The 10 best dressed St. Louisans 2018

The following St. Louisans wield fashion as a form of personal expression, combining styles and designers to tell the world something about who they are.

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Yana Tarasenko

30, Mother of Two and Salon Owner, Aldo Coppola (Novosibirsk, Russia)

What is your style philosophy? I like basic clothes that are easy to match. I prefer to mix luxury and mass-market brands in one outfit—Zara jeans for $20 and Balenciaga boots—and I’m crazy about beautiful shoes!

What is the biggest difference between the way Russian and American women dress? I think American style is more independent and relaxed. Russian women are more inclined to analyze how they look and what other people think about their appearance.

Where is your favorite place to shop? Mostly the Internet, just because I have no time for offline shopping, and there are also some buyers in Europe who provide me with all that rare brand stuff.

Coffee, or tea? Green tea

What is your favorite book? It’s not actually a book; it’s a genre. Now I prefer psychological thrillers and self-development books.

What’s your go-to outfit for attending a St. Louis Blues game? Well, it depends. If I take my boys with me, I’ll choose jeans and sneakers, but if I leave them at home, I can wear high heels.

What is your favorite home décor style? I like eclectic. Minimalism with some bright accents—that’s what my dream house looks like.

What’s your favorite thing about living in St. Louis? It’s a very comfortable town for families with children, and they have the best hockey fans I’ve ever seen!

Knee-high boots, or booties? Knee-high boots.

What is your favorite St. Louis restaurant? I get this question quite often, you know? There are so many places with great cuisine and fantastic atmosphere! I really don’t want to name only one...it is not fair!

Anna Bukhshtaber 

29, Occupational Therapist 

How do you describe your style? Chic but edgy, modern, and fun. I love to try out new patterns, textures, silhouettes, and prints while maintaining elegance and class. I’m ready to rock great headscarves, hats, chunky cropped sweaters, and over-the-knee boots for fall. As a mom of two boys, I find ease in throwing on a great fedora hat and moto jacket.

What about clothes appeals to you? My style is an outward representation of who I am on the inside and how I want my personality to shine through. When I love what I’m wearing, I feel like I can conquer the day with positivity and confidence.

Did you ever consider a career in fashion, or did you become a fashionista later in life? I’ve loved fashion for as long as a can remember. As teenagers, my best friend and I would pool our money so we could buy our favorite new pair of pants and then decide who would get to wear them first. My passion continued into my adult years, and I’ve found opportunities to impact women by styling them and making them feel beautiful.

Who are your favorite designers? I think that clothing from any designer or store can look fabulous as long as it fits well and goes with your own personal style. Shoes, on the other hand, are a totally different subject… I love rocking a good pair of designer shoes, like some amazing Valentino or Christian Louboutin heels. They instantly elevate any look.

Where do you like to shop? I pride myself on being a very savvy shopper. I shop at places that carry an eclectic selection at various price points. Some of my favorites are T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, Dillards, Nordstrom.

Why do you think so many St. Louisans responded to your entry online? I’m humbled and thankful to everyone who voted for me. I’ve been told that my style inspires people and makes them feel like fashion is attainable and can be fun, happy, and relatable.

What is your fashion fantasy? To continue to explore my own style while also styling others and sharing my love of fashion. I would love to continue to help women go through their closets, find their personal styles, and help them feel beautiful.

What’s your favorite article of clothing? This is a tough one... I have two: I love a good jumpsuit. It is easy and instantly pulls together an entire look without having to pair multiple articles of clothing.

The second would be my mom’s fur coat that she wore when she was a young woman in Russia. It’s got the ’80s vibe with big shoulders, but it’s timeless and I love the connection to my mom. I was also born in Russia, so it pulls me to my roots.

If you could own one piece of jewelry, what would it be? My wedding ring and band that represent my husband and two young boys, Bennett and Kai. My family means the world to me.

Can you provide shopping tips for our readers? Always look for clothes that fit your body and inspire your soul. It’s not about brand names but [instead] the confidence you feel wearing the pieces you love. Pair a fun accessory like a hat or necklace to give more style and attitude to your look.

Wesley Bell

43, Democrat, Candidate for St. Louis County Prosecutor 

How do you describe your style? Contemporary classic… There are traditional things that I like, but I try to mix in contemporary styles. You find what you like, and you work them in.

Where do you like to shop? The John Varvatos store in Las Vegas. Nordstrom at The Galleria. They know me there. LaNar Wright [Nordstrom sales associate] will text me: “Hey, there’s this jacket here that I think you’ll like.”

Do you like to shop? If there’s something that I specifically need, then yes, I like to shop, but not to just randomly walk in. I’m a deliberate shopper. Is that how they call it? I’m not a therapeutic shopper like my mom.

At what point in your life did you discover the power of fashion? When I went into private practice. I started being more particular about my presence; it made a difference to clients and colleagues. There’s a perception of success and confidence that comes with your appearance.

What shoes do you wear when you want to be comfortable at work? Porsche Design by Adidas, in black.

What book are you currently reading? Team of Rivals, by Doris [Kearns] Goodwin—I literally just started it. Generally, at night I have to schedule time to get a chapter in.

Which fashion accessory for men do you think is most underappreciated? The pocket square; it adds personality, flavor. Men’s suits are very traditional—a pocket square adds a little spice.

What is your biggest fashion indulgence? Shoes, especially dressy shoes. I love shoes that are versatile and that you can wear dressed up with a suit and also casually.

Cufflinks, or buttons? Cufflinks

If you could have lunch with one fashion designer, who would that be? John Varvatos—he’s my favorite designer. I feel like his suits are made as if just for me. I’ll take them to the tailor and he’ll say he doesn’t know what else to do to them.

What do your clothes say about you? That I’m determined… It goes to the point that I was alluding to earlier: The way you dress gives off a vibe of confidence and competence. You have just one opportunity to make a good first impression. The way you dress can clearly make you stand out. I think your appearance should matter.

Steve Engel

60, Real Estate Agent/Renovator

How do you define your style? I dress more casually than I used to. I don’t dress trendy; I like the classics. I have Levi’s from 30 years ago and leather motorcycle jackets that I love that I bought in England.

What’s a favorite item of clothing that you own? I’d say a pair of vintage Levi’s from the ’50s that I bought on Melrose Avenue in the ’90s. They used to sell a lot of them back then; now they’re hard to find. The way they were made, the cotton was beautiful.

How has your style changed throughout the years? I probably mix things more now: Dress shoes with jeans, a blazer with jeans. I have a suede motorcycle jacket that I’ll wear with something nice. There’s a lot more leeway; it’s part of getting a look that’s individual. I don’t wear ties anymore, or it’s pretty rare that I do.

Where do you like to shop? St. Louis is tough; it’s changed so much. The reality is that my favorite store is Barney's in L.A. I don’t shop there that often, but I do shop there.

How important is fashion in your line of work?It’s important because the impression is important, especially when meeting people for the first time. As things were getting more casual, if I showed up in a tie, it’s, like, “Where are you going?”

What item of clothing will you invest in this fall? Every fall I like to buy a lighter-weight sweater that I can wear under a jacket. I like them form-fitting, warm but comfortable.

What item of clothing have you always wanted but never purchased? A Classic Tourist Trophy jacket, in Burnt Cuero, from Belstaff. It’s an English company, but everything is made in Italy.

What are your hobbies? Renovating homes is a main hobby. I like to ride motorcycles, modify them. And my dog [a Cane Corso]: My dog’s in training for therapy. He has a fierce look, but he’s the opposite. He’s so gentle, and he’s very smart.

What is the most talked-about topic in real estate right now?It’s a very good market for sellers in St. Louis; it’s one of the best sellers’ markets we’ve had in years.

The lack of inventory, too.

Glenda Jehle

Commercial interiors and textiles 

How do you describe your style? Classic and couture.I have creative license to wear fun things to work.

When did you discover the power of fashion? I was in Minneapolis where I volunteered to live for the summer to interact and sell Jack Lenor Larsen and work with the architects and designers in the city.There was a store owner there who asked me, “Would you like to go in the back room with couture fashion?” After trying a few pieces, she said, “You can carry it well. Do you choose to?”

Whose style inspires your own? I appreciate the quote from the street artist Banksy: “There is no original idea.” I find references from all couture inspiration and put it together as my own edition. It’s helpful to have a closet of great things!

If you could go back in time and place to experience the clothes and design of the era, where and when would that be? I love the drama of the Deco era but I still have a suit my mother handmade in 1950, with handmade buttonholes and such class!

What quality do you most appreciate in fabrics and textiles? In other words, what is most important to you? Beautiful weaves and textures. Silk linings against one’s skin. The fit of couture clothing and how it makes one feel is the most important thing to me about fashion.

How has your style changed over the years? It probably hasn’t changed that much over the years. I have never “carried” trendy things well, and I’m always best to stick to classic looks. I don’t think one can ever miss with Chanel!

What is the most underused accessory for women? A great Chanel belt.

What one item will you buy this fall/winter season? Always a great pair of boots.

What fashion trend perplexes you? Anything highly trendy.

Donnal Chung 

60 Hairstylist, Donnal’s

How do you describe your style? I want to be myself—that’s the most important thing. A lot about how I dress depends on the situation and the environment, but I always love to challenge myself.

What inspires your daily clothing choices? My job as a designer. I dress to make people feel trust in me. I dress to give confidence to people who are looking at me for inspiration. I want to make people feel comfortable.

Yes or no on jewelry for men? Very interesting question. Jewelry can be hats, glasses, a mustache, your hairstyle, a bracelet, a ring...anything that represents the person and inspires people to look. Personally, I love Cartier—very classy and simple but very deep in its art and design. That kind of design is so special. You look at it and you never tire of it. Fifty years later, it’s still beautiful.

If you could bring back one fashion trend, what would it be? The 1940s and ’50s. People were elegant, classy, and I feel like they were living the life. The hats, the glasses, the umbrella, the suitcase, shiny shoes, and bowtie. That’s style, it’s just beautiful. I miss that.

How do you dress for a special night out? It depends. I like to match the environment. If I’m going out on a ride, I dress like a biker; if it’s an important wedding I dress in a tux. Sometimes it’s a night out with my wife, so I dress fashionably.

What’s the secret to great-looking hair? Be yourself. Don’t copy anybody. My job is not to try to change people but [instead] to help them find who they are.

Short hair, or long hair?It’s about the individual: The hair is matched to the person. That involves determining the personality, the profession, the body shape, and hair material. Hair design is like sculpture. Every human is their own unique sculpture.

Who, in your opinion, is the best-dressed guy in show business?John Travolta… When I was a teen, he was one of my role models. He’s so special. He’s not just an actor; he carries himself in many different ways.

Who is your favorite designer, living or dead?Gianni Versace—he designed for style and quality, and he wasn’t afraid to explore the art of fashion.

Simone Yael

28, Actress, Designer/Creator 

How do you define your style? For me it’s about a natural bohemian, sometimes vintage look. It’s fun and it changes based on my mood. My background is theater, so the things I wear help me tell a story. And I’m doing all of this with a serious consideration to minimalism, doing my part for the environment. I grew up thrifting and have a knack for it. I developed an eye for clothes that I knew would last.

What’s your favorite accessory? My gold necklace. I’m also into gold doorknocker earrings—big and brassy. There’s a strong nod to ’90s and ’80s fashion. I think Harlem—edgy and street before it was in.

Who’s your fashion inspiration? It’s not a particular person; I’m influenced by women in the past. Women of color, with braids and stilettos and all the flavor that comes with being a woman who’s willing to take risks with her hairstyle and wardrobe.

Short or long nails? It depends on my mood. Am I Rihanna, or Michelle Obama? Short is easier to work with, especially if I’m sewing. I had them long for a year and a half. I like that but I do a lot with my hands, and my nails need to be shorter. Right now, they’re short and square, with freeform paint to look like art.

What fashion titles do you read? Vogue, Essence, Instagram helps me a lot. I fall in love with individuals and their perspective on fashion: Who are they? What does their fashion say about their artistry? That’s what I’m concerned with.

What do you like to wear for a nightout with friends? Recently I’ve been obsessed with my figure. I’ve never been a regular size, always a fuller size. Before now, I didn’t realize the power of my femininity and that it’s important for me to embrace that side of myself, so I’ve been into high-waisted jeans, a black shirt, and shades: simple, low-key, thinking that I’m Rihanna and going out to dinner with my posse.

What do you think St. Louis needs to thrive? We need to bridge where the funds are and where the innovation is—outside of internships. That’s not sustainable. We need greater advocacy, “Hey, I’m a young creator, and I need more space to create. I need money and the willingness of people to offer mentorship and guidance.”

When was the last time you experienced a fashion faux pas: All the time, every season! But I trust where I was in that moment. Well, that’s how I felt, so I accept that for what it was.

What trend would you like to see come back into style? The ’50s: fitted dresses and dress shirts, women in longer skirts. Fashion was soulful and soothing.

Dominic Key

26, with son Max,15 Months, Manager of Community Engagement, Villa Duchesne and Oak Hill School

Describe your style? My style is traditional with a twist. My wardrobe is full of timeless pieces that never go out of style. I try to accessorize with fabrics and colors. My inspiration comes from my Anglo-Italian heritage; the English and Italians have always known how to dress. They have a way of making their wardrobes both timeless and on point, and I think the key is well-tailored classic pieces.

Were you this well dressed in high school? I went to CBC, where my classmates voted me Best Dressed in senior year. I have a memory, age 4 or 5, on a hot summer day when my mother handed me a sleeveless T-shirt to wear. I refused to put the shirt on and began packing my things with plans to run away from home. I didn’t make it far, but I remember being very upset about my mother’s clothing selection. From then on, I remember putting thought into what I wore.

You work at a school. What advice would you give to students about dressing with style? My advice is to avoid trends and to find your own style. Don’t let what you wear be boring or commonplace. Fashion is an avenue to express your individuality. The way you dress should be an outward expression of your character. It is the first impression anyone has of you, so make it count and let them know who you are.

What piece of clothing will you buy for yourself this season? Monk-strap shoes in black, no brogues. They’re a great business casual shoe for fall and winter.

Whose style do you most admire? Ralph Lauren is one of my favorite designers… always a classic and tailored look but never stale or boring.

Where do you like to shop for your son?Janie & Jack is our favorite store for Max. We have to use great self-restraint when we go there. Max has a good deal of clothing from Carter’s and Oshkosh as well.

What is your favorite look on Max? A fedora. Max is in the 99th percentile for head size, with very little hair and a fair complexion, so what started out as a necessity became a fashion statement. Hats look good on him, and he usually keeps them on. Sarah and I try to make his wardrobe both stylish and functional. He’s always on the go, so his clothes need to be durable.

Why is it important for men to embrace fashion? Too many people, men in particular, care very little about what they wear and put no effort into it. For me, no style is better than another; it all depends on what suits the individual. People who put an effort into their looks—whatever that may be—make a statement not only about who they are but [also] that they’re confident in who they are. The only style that I truly despise is a lack of one.

What current trend befuddles you? The fanny pack, or bum bag, as they call it in England. Some things are better left in the past. This is one of them.

If you could choose a career in fashion, what would it be? I don’t think I’d ever want a job in fashion. I saw The Devil Wears Prada, and it seems like a terrible job, though I am a Meryl Streep fan.

Alex Fisher

54 Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Sherpa

What is your style philosophy? I believe fashion needs to work for you; you shouldn’t work for it. Being authentic and selective is important. Don’t let trends dictate your style. You can always tell [when that’s the case], because a woman looks uncomfortable.

What do your clothes say about you? My sense of style comes from a need to be comfortable in my own skin—and approachable—because that’s how I am and I want my clothes to reflect my personality. I also have an understanding of my body type and my culture, which is reflected in my clothes.

Whose style do you admire? Audrey Hepburn, certainly. I also admire Michelle Obama. I thought her look was so fresh and wonderful and reflective of who I thought she was. She always looked so comfortable in her skin.

What designers do you love to wear?I like classic Boss. I gravitate to Italian designers because they fit my body type. I’ve always liked Theory; it’s understated, with clean lines, and fits me well. I was in love with an Argentine designer, Maria Vazquez; she was fantastic in her heyday. She used a lot of graphic prints that were fresh and sexy but not trashy.

You’re originally from Argentina. How does your heritage influence your look?I t’s a huge influence, even though I’ve been away for a long time. The Argentine style is dictated by European influences: clean long lines, a sense of understatement, strength. I find Argentine women to be really strong. They take on multiple roles and understand themselves very well.

What trend do you hope will never come back into style? Hands down, shoulder pads. I wore them! Then again, I have wide shoulders, so I don’t get it.

What item is a must-have for you this year? I would like a fabulous plaid pantsuit. I want Katharine Hepburn palazzo pants. But I hate shopping with a passion! Part of the reason is that it confuses me. I tend to know what I want, so I don’t go to the store to try to figure that out. When I shop without knowing, I wind up not being successful and I buy something I regret.

Why does fashion matter to you? It matters to me because design matters to me. Fashion is a great designer creating collections based on how women are evolving in their lives and also globally. Fashion gives you a lot of choice. It’s nice to experiment. But there’s a confidence that you can’t make up for just by wearing a stylish piece.

Jamie Kolker

56, Associate Vice Chancellor and University Architect, Washington University in St. Louis

How do you describe your fashion sense? It’s a mix of classic and simple architecture with a dash of color and fun. During the week, it’s J. Crew and Etro and on the weekends Uniqlo.

Your known around campus as a snappy dresser. What about your style, do you think, causes people to take notice? I have a uniform for work—a slim suit with contrasting colors in the shirt and tie. Even when it’s 90 degrees, I stick to this formula. It works for meetings with donors and deans and is supplemented with a neon safety vest and hard hat for walks on the construction site.

Off the rack, or made-to-order suiting? Other than two suits I had custom made a couple of years ago on a trip to Vietnam, my suits are off the rack and usually on sale.

If you hadn’t chosen architecture as a profession, what would you have studied? Although I knew I wanted to be an architect from my first Lego blocks, I could easily have been a graphic designer. I collect Swiss and Scandinavian posters and design magazines from the 1970s—and can pore over their ads and fonts for hours.

Your favorite museum to visit is…The Wolfsonian in Miami Beach, which collects and exhibits decorative arts and tells the story, through modern design, of social, political, and technological changes that have transformed our world.

Who inspires your fashion choices? In the 1970s, my father always had a copy of Brooks Brothers catalogs on his bedside table, and that inspired me to pay careful attention to how individual pieces work together. His uniform during the week was gray suit and tie or blue blazer and chinos, but then on the weekends he was famous for amazing patterned Lilly Pulitzer blazers and pants. I can’t quite pull off his lime green dandelion blazer but wish I could.

What do you do to feel rejuvenated? Walking around any city is my favorite form of entertainment and rejuvenation—experiencing the buildings, parks, and all of the urban vitality.

Where do you travel to when you want to see the world’s best architecture? I’m a sucker for Finnish architecture and will never forget the moment I experienced Alvar Aalto buildings for the first time.