Document:

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                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.96

                              PRODUCTION AGREEMENT

     THIS PRODUCTION AGREEMENT is made and effective as of the fifth day of
October, 2000, by and between TAG MEX, INC., a California corporation (the
"Purchaser"), and TEX TRANSAS, S.A. de C.V., a corporation formed under the laws
of the Republic of Mexico (the "Producer"), with respect to the following facts:

     A.   The Producer is engaged in the production of twill and denim fabric.

     B.   The Purchaser desires to purchase from the Producer, and the Producer
desires to manufacture for the Purchaser, twill fabric on the terms and
conditions contained herein.

     ACCORDINGLY, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and on
the basis of the premises, representations, warranties and agreements contained
herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

     1.   Purchase
          --------

          (a) During the "Term" (as defined below), the Purchaser shall have the
first right, but not the obligation,  to submit to the Producer from time to
time orders for twill or denim fabric in such amounts up to the capacity of the
Producer's facility located at Lote 1 ABC, SN Corridor, Ixtacuixtla Xocoyucan,
Tlaxcala (the "Facility").

          (b) In the event that the Purchaser shall submit orders for delivery
in any week for less than the full capacity of the Facility, the Producer shall
be permitted to sell any remaining fabric manufactured by it at the Facility
during such week to third party purchasers. In no event shall the Purchaser be
liable for any lost profits or other consequential or special damages incurred
by the Producer as the result of the Purchaser's failure to purchase all or any
fabric or other product from the Producer. In no event shall the Purchaser be
entitled to participate in any profit realized by the Producer from any product
sold by the Producer to a third party as provided in this Section 1(b).

     2.   Production Commitment.  The Producer shall accept each purchase order
          ---------------------
submitted by the Purchaser in accordance with Section 1(a).

     3.   Purchase Orders.
          ---------------

          (a) The Purchaser shall order products from the Producer by delivery
to the Producer of a written purchase order (a "Purchase Order") in the form
attached hereto as Exhibit A, as the same may be amended by the Purchaser from
                   ---------
time to time, which purchase order shall set forth the amount of twill fabric to
be manufactured, the specifications therefor, the date on which such fabric
shall be delivered, the place to which such fabric shall be delivered, the
methods of packaging and shipping such fabric and such other matters pertaining
to the manufacture of the fabric by the Producer and the purchase thereof by the
Purchaser as the Purchaser shall deem to be necessary or appropriate. In the
event of any conflict between a Purchase Order and any document provided by the
Purchaser in connection therewith (including, but not limited to, any
confirmation or invoice), the terms of the Purchase Order shall prevail.

          (b) A Purchase Order shall be deemed to have been accepted by the
Producer unless expressly rejected by the Producer within forty-eight (48) hours
after the receipt thereof. Any such rejection shall be in writing and shall
specify in reasonable detail the grounds

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therefor. The Producer shall have the right to reject a Purchase Order if, but
only if, the terms and conditions of such Purchase Order fail to comply with the
express requirements of this Agreement.

          (c) The Purchaser shall have the right to cancel or amend all or any
portion of a Purchase Order at any time prior to the date that the Producer
shall have commenced weaving fabric in connection with such portion of the
Purchase Order. There shall be no cost or expense incurred by the Purchaser in
connection with any such cancellation or amendment. Any such amendment shall be
deemed to have been accepted by the Producer unless expressly rejected by the
Producer within forty-eight (48) hours after receipt thereof in the manner and
for the reasons set forth in Section 3(b).

          (d) A Purchase Order shall not require delivery in less than twenty-
one (21) days after delivery thereof by the Purchaser to the Producer without
he Producer's prior written consent.

     4.   Quality Control.
          ---------------

          (a) The Producer shall manufacture all products in a good, uniform and
workmanlike manner and strictly in accordance with the specifications set forth
in each Purchase Order and any samples provided by the Purchaser.

          (b) The Producer shall inspect each unit of product before delivery.
Such inspection shall be made in accordance with such inspection standards as
may be designated by the Purchaser from time to time and written reports of the
results of such inspection, in such form as may be designated by the Purchaser
from time to time, shall be delivered to the Purchaser on or before the delivery
of such products.

          (c) The Purchaser shall have the right, but not the obligation, to
have one or more quality assurance or other representatives present at the
Producer's manufacturing facilities from time to time during the Term on a full-
time or part-time basis to observe the production of products and the Producer's
compliance with the terms of this Agreement. Such inspections shall not be
deemed to constitute or evidence the acceptance by the Purchaser of such
products.

     5.   Manufacture of Products.
          -----------------------

          (a) The rights granted to the Producer in this Agreement are personal
to the Producer and the Producer shall not sell, assign, sublicense, transfer,
convey, create any interest in or otherwise dispose of, or hypothecate,
mortgage, use as collateral, pledge or otherwise borrower against, any such
rights, or assign or subcontract any portion of the manufacture of any products
to any other person, without the prior written consent of the Purchaser in each
instance, which consent may be withheld by the Purchaser in its sole and
absolute discretion. Any attempt by the Producer to do so shall be null and void
and (in addition to all other remedies available to the Producer at law or
equity or under this Agreement) shall entitle the Purchaser (i) to terminate the
Producer's rights under Section 1(a) or (ii) to reject any or all products
manufactured, in whole or in part, by any such person. A "Change in Control" (as
defined below) of the Producer or any permitted subcontractor shall be deemed to
be an attempt to transfer the rights granted to the Producer in Section 1(a) in
violation of this Section 5(a). Approval by the Producer of any action otherwise
prohibited by this Section 5(a) shall not release the Producer of any of its
obligations under this Agreement.

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          (b)  Any consent by the Purchaser to the manufacture of any products
by any person other than the Producer shall be expressly subject to the
following conditions.

            (i)   The Producer shall supervise all aspects of the manufacturing
                  performed by such person;

            (ii)  The Producer shall cause such person to observe strictly all
                  provisions of this Agreement applicable to the Producer as
                  fully as though such person had been a party hereto; and

            (iii) The Producer shall remain fully responsible for all products
                  manufactured by such person as fully as though they had been
                  manufactured by the Producer.

          (c)  All products manufactured by the Producer shall comply strictly
with all applicable laws, rules, regulations, permits, orders and safety
standards of all federal, state, local and foreign governmental authorities.

          (d)  The Producer shall obtain, at its sole cost and expense, any
certification, approval or permit required in connection with the manufacture of
the products and the performance of its obligations hereunder.

          (e)  The term "Change in Control" shall mean the occurrence of any of
the following events: (i) any person, together with all affiliates and
associates of such person (other than the shareholders of the Producer on the
date hereof), shall become the beneficial owner of fifty percent (50%) or more
of the voting power of the Producer or (ii) any person, together with all
affiliates and associates of such person (other than the shareholders of the
Producer on the date hereof), shall obtain the power, directly or indirectly, to
direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of the Producer,
whether through the ownership of voting securities or by contract or otherwise,
or (iii) the sale by the Producer of all or any substantial portion of its
assets to a single person.

     6.   Purchase Price.
          --------------

          (a)  From time to time during the Term, the Purchaser and the Producer
shall use their best efforts in good faith to mutually establish purchase prices
for each type of fabric subject to this Agreement.

          (b)  All invoices issued by the Producer under this Agreement shall be
paid by the Purchaser within thirty (30) days after delivery of the products
relating thereto.

          (c)  The Producer shall comply with all applicable laws in performing
its obligations hereunder, including, but not limited to, any applicable
federal, state, local or foreign laws, rules or regulations relating to
invoicing the purchase of fabric or to the payment or withholding of taxes.

     7.   Term.
          ----

          (a)  Unless sooner terminated in accordance with Section 7(b), the
term (the "Term") of the parties' respective rights and duties under Sections 1
and 2 shall commence on October 5, 2000 and shall end on September 30, 2004.

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          (b)  The Term shall terminate prior to the expiration of its stated
term upon the happening of any of the following events:

            (i)   at the option of either party, if the other party shall fail
                  to perform in any material respect any material term,
                  condition or obligation to be performed by it under this
                  Agreement and either (A) such failure is not cured within ten
                  (10) days after written notice of such failure is given by the
                  terminating party to the defaulting party or (B) the
                  defaulting party shall have commenced during such ten (10) day
                  period, and shall diligently pursue thereafter, all actions
                  reasonably necessary to cure such failure; or

            (ii)  at the option of either party, if the other party shall fail
                  to pay when due any amounts under Section 6, which failure is
                  not cured within ten (10) days of written demand therefor; or

            (iii) at the option of either party, immediately upon written
                  notice, if the other party shall commence a voluntary case or
                  other proceeding seeking liquidation, reorganization or other
                  relief with respect to itself or its debts under any
                  bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar law now or hereafter
                  in effect or seeking the appointment of a trustee, receiver,
                  liquidator, custodian or other similar official for it or any
                  substantial part of its property, or shall consent to any such
                  relief or to the appointment of or taking possession by such
                  official in an involuntary case or other proceeding commenced
                  against it, or shall make a general assignment for the benefit
                  of creditors, or shall fail generally to pay its debts as they
                  become due, or shall take any corporate action to authorize
                  any of the foregoing; or

            (iv)  at the option of either party, immediately upon written
                  notice, if an involuntary case or other proceeding shall be
                  commenced against the other party seeking liquidation,
                  reorganization or other relief with respect to it or its debts
                  under any bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar law now or
                  hereafter in effect or seeking the appointment of a trustee,
                  receiver, liquidator, custodian or other similar official of
                  it or any substantial part of its property, and such
                  involuntary case remains unstayed and in effect for more than
                  sixty (60) days; or

            (v)   at the option of the Purchaser, immediately upon written
                  notice, upon the occurrence of any event set forth in Section
                  5(a); or

            (vi)  at the option of the Purchaser, immediately upon written
                  notice, upon the occurrence of a Change in Control of the
                  Producer.

          (c)  The Producer expressly acknowledges that the Purchaser has not
made any representations as to the possible or expected duration of the rights
granted to the Producer under Section 1(a) or the amount of products to be
purchased by the Purchaser hereunder, and the Producer further expressly
acknowledges that upon the expiration or termination of such rights the
Purchaser shall have no liability to the Producer for expenditures by the
Producer of time, effort or money in connection with the performance of its
obligations under this Agreement.

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          (d)  Upon the termination of the Term for any reason, neither party
shall have any remaining rights, duties or obligations hereunder, except that
(i) any Purchase Order accepted by the Producer before such termination shall be
governed by the terms and conditions herein provided, (ii) each party shall
continue to pay to the other all amounts due hereunder, (iii) the Producer shall
continue to be bound by Section 8 hereof and (iv) each party shall use its
commercially reasonable efforts to effect the orderly termination of the
relationship contemplated by this Agreement.

     8.   Confidential Information.  The Producer acknowledges that (i) it will
          ------------------------
obtain knowledge of confidential information of the Purchaser during the Term,
including, but not limited to, designs and other data and information of a
proprietary nature which is not generally known to the public ("Confidential
Information"), and that (ii) maintenance of the proprietary character of the
Confidential Information is important to the Purchaser and its business
operations.  The Producer shall keep secret all Confidential Information, shall
not use Confidential Information for any purpose other than as expressly
authorized hereunder and shall not disclose Confidential Information to anyone
except to the extent required in performing services hereunder or the
Confidential Information becomes publicly available through no fault of the
Producer.  The Confidential Information shall constitute "trade secrets" within
the meaning of the Uniform Trade Secrets Act contained in California Civil Code
Sections 3426 et seq. and Articles 82 to 86 of the Ley de la Propiedad
              ------
Industrial, and the Purchaser shall receive all of the protections and be
afforded all of the remedies available under such laws.

     9.   Injunctive Relief.  Each party hereby acknowledges and agrees that it
          -----------------
would be difficult to fully compensate the other party for damages resulting
from the breach or threatened breach of any provision of this Agreement and,
accordingly, that each party shall be entitled to temporary and injunctive
relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and
permanent injunctions, to enforce such provisions without the necessity of
proving actual damages or being required to post any bond or undertaking in
connection with any such action.  This provision with respect to injunctive
relief shall not diminish, however, the right of either party to any other
relief or to claim and recover damages.

     10.  Force Majeure.  Except for obligations of payment, neither party
          -------------
hereto shall be liable for non-performance caused by any circumstances beyond
its reasonable control, including, but not limited to, lightning, earthquake,
storm, acts of enemies, sabotage, war, blockade, insurrection, riot, epidemic,
landslide, flood, fire, washout or the order of any court or authority, which
circumstance by the exercise of due diligence the party invoking this Section 10
is unable to prevent or overcome; provided, however, that (i) lack of financial
                                  --------
capacity, strike, lockout or other industrial disturbance and shortage of
necessary labor or materials shall in no event be deemed to be a cause beyond a
party's control and (ii) no party shall be entitled to invoke this Section 10 if
the failure to observe or perform any of the covenants or obligations herein
imposed upon it was caused by such party failing to act in a reasonable and
prudent manner under the circumstances, or failing to remedy the condition with
reasonable diligence, or failing to give notice as soon as possible after
determining that an event of force majeure has occurred and specifying those
covenants or conditions such party will be unable to perform, or was the result
of a knowing or negligent breach by such party of any applicable laws,
regulations, agreements or contracts; provided, further, that in the event of a
                                      --------
delay in the delivery of any products pursuant to this Section 10 for more than
thirty (30) days, the Purchaser shall have the right either to terminate this
Agreement or to cancel that portion of the Purchase Order with respect to which
delivery has been so delayed.

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     11.  Relationship of the Parties.  The relationship between the parties
          ---------------------------
hereto under this Agreement is solely that of purchaser and vendor, and neither
party is or shall be construed to be a partner, joint venturer, employee, agent,
representative, franchisee or participant of or with the other party for any
purpose whatsoever. Neither party shall have any right or authority whatsoever
to assume or to create any obligation or responsibility, express or implied, on
behalf of or in the name of the other party or to bind the other party in any
capacity.

     12.  Waiver.  No failure to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any
          ------
right, power or remedy hereunder shall impair any right, power or remedy which
any party may have, nor shall any such delay be construed as a waiver of any
such rights, powers or remedies or an acquiescence in any breach or default
under this Agreement. The rights and remedies herein specified are cumulative
and not exhaustive of any rights or remedies which any party would have. No
waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall
constitute a waiver of any other provisions hereof (whether or not similar), nor
shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver unless otherwise expressly
provided.

     13.  Insurance.   The Producer shall maintain at its sole expense the
          ---------
following policies of insurance in forms and with coverages that are customary
for persons and entities participating in the manufacture and delivery of fabric
and, unless otherwise agreed to in writing between the parties, with the
following minimum coverages:  (i) comprehensive general liability insurance
coverage with minimum limits of $2,000,000 per claim and $10,000,000 in the
annual aggregate, and (ii) "All risk" property/casualty insurance coverage for
all fabric while in the Producer's possession and while in transportation in the
minimum amount of $5,000,000.  All insurance policies required to be maintained
by the  Producer hereunder shall insure the Producer's manufacturing facilities
and shall name the Purchaser as an additional named insured.  The Producer shall
provide the Purchaser with a certificate of insurance or other written evidence
of the coverage described herein as of the commencement of the Term and as of
the annual renewal of such insurance policies.  The policies shall provide that
insurance coverage may not be canceled or be subject to a reduction of coverage
or other material modification unless at least thirty (30) days' prior written
notice is given to the Purchaser by the insurance carrier.

     14.  Survival of Representations, Warranties and Agreements. All
          ------------------------------------------------------
representations, warranties and agreements made by the parties in this Agreement
(including, but not limited to, statements contained in any exhibit, schedule or
certificate or other instrument delivered by or on behalf of any party hereto or
in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby) shall survive the
consummation of the transaction contemplated hereby notwithstanding any
investigations, inspections, examinations or audits made by or on behalf of any
party.

     15.  Indemnification.
          ---------------

          (a) Each party shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the other
party and its officers, directors, shareholders, employees, affiliates, agents,
successors and assigns, and any person who controls or is deemed to control any
of them, from, against and in respect of any and all payments, damages, claims,
demands, losses, expenses, costs, obligations and liabilities (including, but
not limited to, reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, and the costs of
investigation and preparation) (a "Loss") which, directly or indirectly, arise,
result from or are related to any breach by the Indemnifying party of any of its
representations, warranties, covenants or commitments under this Agreement or
any agreement or instrument delivered pursuant hereto.

          (b) The Producer shall be solely responsible for all costs incurred by
it in its business or operations or the performance of its obligations under
this Agreement, including, but

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not limited to, any tax, environmental, labor, social security, civi l,
mercantile or other cost or liability, and shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless the Purchaser and its officers, directors, shareholders, employees,
affiliates, agents, successors and assigns, and any person who controls or is
deemed to control any of them, from, against and in respect of any Loss which,
directly or indirectly, arises, results from or is related to the Purchaser's
performance or failure to perform any of its obligations under this Agreement.

          (c)  Consummation of the transactions contemplated hereunder shall not
be deemed or construed to be a waiver of any right or remedy of any indemnified
party, nor shall this section or any other provision of this Agreement be deemed
or construed to be a waiver of any ground of defense by it. The indemnifying
party's obligations hereunder shall be in addition to any liability that it or
any other person otherwise may have to the indemnified parties, and shall be
binding upon, and inure to the benefit of its successors and assigns, and shall
inure to the benefit of the heirs, representatives, successors and assigns of
each indemnified party. The obligation to advance or pay promptly on demand all
amounts as they are incurred shall exist irrespective of the ultimate final
judicial determination, and in the event of a dispute about amounts owed, such
amounts shall be advanced as they are incurred pending resolution and final
judicial determination.

     16.  Third-Party Claims.  The indemnified party shall promptly notify the
          ------------------
indemnifying party of the existence of any claim, demand or other matter
involving liabilities to third parties to which the indemnifying party's
indemnification obligations could apply and shall give the indemnifying party a
reasonable opportunity to defend the same at its expense and with counsel of its
own selection (who shall be approved by the indemnified party, which approval
shall not be withheld unreasonably); provided, however, that (i) the indemnified
party shall at all times also have the right to fully participate in the defense
at its own expense, (ii) if, in the reasonable judgment of the indemnified
party, based upon the written advice of counsel, a conflict of interest may
exist between the indemnified party and the indemnifying party, the indemnifying
party shall not have the right to assume such defense on behalf of such
indemnified party, and (iii) the failure to so notify the indemnifying party
shall  not relieve the indemnifying party from any liabilities that it may have
hereunder or otherwise, except to the extent that such failure so to notify the
indemnifying party materially prejudices the rights of the indemnifying party.
If the indemnifying party shall, within a reasonable time after such notice,
fail to defend, the indemnified party shall have the right, but not the
obligation, to undertake the defense of, and to compromise or settle the claim
or other matter on behalf, for the account and at the risk and expense of the
indemnifying party.  The indemnifying party shall not compromise or settle the
claim or other matter for any consideration other than the payment of money
without the prior written consent of the indemnified party.  The indemnified
party shall make available all information and assistance that the indemnifying
party may reasonably request; provided, however, that any associated expenses
                              --------
shall be paid by the indemnifying party as incurred.

     17.  Notices.   Any notice or other communication required or permitted
          -------
hereunder shall be in writing in the English language and shall be deemed to
have been given (i) if personally delivered, when so delivered, (ii) if mailed,
one (1) week after being placed in the United States mail certified, return
receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to the party to whom it is
directed at the address set forth on the signature page hereof or (iii) if given
by telecopier, when such notice or communication is transmitted to the
telecopier number set forth on the signature page hereof and written
confirmation of receipt is received.  Each of the parties shall be entitled to
specify a different address by giving the other parties notice as aforesaid.

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     18.  Entire Agreement.  This Agreement and the schedules and exhibits
          ----------------
hereto (which are incorporated herein by reference) constitute the entire
agreement between the parties hereto pertaining to the subject matter hereof and
supersede all prior agreements, understandings, negotiations and discussions,
whether oral or written, relating to the subject matter of this Agreement. No
supplement, modification, waiver or termination of this Agreement shall be valid
unless executed by the party to be bound thereby. No waiver of any of the
provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any
other provisions hereof (whether or not similar), nor shall such waiver
constitute a continuing waiver, unless otherwise expressly provided.

     19.  Headings.  Section and subsection headings are not to be considered
          --------
part of this Agreement and are included solely for convenience and reference and
in no way define, limit or describe the scope of this Agreement or the intent of
any provisions hereof.

     20.  Successors and Assigns.  The rights and duties of the Producer under
          ----------------------
this Agreement are personal, and the Producer shall not assign or otherwise
transfer any of its rights or delegate any of its duties hereunder (whether
voluntarily or involuntarily) without the prior written consent of the Purchaser
in each instance. Subject to the foregoing, all of the terms, provisions and
obligations of this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and shall be binding
upon the parties hereto and their respective permitted successors and assigns.

     21.  Governing Law.  The validity, construction and interpretation of this
          -------------
Agreement shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of
California applicable to contracts made and to be performed wholly within that
State.

     22.  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two or
          ------------
more counterparts, each one of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which shall constitute one and the same instrument.

     23.  Third Parties.  Nothing in this Agreement, expressed or implied, is
          -------------
intended to confer upon any person other than the parties hereto and their
respective heirs, representatives, successors and assigns any rights or remedies
under or by reason of this Agreement.

     24.  Attorneys' Fees.  In the event any party takes legal action to enforce
          ---------------
any of the terms of this Agreement, the unsuccessful party to such action shall
pay the successful party's expenses (including, but not limited to, reasonable
attorneys' fees and costs) incurred in such action.

     25.  Further Assurances.  Each party hereto shall, from time to time at and
          ------------------
after the date hereof, execute and deliver such instruments, documents and
assurances and take such further actions as the other parties reasonably may
request to carry out the purpose and intent of this Agreement.

     26.  Arbitration.  Any controversy arising out of or relating to this
          -----------
Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby shall be referred to
arbitration before the American Arbitration Association strictly in accordance
with the terms of this Agreement and the substantive law of the State of
California.  The board of arbitrators shall convene at a place mutually
acceptable to the parties in the State of California and, if the place of
arbitration cannot be agreed upon, arbitration shall be conducted in Los
Angeles.  The parties hereto agree to accept the decision of the board of
arbitrators, and judgment upon any award rendered hereunder may be entered in
any court having jurisdiction thereof.  Neither party shall institute a
proceeding hereunder until that party has

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furnished to the other party, by registered mail, at least thirty (30) days
prior written notice of its intent to do so.

     27.  Construction.  This Agreement was reviewed by legal counsel for each
          ------------
party hereto and is the product of informed negotiations between the parties
hereto.  If any part of this Agreement is deemed to be unclear or ambiguous, it
shall be construed as if it were drafted jointly by the parties.  Each party
hereto acknowledges that no party was in a superior bargaining position
regarding the substantive terms of this Agreement.

     28.  Consent to Jurisdiction.  Subject to Section 26, each party hereto, to
          -----------------------
the fullest extent it may effectively do so under applicable law, irrevocably
(i) submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of any court of the State of
California or the United States of America sitting in the City of Los Angeles
over any suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this
Agreement, (ii) waives and agrees not to assert, by way of motion, as a defense
or otherwise, any claim that it is not subject to the jurisdiction of any such
court, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the establishment of
the venue of any such suit, action or proceeding brought in any such court and
any claim that any such suit, action or proceeding brought in any such court has
been brought in an inconvenient forum, (iii) agrees that a final judgment in any
such suit, action or proceeding brought in any such court shall be conclusive
and binding upon such party and may be enforced in the courts of the United
States of America, the State of California or the Republic of Mexico (or any
other courts to the jurisdiction of which such party is or may be subject) by a
suit upon such judgment and (iv) consents to process being served in any such
suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof by United States mail,
registered or certified, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, to CT
Corporation at 818 West Seventh Street, Los Angeles, California 90017 (and each
party hereby irrevocably appoints CT Corporation as its lawful agent to accept
such service of process on behalf of such party).  Each party agrees that such
service (i) shall be deemed in every respect effective service of process upon
such party in any such suit, action or proceeding and (ii) shall, to the fullest
extent permitted by law, be taken and held to be valid personal service upon and
personal delivery to such party.

     29.  Expenses.  Each party shall bear the expenses incurred by it in
          --------
connection with the negotiation, execution and delivery of this Agreement and
the other agreements and instruments contemplated hereby and the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.

     30.  Severable Provisions.  The provisions of this Agreement are severable,
          --------------------
and if any one or more provisions may be determined to be illegal or otherwise
unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions, and any partially
unenforceable provisions to the extent enforceable, shall nevertheless be
binding and enforceable.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be executed
as of the date first set forth above.

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          Purchaser:               TAG MEX, INC.

                                   By  /s/ Gerard Guez
                                       ____________________________
                                       Gerard Guez
                                       Authorized Representative
                                       3151 East Washington Boulevard
                                       Los Angeles, California  90023
                                       Telecopier:  (323) 881-0383

                                   With a copy to:

                                   Production Manager
                                   Twillmex S. de R.L. de C.V.
                                   Telecopier: 52 (238) 4-00-15

          Producer:                TEX TRANSAS, S.A. de C.V.

                                   By  /s/ Kamel Nacif
                                       ______________________________
                                       Kamel Nacif
                                       Authorized Representative
                                       Edgar Allen Poe #231
                                       Col. Polanco, C.P. 11550
                                       Mexico D.F.
                                       Telecopier:  (525) 255-1009

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     1.  ACCEPTANCE.  This purchase order constitutes Buyer's offer to Seller
to purchase the items set forth on the front hereof on the terms and conditions
set forth herein and becomes a binding contract on Buyer and Seller when it is
accepted by Seller either acknowledgment (written or oral) or by commencement of
performance hereunder.

     2.  PRICE.  The price to be charged for each item set forth on the front
hereof shall be the price indicated for such item on the front hereof. If no
price is indicated for an item, the price to be charged for the item shall be
the price that Seller last quoted to or charged Buyer for a comparable item,
whichever is lower. Unless otherwise stated on the front hereof, all deliveries
and prices are F.O.B. to Seller's facility identified on the front hereof and no
extra charges of any kind, including without limitation, charges for taxes,
packing or insurance, shall be charged or otherwise included in the price. If
this purchase order provides that the items are to be delivered F.O.B. to a
location other than Buyer's facility or that Buyer is otherwise to pay shipping
costs for such items, such items shall be prepared for shipment so as to secure
the lowest transportation and insurance rates.

     3.  PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER AND ITEM NUMBER.  The purchase order number and
applicable item number(s) set forth on the font hereof must appear on all
shipments, packing slips, bills of lading, invoices and correspondence relating
to any shipment pursuant to this purchase order.

     4.  INVOICES.  Payment of Seller's invoices shall be subject to adjustment
for any shortage in or rejection by Buyer of any items ordered under any
purchase order. One invoice of each set of invoices submitted must be either the
actual original or plainly marked "Original".

     5.  DELIVERY.  Time is of the essence for this purchase order. If delivery
is not completed within the time specified in this purchase order, Buyer
reserves the right without liability, in addition to its other rights and
remedies (a) to terminate this purchase order by notice effective when received
by Seller as to stated items not yet shipped and (b) to purchase substitute
items elsewhere and charge Seller with any loss incurred (direct and indirect).
Unless authorized in writing by Buyer, Seller shall not deliver the items in
advance of the schedule set forth on the front hereof. Any provision in this
purchase order for delivery of items by installment shall not be construed as
rendering the obligations of Seller severable. Quantities received in excess of
that shown on the front hereof may be returned by Buyer at Seller's risk and
expense. Any excess quantities which Buyer accepts shall be at the prices
applicable to the items ordered. Buyer shall not be liable for failure to take
delivery of any items covered by this purchase order, if such failure is caused
by labor disputes, strikes, war, riots, insurrection, civil commotion, fire,
flood, earthquake, storm or any Act of God or any other cause beyond Buyer's
control.

     6.  INSPECTION.  Notwithstanding prior payment and/or inspection by Buyer,
each item purchased under this purchase order is subject to Buyer's inspection
and approval at Buyer's facility at any time after arrival of such items up to
the actual use by Buyer of such items. Buyer shall have the right, without
liability under this purchase order or otherwise, to reject and refuse
acceptance of items which do not conform in all respects to (a) any instructions
contained in this purchase order; (b) Buyer's specifications; or (c) any of
Seller's warranties, whether such warranties be express or implied. With respect
to any items which do not so conform, Buyer may hold such items for Seller's
instructions at Seller's risk upon notification to Seller or return such items
to Seller at Seller's expense.

     7.  CHANGES.  Buyer reserves the right at any time, by written notice to
Seller, to change any one or more of the following as set forth on the front
hereof: (a) specifications; (b) method of packaging, packing or shipment; and
(c) place and/or time of delivery. If any such change causes an increase or
decrease in the cost of or the time required for the performance under this
purchase

                                      -1-
<PAGE>

order, an equitable adjustment shall be made in the price or delivery schedule,
or both. Any claim for adjustment by Seller shall be deemed waived unless
asserted in writing within thirty (30) days from the receipt by Seller of the
change. Nothing contained in this clause shall relieve Seller from proceeding
without delay in the performance of this purchase order as changed.

     8.  WARRANTIES.  By accepting this purchase order, Seller warrants to Buyer
that the items to be furnished under this purchase order will be (a) in full
compliance with Buyer's specifications; (b) merchantable and fit for the purpose
intended by Buyer; (c) free from any actual or claimed patent, copyright, or
trademark infringement; and (d) free from defects in design. Seller warrants
that Buyer will acquire good and marketable title to the items to be furnished
under this purchase order. The warranties herein contained shall be in addition
to any warranties implied in law or expressly made by Seller other than under
this purchase order and shall survive acceptance and payment by Buyer. The
warranty period is for one year after delivery unless otherwise stated on the
front hereof.

     9.  INDEMNIFICATION.  Seller shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless
Buyer and its officers, agents, servants, representatives and employees from and
against any and all loss (including without limitation, loss of use), liability,
damage, claims, demands, actions, and/or proceedings and all costs and expenses
connected with any of the foregoing (including without limitation, attorneys'
fees) of whatsoever nature which arise or result from or are related to any
breach by Seller or failure by Seller to perform any of its representations,
warranties, commitments, obligations, covenants or conditions under this
purchase order.

     10.  SUBCONTRACTS. Any contract, order or agreement made by Seller with any
other party for furnishing any of the completed or substantially completed items
ordered under this purchase order shall be submitted to Buyer prior to execution
thereof. Buyer shall have the right to disapprove any such subcontract. Buyer's
acquiescence as to any such contract, order or agreement submitted as aforesaid
shall not relieve Seller from any obligations imposed by this purchase order or
impose any responsibility on Buyer for the work to be performed under such
contract, order or agreement.

     11. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW.  Seller shall, in connection with this purchase
order, comply with all relevant provisions of foreign, federal, state and local
laws and regulations.

     12. TERMINATION.  Buyer may, by written notice of default to Seller,
terminate the whole or any part of this purchase order in any one of the
following circumstances: (a) if Seller fails to deliver any items ordered under
this purchase order within the time specified herein; (b) if Seller fails to
perform any of the other provisions of this purchase order or (c) if, in the
sole judgment of Buyer, Seller so fails to make progress as to endanger
performance of this purchase order in accordance with its terms. If Buyer
terminates this purchase order in whole or in part as provided in this
paragraph, Buyer may procure, upon such terms and in such manner as Buyer, in
its sole judgment, may deem appropriate, items similar to those with respect to
which the purchase order is so terminated, and Seller shall be liable to Buyer
for any excess cost for such items; provided, however, that Seller shall
continue the performance of this purchase order to the extent not so terminated.

     13. ATTORNEYS' FEES. If Seller and Buyer are unable to resolve any dispute
arising under this purchase order and any suit or other judicial proceeding is
instituted, the successful party in any such suit or other judicial proceedings
shall be paid promptly by the other party an additional amount equal to the
successful party's reasonable attorneys' fees and costs incurred.

                                      -2-
<PAGE>

     14.  GOVERNING LAWS.  The validity, construction and interpretation of this
purchase order shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of
California applicable to contracts made and to be performed wholly within that
State.

     15.  JURISDICTION.  Seller irrevocably submits to the exclusive
jurisdiction of any court of the State of California or the United States of
America sitting in the City of Los Angeles over any suit, action or proceeding
arising out of or relating to this purchase order. To the fullest extent it may
effectively do so under applicable law, Seller irrevocably waives and agrees not
to assert, by way of motion, as a defense or otherwise, any claim that it is not
subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, any objection that it may now or
hereafter have to the establishment of the venue of any such suit, action or
proceeding brought in any such court and any claim that any such suit, action or
proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum.

     16.  INSURANCE.  Within 30 days after the date hereof, Seller shall provide
Buyer with a copy of Seller's broad form vendor's liability insurance policy and
a certificate from Seller's insurance carrier naming Buyer as an additional
insured under such insurance policy and stating that Buyer shall be given 30
days written notice of cancellation or coverage changes on such insurance
policy.

     17.  ENTIRE AGREEMENT.  This purchase order constitutes the entire
agreement between Buyer and Seller with respect to the purchase of the items set
forth on the front hereof and may not be modified expect by a writing signed by
Buyer. No terms or conditions stated or otherwise imposed by Buyer, whether
before, on or after the date hereof, shall be binding upon Seller, unless
expressly agreed to in writing.

     18.  ASSIGNMENT.  Seller shall not assign nor delegate its performance
under this purchase order without the prior written consent of Buyer, and any
attempted assignment or transfer without such consent is void.

     19.  REMEDIES. The remedies provided herein are cumulative and in addition
to any other remedies in law or equity which may be available. The election of
one or more remedies shall not bar the use of other remedies unless the
circumstances make the remedies incompatible. Waiver by either party of any
default by the other under this purchase order shall not be deemed a waiver by
such party of any other default.

                                      -3-<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.97

                           PLEDGE SECURITY AGREEMENT

PLEDGE SECURITY AGREEMENT EXECUTED ON THE ONE PART BY TARRANT MEXICO S. DE R. L.
DE C.V. REPRESENTED BY MR. GERARD GUEZ (HEREINAFTER REFERRED TO AS "THE
CREDITOR"), AND ON THE OTHER PART BY TRANS TEXTIL INTERNATIONAL, S.A. DE C.V.
REPRESENTED BY MR. JOSE KAMEL NACIF BORGE  (HEREINAFTER REFERRED TO AS "THE
DEBTOR") IN  ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING:

                                R E C I T A L S

WHEREAS, THE DEBTOR is a corporation duly organized and existing under the laws
of the United Mexican States ("Mexico") and represents that it has the legal
capacity to execute this Agreement and that it has obtained the necessary
authorizations for the execution and performance hereof.

WHEREAS, THE DEBTOR recently amended its corporate by-laws in order to change
its corporate name from TEX TRANSAS S.A. DE C.V. to TRANS TEXTIL INTERNATIONAL,
S.A. DE C.V.

WHEREAS, THE CREDITOR is a corporation duly organized and existing under the
laws of Mexico and represents that it has the legal capacity to execute this
Agreement and that it has obtained the necessary authorizations for the
execution and performance hereof.

WHEREAS, THE CREDITOR has sold to THE DEBTOR subject to the terms and conditions
of an Equipment Purchase Agreement executed by THE DEBTOR and THE CREDITOR on
October 5, 2000 (the "Equipment Purchase Agreement") certain equipment
identified and described in Exhibit "A" (the "EQUIPMENT"), which signed by the
parties, is made a part hereof, and that said "EQUIPMENT" is free from any lien,
encumbrance or limitation of ownership. The Equipment Purchase Agreement is
identified and attached herein as Exhibit "B".

WHEREAS, the purchase mentioned in the foregoing paragraph has been or will be
documented by one promissory note for the amount of $45,795,688.00 (Forty five
million seven hundred and ninety five thousand six hundred and eighty eight
dollars 00/100) currency of the United States of America plus interests, issued
by THE DEBTOR to the order of THE CREDITOR, in accordance with the Equipment
Purchase Agreement.  The promissory note mentioned in this paragraph shall be
hereinafter referred to as the "Promissory Note" and a copy of it is identified
and attached herein as Exhibit "C".

WHEREAS, THE DEBTOR is also the owner of 1,724,000 shares of common stock of
Tarrant Apparel Group ("TAG SHARES"), a parent company of THE CREDITOR, and said
shares are
<PAGE>

kept in escrow by Tarrant Apparel Group on behalf of THE CREDITOR to guarantee
previous obligations by THE DEBTOR towards THE CREDITOR and Tarrant Apparel
Group.

WHEREAS, in accordance with the agreement reached between THE DEBTOR and THE
CREDITOR, by means of this Agreement THE DEBTOR wishes to guarantee the prompt
compliance of all debts and obligations (together the "Obligations") assumed
towards THE CREDITOR deriving from the Equipment Purchase Agreement, as well as
to guarantee the prompt payment of the Promissory Note, constituting a pledge on
the EQUIPMENT described in Exhibit "A" hereto and the TAG SHARES referred to
above, which shall be governed by the provisions contained in the following:

                                 C L A U S E S

FIRST.  THE DEBTOR hereby constitutes in favor of THE CREDITOR a pledge on the
EQUIPMENT, which shall guarantee 100% of the Obligations assumed by THE CREDITOR
towards THE DEBTOR pursuant to the Equipment Purchase Agreement and the
Promissory Note.

In addition, THE DEBTOR hereby constitutes in favor of THE CREDITOR a pledge in
second degree on the  TAG SHARES owned by THE DEBTOR which are kept in escrow by
Tarrant Apparel Group.

SECOND.  In accordance with Article 334 paragraph V of the General Law of
Negotiable Instruments and Credit Operations, THE DEBTOR hereby delivers the
EQUIPMENT in custody to THE CREDITOR whom in this moment personally and by his
own right, receives such EQUIPMENT in custody as depositary in terms of article
2516 of the Civil Code for the Federal District, Mexico, and its correlative
article 2136 of the Civil Code of the state of Tlaxacala, Mexico, in the place
of deposit which shall be: Lote 1 ABC, SN, Corredor Industrial, Ixtlacuixtla,
San Diego, Xocoyucan, Tlaxcala.

THE CREDITOR hereby waives the right to receive compensation for the execution
of his duty as depositary and obliges to maintain the EQUIPMENT in good
conditions, in the understanding that THE CREDITOR shall not be responsible for
the deterioration of the EQUIPMENT derived from ordinary daily use.

THE DEBTOR, at its own expense, shall make or cause to be made all necessary
recordings in order for the pledge constituted hereby, to cause full legal
effects.

THE CREDITOR and THE DEBTOR acknowledge agree that the TAG SHARES will remain in
escrow with Tarrant Apparel Group who shall also act as depositary for purposes
of this Agreement.

THIRD. Simultaneously to the execution hereof, THE DEBTOR shall deliver to THE
CREDITOR the invoices and/or certificates evidencing legal title over the
EQUIPMENT, who shall keep them in

                                                                               2
<PAGE>

its possession as depositary together with the EQUIPMENT in accordance with the
second clause of this Agreement.

The corresponding deposit slip shall be issued in the name of THE CREDITOR and
THE CREDITOR shall give a copy of the same to THE DEBTOR in order to comply with
article 337 of the General Law of Negotiable Instruments and Credit Operations.

In addition, Tarrant Apparel Group shall issue a deposit slip to THE DEBTOR with
regard to the TAG SHARES pledged as a result of the Obligations under the
Equipment Purchase Agreement and the Promissory Note.

FOURTH.  THE CREDITOR may request THE DEBTOR to deliver in pledge additional
goods in order to maintain the guarantee of payment of the Obligations granted
in accordance with the Equipment Purchase Agreement and the Promissory Note. In
such event, THE DEBTOR shall grant a pledge on additional goods sufficient to
guarantee the full payment of the Obligations, within a term of five (15)
business days after the date of the request addressed for such purpose in
writing by THE CREDITOR.  The refusal of THE DEBTOR to grant in pledge
additional goods during the above-mentioned period of time shall entitle THE
CREDITOR to sell the EQUIPMENT and the TAG SHARES in accordance with Article 341
of the General Law of Negotiable Instruments and Credit Operations.

For purposes of this Clause, the parties hereto agree that the value of the
EQUIPMENT and the TAG SHARES shall be market value at the time such sale takes
place.

The provision contained in this Clause shall not impair in any manner whatsoever
the rights of THE CREDITOR in accordance with the provisions of Article 340 of
the General Law of Negotiable Instruments and Credit Operations.

FIFTH. Unless otherwise provided in this Agreement, during the term hereof, THE
DEBTOR grants THE CREDITOR the right to use the EQUIPMENT for the exclusive
purpose of the manufacture, distribution, spinning, weaving, dyeing and
finishing of fabric and the cutting, sewing, finishing and distribution of
wearing apparel (the "Purpose").

SIXTH.  The term of this Agreement is subject to fulfillment and completion of
the Obligations under the Equipment Purchase Agreement and Promissory Note.
Therefore, this Agreement will be terminated when all the amounts due under the
referred  Promissory Note as well as the Equipment Purchase Agreement are fully
paid by THE DEBTOR to the satisfaction of THE CREDITOR.

SEVENTH. For everything relating to this Agreement, the parties indicate as
their domiciles the following:

     THE DEBTOR:

                                                                               3
<PAGE>

     3151 East Washington Boulevard
     Los Angeles, California 90023
     USA.
     Telecopier: (323) 881-0383

     THE CREDITOR:

     Edgar Allan Poe No. 231
     Col Polanco, C.P. 11550
     Mexico D.F.
     Telecopier: (525) 255-1009

EIGHTH.  It is expressly agreed that in case THE DEBTOR does not comply with the
Obligations mentioned in the Equipment Purchase Agreement, including payment in
due time of the Promissory Note, THE CREDITOR, at its choice, may exercise the
actions arising from the aforesaid Equipment Purchase Agreement and/or the
Promissory Note, or the actions which may arise from this Agreement, either one
in a successive or joint manner.  In the event of discrepancy between the
Equipment Purchase Agreement mentioned above and this Agreement, the terms of
this Agreement shall prevail only with regard to the pledge of the EQUIPMENT.

NINTH.  For the interpretation of and compliance with this Agreement, both
parties expressly submit themselves to the jurisdiction of the competent courts
in the city of Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, Mexico, or in the city of Los Angeles,
California, United States of America, at the election of THE CREDITOR, waiving
hereby both parties the jurisdiction to which they may be entitled to by reason
of their present or future domiciles.

TENTH. For everything not provided for in this Agreement, the provisions of the
General Law of Negotiable Instruments and Credit Operations shall apply.

ELEVENTH.  No delay or omission by THE CREDITOR to exercise any right under this
Agreement shall impair any such right, nor shall it be construed to be a waiver
thereof. No waiver of any single breach or default under this Agreement shall be
deemed a waiver of any other breach or default. Any waiver, consent or approval
under this Agreement must be in writing to be effective.

TWELFTH.  The illegality or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement
or any instrument or agreement required hereunder shall not in any way affect or
impair the legality or enforceability of the remaining provisions of this
Agreement or any instrument or agreement required hereunder.

THIRTEENTH. If at any time THE CREDITOR sells, assigns, grants participation in,
or otherwise transfers to any person, firm or corporation, all or part of the
indebtedness of THE

                                                                               4
<PAGE>

DEBTOR outstanding under the Equipment Purchase Agreement and the Promissory
Note, in such event, the pledge granted hereunder will also be assigned by THE
CREDITOR. THE DEBTOR hereby acknowledges and agrees that any such disposition
will transfer the pledge to the transferee.

FOURTEENTH.  THE DEBTOR agrees to pay, or reimburse THE CREDITOR for all fees,
duties and expenses, including those of a notary public, incurred in the
delivery of notices, certification of signatures and registration of this
Agreement required for it to have full legal effects.

This Agreement is signed in triplicate, by THE DEBTOR and by THE CREDITOR on
October 5, 2000.  Each party keeps one copy of each version of this Agreement
and another copy shall be delivered to the Public Registry of Commerce for
recording of this Agreement thereat.

          THE DEBTOR                                  THE CREDITOR

   TRANS TEXTIL INTERNATIONAL                 TARRANT MEXICO S. DE R. L. DE C.V
        S.A. DE C.V.

     By:___________________________             By:____________________________
        Authorized Representative                    Authorized Representative

                           DEPOSITARY for TAG SHARES

                             TARRANT APPAREL GROUP

                         By:__________________________
                            Authorized Representative

                                                                               5

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