NINA RICCI TAPS PUIG FOR ACCESSORIES PUSH.(Manuel Puig)

Byline: Miles Socha, With contributions from Jennifer Weil

PARIS - Signaling big plans for Nina Ricci and a new strategic thrust for the Puig Beauty and Fashion Group, Manuel Puig has been named president of Nina Ricci and charged with launching the French brand into the lucrative accessories business.

"We have all the ingredients to play in the luxury goods arena," Puig told WWD. "I see tremendous potential."

Puig, who has more than 20 years experience in the fragrance industry, will remain vice president of the Spanish, family-owned firm, which also controls Carolina Herrera. But he said he would relocate to Paris and devote 90 percent of his time …