shoppers can choose from several canvas or recycled plastic designs. Trader Joe's entices shoppers to bring reusable bags by giving away groceries each week. Other types of retailers, including Home Depot and Target, also have introduced signature sacks.

Designers are turning out alternatives for those willing to spend more than a couple of bucks on a shopping bag, from a $960 silk bag from Hermes of Paris to Juicy Couture's arresting pink canvas tote.

Here's a look at what's available.

Bazura Bag

What's special: Made from used juice containers by a women's cooperative in the Philippines.

Cost: $24

Where: www.reusablebags.com

Home Depot Carryall

What's special: Plastic handles on this wide bag snap over shopping cart sides

Cost: $1.99

Where: Home Depot

Trader Joe's Household Posh City Reusable Tote

What's special: Eligibility for weekly drawings for free groceries

Cost: $1.99

Where: Trader Joe's

Juicy Couture "Icon" Canvas Tote Bag in Careless

What's special: '80s nostalgia. Frankie Says Knockoff.

Cost: $75

Where: Nordstrom, nordstrom.com and saks.com

Hermes of Paris SilkyPop

What's special: Silk bag with leather case, silverplated zipper

Cost: $960

Where: www.hermes.com

Whole Foods Market Cotton Tote

What's special: Shoulder strap and handles. 10-cent rebate for use.

Cost: $7.99

Where: Whole Foods Market, Harry's Farmers Market

Whole Foods Market Recycled Bag

What's special: 10-cent rebate for use.

Cost: 99 cents

Where: Whole Foods Market, Harry's Farmers Market

Target Reusable Shopping Bag

What's special: Zips back into the bag for a pocket-sized tote.

Cost: 99 cents

Where: Target

Wal-Mart Reusable Shopping Bag

What's special: Bag advertises your concern for the Earth, not the store.

Cost: $1

Where: Wal-Mart

Recycle Tote Bag

What's special: Plastic-lined for easy cleaning; same size as paper grocery bag.

Cost: $28

Where: www.tenthousandvillages.com

Kroger Reusable Shopping Bag

What's special: If you like bright blue, you can't go wrong

Cost: 99 cents

Where: Kroger

Publix Reusable Shopping Bag

What's special: Not much, unless you're a minimalist

Cost: 99 cents

Where: Publix