Lunch in the Lindbergh Room [& the top 5 splurge-worthy picks from Saks Fifth Avenue]

…And the STLFW adventure continues! Check out the pre-party and blogger’s brunch details, too!

I prefer a dash of tradition thrown into almost every aspect of life. It breaks my heart when brands like Kodak or Bakers start to sink, so I felt especially elated when we were invited for lunch at department store mainstay, Saks Fifth Avenue. Unlike some other classics I’d love to see stick around, Saks has kept itself up-to-date and fresh without losing touch with what made it famous to begin with. And to me, that’s the perfect combination of fashion and business grace.

Here in St. Louis, our Saks Fifth Avenue is in the Plaza Frontenac mall, which is a stone’s throw into the suburbs. I had been there once or twice, but I never truly looked around– and I think I was missing out. Thankfully, STLFW popped us all on a bus and brought us to the most fashion-forward field trip St. Louis has ever seen.

The fellow bloggers and I were introduced to Marketing Director Tania Beasley-Jolly, who explained that the store was recently remodeled and given a fresh new twist. New, you say? Perhaps a tour? 

With features like the only Chanel make-up counter in the state of Missouri (I KNOW!) and the newly-designed contemporary women’s department, which is now the model for all other Saks locations, the amount of awe-worthiness was insane. And I haven’t even mentioned the clothes…

I was feeling particularly inspired by the textures; while I might be a discount junkie, there is something to be said for the luxurious, long-lasting fabrics you find in a different price bracket. Even the tablescape at our lunch was both modern and classic– ahem, did you notice that spectacular floral arrangement?– which is exactly how I would describe the entirety of the store. Juxtaposition much? Only in the best of ways. Take a peek.

I’ve mentioned before that there are aspects of buying luxury items I love, and can whole-heartily justify; often the item feels better, lasts longer and brings a unique twist mass-market stores lack. Below I’ve rounded up my current Top 5 of Splurge-Worthy Items from Saks Fifth Avenue, as if I didn’t already have enough dream items to blow a paycheck on…

Try to explain why this dress wouldn’t be perfect for almost everything. With tights and boots it’s semi formal; with patent pumps it’s eveningwear. It could be lightened up with accessories to be wedding-ready or toned up (my favorite way) with an abundance of mixed-metals on necklaces and bangles.

I pine for you, DVF Jamie Silk Dress. I long for you. I would rock you in so many ways I shouldn’t list them all. This beauty could be work-appropriate with a silk camisole, then party ready with burnt orange pumps and a bold lip. And while this model looks amazing– and she does!– I think it would flatter curves in the perfect not-too-sexy-but-still-sexy way. I can’t even explain how much I adore the cut and pattern. DVF Jamie Silk Dress, please come be my new best friend.

I’m starting to fall in love with Kate Spade. I know, I know, I’m late to the party, but at least I’m here. Since pattern mixing is my new favorite trend, I could see this beauty going great with a small-printed floral for spring or a deep plum plaid for winter.

Again, Kate, you tease me so. I am a watch-addict (please don’t remind me my phone tells the time, that’s just silly) and refuse to leave the house without one, but I could use a little more playfulness for my weekend watch options. Cheeky yellow and a chevron print? Stop, I don’t think I can handle the sweetness.

I currently carry a medium-large magenta-meets-plum handbag and have been looking for a great neutral to add to the collection. Despite its standard coloring, this purse offers details by the purseful and would be amazing with a weekday suit or a bright party frock.

Needless to say, Saks Fifth Avenue is not outdated, for an older crowd or going anywhere anytime soon. How could I image buying my next splurge item anywhere else? (I’m coming for you, DVF dress! Or at least in my dreeaammmss!)

The Saint Louis Fashion Week Bloggers VIP Getaway adventures continued on. Next stop? Happy hour from new e-store Hazel2Blue and dinner from Canopi.me at downtown favorite Robust Wine Bar. Starting to sound like a choose your own adventure story? It kind of was… Except every outcome brought you to piles upon piles of incredible style. Details soon!