THE WORD ON WHAT’S HIP AND WHAT’S HYPE

A Kerchief That Conquers

Hermes celebrates the 500th anniversary of Columbus’ voyage with . . . a scarf. That’s right, a high twill silk scarf featuring the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria goes for $225. But think of it as an investment, says a spokesman from Barneys New York. The South Coast Plaza boutique is the exclusive Orange County source of the French line. “Any Hermes piece of limited production always goes up in value,” he says, “especially the scarves.”

New World Neckwear

Not to be outdone, Tiffany & Co. pays tribute to Columbus’ voyage with a scarf and other commemorative objects of its own. The “Quinto Centenario” collection features contemporary, vibrantly colored designs that appeal to modern art tastes. The styles reflect “a sense of adventure and the spirit of discovery,” says spokeswoman Jo Ellen Qualls. Budget-conscious fashion collectors will appreciate the silk scarf’s price tag: $175 (slightly less than the Paris-house version).

New Traditionalists

Hopi jeweler Don Supplee will make a rare appearance outside Arizona to show his latest collection at Zia Jewelry Co. in San Juan Capistrano on Saturday and Sunday. Says store owner Ron Cohan: “Supplee represents the unique transition from traditional to contemporary Indian art.” That means going for gold instead of silver, and diamonds and opals instead of turquoise. “Anyone who loves Native American art will just flip over it,” adds Cohan.

Treasure Chest

Today’s explorers can travel in style with Louis Vuitton’s all-in-one wardrobe trunks. Hardly changed from the original design in 1854, these mobile closets hang gowns and store shoes and top hats. The cotton canvas-covered cases come in three sizes and sell from $13,100 to $15,200. Ron Michaels of the Rodeo Drive boutique sold three this year. “The majority of them sell to entertainers who are heavy travelers,” he says. That includes Tom Selleck and Tina Turner (who no doubt found a space for her wigs).