the sole of wit
Slip on this pair of platforms for fall, and it’ll be tough to go back to flats. The extra height adds a certain … presence, and the camo-couture pattern will complement any fall ensemble. Stuart Weitzman Exsling platforms in Autumn Merino, $275. Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314-567-9811, www.neimanmarcus.com
tote that large
Style points for the chunky hardware and gorgeous bittersweet color. Efficiency points for the size and shape. Price points, too—but you can amortize the cost over a lifetime. Chloe bag, $1,585. Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314-567-9811, www.neimanmarcus.com
neck lace
Macramé potholders they’re not. These crocheted necklaces are light as air, with a delicate geometry that sets off any neckline. Two lengths, $45–$48. Play, The Village at Schneithorst’s, 314-280-3687
super studs
Accessories make all the difference. Add this wide leather belt to your sweater and jeans, and you’re set for fall ’06. Belt, $180. Sohaila, 4739 McPherson, 314-367-4000
the skinny
Remember embellished jeans? Forget ‘em. This season’s denim must-have is a pair of skinny jeans. Add this gorgeous silk blouse with slimming black silk belt and some heels, and you’re on your way. Sienna Miller, eat your heart out. Tsubi jeans, $245, and 3.1 Phillip Lim blouse, $284. Splash, Saint Louis Galleria, 314-721-6442, www.gotosplash.com
shades of meaning
Summer may be over, but a slick pair of shades knows no seasonal boundaries. Ray-Ban 4061 sunglasses, $139.95; 4068 sunglasses, $164.95. Sunglass Hut, Saint Louis Galleria, 314-863-2257, www.sunglasshut.com
beneath it all
These souped-up undies from Canadian clothier Ginch Gonch make Underoos look downright boring. Women’s tanks, $32.50, and briefs, $28.50. Beverly’s Hill, 1309 Washington, 314-621-1633, www.123underwear.com. Matching men’s briefs, $27–$31.50. Boxer’s, 1305 Washington, 314-454-0209, www.mensunderwearstore.com
skirting the issue
Add a black T-shirt to this black lace skirt by Fashion Spy for a Sharon Stone Oscar moment—or wear it with its matching top. Bubble skirt, $62, and top, not shown, $69. Paper Dolls, 1021A Washington, 314-241-3655, www.paperdolls-stl.com
tie one on
Want to give the double Windsor a rest? Try a bowtie, but make sure it’s one of these subversive skull-and-crossbones numbers, lest your friends mistake you for Tucker Carlson. Silk bowties, $45 each from J. McLaughlin. The Village at Schneithorst’s, 314-872-1818
must-have of the month
It was only a matter of time before design duo extraordinaire Badgley Mischka came up with a fragrance unusual and compelling enough to complement their clothes. Now they have ... and Mary Kate and Ashley are all about it. Badgley Mischka Fragrance, $42–$225. Exclusively at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314-567-9811, www.neimanmarcus.com
