Clayton, MO February 2026

Love Local

As February arrives, we always feel a gentle tug-of-war in our hearts. On one hand, there’s the temptation to roll our eyes at another commercialized holiday. On the other, there’s something undeniably sweet about having a moment carved out on the calendar to pause and celebrate love in all its forms.

Is it a Valentine’s date out or a cozy night in? A handwritten note or simply showing up with presence and intention? For us, it’s often a little of everything. What matters most isn’t how we celebrate, but that we do, taking the time to remind the people, places and passions around us just how meaningful they are.

That spirit is at the heart of this February edition.

This month, we’re celebrating love through the lens of craftsmanship, culture and elevated experiences right here in our community. From Western style reimagined at Unfringed Midwestern Hat Co , where heritage meets modern design, to Black St. Louis: Living Memory, a powerful and necessary tribute honoring stories that shape our past, present and future. You’ll also discover what true hospitality looks like with a premium Italian dining experience at The RitzCarlton, St. Louis, where every detail is intentional, and indulgence is an art form. For those who love bringing beauty into everyday rituals, we spotlight O’Love Olive Oil in Chesterfield, where premium olive oils transform simple meals into moments worth savoring. And for those women looking for an event to inspire and motivate their souls, don't miss Little Black Book's upcoming BECOME.

February invites us to gather, whether that’s around a table, a fire or a shared story. Loving local isn’t just about where we shop or dine; it’s about appreciating what’s close to us in every sense: the makers, the storytellers, the experiences that enrich our daily lives.

Thank you for welcoming us into your homes and your hearts each month. It’s an honor to share these stories with you.

Here’s to a February filled with intention, connection and love local and beyond.

KELLEY AND GORDON, PUBLISHER AND CO-PUBLISHER

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Gordon Montgomery gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Kelley Lamm | kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Brown Patton, Audra Harrold, Mel Boban, Robin Seaton Jefferson, Stacey Dixson, Kelley Lamm

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

RJ Hartbeck, Sandra Ferkel, Danijela Kandera, Marie White, Carol Green

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

FEBRUARY 2026

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

8: Busta Rhymes performs at Nelly’s Black & White Ball 2025. 9: KMOV-anchor, Damon Arnold and St. Louis-native-supermodel, Madisin Rian pose at Nelly’s Black and White Ball. 10: Jackie Joyner-Kersee receives the 2025 Black and White Ball Legend Award from Nelly 11: Senator Brian Williams at Nelly’s Black & White Ball. 12: Local band Russo & Co. opened 93.7 The Bull’s Santa Jam at Stifel Theatre. 13: Alexandra Kay performed an acoustic set with Rocko Beall at 93.7 The Bull’s Santa Jam. 14: Katie Hingle and Chris Hingle were named 2025 Fall Pickleball Champions at MAC West Clubhouse.

Live the New Town Life

Let Me Help You Call it Home. Where living is an adventure, not just a routine.

New Town St. Charles isn’t just a place to live — it’s an experience. Walkable streets, coastal-inspired architecture, unique neighborhoods, parks, waterfront views, and a true sense of community — it’s where neighbors become friends and everyday life feels intentional.

Whether you’re envisioning morning coffee on a tree-lined sidewalk, family dinners minutes from local shops, or finding a home with character and charm, New Town has something special for everyone. With a range of homes, villas, and townhomes, this neighborhood continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in St. Charles.

But finding the perfect home here isn’t always easy — the best ones move fast.

That’s Where I Come In.

I’m Gordon Montgomery — a St. Louis native and real estate professional with proven expertise in helping buyers navigate today’s competitive market. As a Buyer’s Agent, Relocation Specialist, and community insider, I bring trusted guidance, unmatched service, and strategic thinking to every client relationship.

ELEVATED ITALIAN-INSPIRED

CIBO, ESPRESSOS

Tucked inside the magical Italian restaurant Casa Don Alfonso within The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis is the newly launched Casa Boutique. Offering handcrafted Italian pastries, espresso beverages and takeaway gifts, the new shop has desserts, savory sandwiches and seasonal specialties. Patrons can enjoy the shop's food and drinks on-site at the restaurant or pick them up from this convenient grab-and-go spot.

"We wanted to create a space that feels like home in Southern Italy," explains Mario Iaccarino, partner of Casa Don Alfonso and Italian restaurateur of his family’s two Michelin-star restaurant, Don Alfonso 1890. "From the morning croissant to the afternoon espresso and evening pastry box to-go, the Casa Boutique offers guests a way to experience a day-in-the-life of our family's most cherished traditions."

This location at 100 Carondelet Plaza holds a special fondness with Mario since opening Casa Don Alfonso during March 2021. “After being introduced to The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis, I knew this city was the perfect place to open our first restaurant in the United States,” he recalls.

“Casa Boutique is designed to showcase the same level of craftsmanship that defines our restaurant, just now applied to pastry,” Mario says.

“Every cake, pastry and espresso is made with intention, rooted in Southern Italian technique and uncompromising quality. Our goal is for Casa Boutique to become one of St. Louis’ premier destinations for Italian pastry, whether you’re stopping for a morning espresso or selecting a cake for any occasion.”

In addition to daily pastry offerings, the Casa Boutique team introduced a Whole Cake Collection, featuring a rotating selection of handcrafted cakes designed for all occasions and gifting, available by pre-order with 72 hours’ notice.

Mario shares he long felt destined for the world of hospitality while growing up in Southern Italy along the Sorrento Coast. He says he spent many days at his family’s restaurant, Don Alfonso 1890, and around his grandmother Titina’s dinner table enjoying four generations of hard work and well-loved recipes. He followed his calling for hospitality, beginning his professional career in London and then France before continuing his studies at Geneva Hotel School.

“Don Alfonso 1890 is the ‘flagship’ location, but Casa Don Alfonso is the ‘home.’ We share the traditional recipes passed down in our family, and give guests a taste of the dishes that we grew up eating and creating special memories for us," he adds.

CASA BOUTIQUE MENU DETAILS:

• Espresso Bar: The espresso bar anchors the boutique, serving classic Italian drinks such as double espresso, cappuccino, latte and mocha, each finished with an almond biscotti for a distinctly Italian touch.

• Breakfast and Savory Offerings: Morning and daytime options include freshly baked croissants, muffins, yogurt parfaits, chia pudding and savory items such as Tuna Croissant Sandwiches, Smoked Chicken Wraps, Roast Beef Sandwiches and a Sorrento Veggie Sandwich with grilled vegetables, mozzarella and lemon aioli.

• Pastries and Desserts: Guests can enjoy classic Italian pastries such as Tiramisù Classico, Neapolitan Cannoli, Pistachio Éclairs, Hazelnut

Praline Tarts, Black Forest Cake and artisan chocolate bonbons in flavors like black currant balsamic, salted caramel, tiramisù and lemon.

• Neapolitan-Style Pizza (takeaway and casual dining): This curated selection includes Margherita, Parma Ham, ’Nduja from Calabria, Quattro Formaggi and the house Midnight Pizza with Neapolitan ragù and dried ricotta. All pizzas are made with organic sourdough proofed for 48 hours, staying true to Southern Italian tradition.

• Whole Cakes: This collection includes elegant, celebration-worthy cakes such as Cassata Siciliana, Pastiera Napoletana, Baba Napoletano al Rum, Berry Bliss, Golden Caramel Crunch and Marnier Elegance.

Casa Boutique is open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sundays and Mondays, and from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tuesdays through Saturdays. Breakfast is available from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by an all-day menu available from 10 a.m. to close.

"In my family, there's a story and a memory behind each dish,” Mario says. "We're delighted to share that experience with our guests."

314.719.1496

CasaDonAlfonsoStLouis.com

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LITTLE Black BOOK:

Angel Magasano Connects, Educates, Supports Women In Business And Leadership

Professional women in the St. Louis region likely have heard of Angel Magasano, the founder and CEO of Little Black Book (LBB): Women in Business. The corporate professional, turned stay-athome mom, turned cake boss entrepreneur, community cheerleader and powerhouse promoter of women has dedicated her career to empowering women in a myriad of ways.

A professional women’s organization dedicated to connecting, educating and supporting women in business and leadership, LBB also gained notoriety since its inception in 2012 by making a huge local impact through service and philanthropy. Most notably, LBB has for more than a decade led the charge in St. Charles County for the Marine Corp Reserve Toys for Tots, collecting and giving hundreds of thousands of toys to kids in need. Even as Angel stepped back from the effort during 2025 for the first time in years, the organization still gave some 20,000 toys to the St. Louis distribution center of Toys for Tots.

Angel instigates. She motivates. She facilitates. And few do it all with the energy and pleasant confidence that she does. For the fifth year running, she and LBB will host BECOME 2026: Bold & Creative, as a two-day women’s inspirational summit where participants connect with successful female professionals, gain insight and inspiration from their journeys and witness the transformative power of women supporting women.

Dubbed the “Women’s Day of Inspiration,” the conference will be held at the Renaissance Hotel in St. Louis, March 12-13, 2026. It will assemble visionary women, dynamic speakers and immersive

workshops designed to help women grow personally and professionally. Attendees will enjoy inspiring keynote speakers, interactive brand labs, curated networking and special events, including the BECOME Boutique and Book Fair.

“At Little Black Book, we're more than a network,” says Angel. “We're a sisterhood of like-minded women dedicated to personal and professional development and community service. Our mission is to foster connections, provide self-development opportunities and create a meaningful impact within our communities.”

The LBB’s membership spans both Missouri and Illinois residents, and provides a platform for meaningful engagement and support among professional women. Its members have contributed over $1 million to local nonprofit organizations since 2012.

After leaving her job in the corporate world to stay home with her children, she says she was inspired by a cake decorating class she took, as well as "Cake Boss" Buddy Valastro and renowned pastry chef, Duff Goldman of Food Network's Ace of Cakes. “I remembered how fun that class was, and I thought I was just going to build a big celebration for my kids.”

But by the end of the year, Angel had built 400-plus multitiered cakes and a small business to boot.

Originally spurred on by a call from a friend asking her to build a cake for her child, Angel was off and running. “But I didn’t know how to get it out of my kitchen,” she says. “I didn’t know anything about running the business. That propelled me forward to start building a business, to be taken seriously at that venture.”

Angel Magasano says “making a difference” made Little Black Book a “leadership group in the community.”

Before long, Angel says she found herself “communing and networking with others in my space, stay-at-home moms who wanted the same thing.” And Little Black Book: Women in Business was born along with its members’ willingness to do something for others.

“That’s when we really picked up steam, when we started making a difference in the community. That made us a leadership group in the community,” Angel says. With that steam came the confidence she needed to get out of her comfort zone and walk into, among other things, the mayor’s office door and local schools to ask for their support. Angel says StreetScape Magazine publisher, the late Thomas Hannegan, was the first to see hers and LBB’s potential. “Tom Hannegan was my first real, bonafide, community partner who valued what I was doing. He was very instrumental.”

In 2023, Angel partnered with novelist, Shelly Snow-Pordea, to create Little Black Book Publishing, a creative outlet for amplifying women’s voices and turning their ideas into published works. Whether it be through high-content, including publishing autobiographies, biographies, novels, self-development, cookbooks, travel guides and professional development, or medium-content publishing, such as journals, coloring books, activity workbooks and puzzle books, Little Black Book Publishing assists writers in every facet of idea generation, writing and publishing. It provides author support through author coaching, ghostwriting, proofreading and content editing; marketing and launch and promotional strategies to help a book reach its audience. Guided publishing allows clients to get support for their brand while keeping full ownership and royalties for their work.

Angel says, “every woman’s story deserves to be heard. Whether it’s a novel that captivates, a memoir that moves or a guide that empowers, we provide the platform and support to bring their words to life.” And LBB Publishing just signed its first national client.

“We’re more than a network,” says Angel Magasano, founder and CEO of Little Black Book.

“We’re a sisterhood of likeminded women dedicated to personal and professional development and community service.”

Little Black Book empowers women to lead LBB chapters in their local municipalities, and collaborates with local businesses and service organizations. Each chapter offers monthly programming open to the public, designed to connect, educate, inspire and empower.

The LBB organization also launched Onyx Network in 2025, a private application-based group that Angel says is a “mastermind network” whose purpose is to help a network of women who run businesses that generate $250,000 to $5 million in revenue. “People need someone to help them troubleshoot challenges and listen to their aspirations,” she says.

Still, cheerleading is what Angel does best. “Watching someone realize their dream is joyful for me,” Angel says. “That’s my purpose, my strength and gift to cheer others on in an authentic and meaningful way, recognizing what their strengths are and helping them pull it out of themselves, to be inspired toward their next thing. I feel accomplished if I'm successful when I have watched or helped out. That’s where my joy lives.”

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Black St. Louis: Living Memory

In Honor Of Black History Month, Explore The History, Resilience And Cultural Legacy Through The People And Places That Shape St. Louis

ARTICLE BY STACEY DIXSON, ED.D.

St. Louis occupies a singular position in the historical landscape of Black America. Situated at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, the city has long functioned as both a literal and symbolic borderland between North and South, promise and exclusion. The history of Black St. Louis is not peripheral to the city’s story; it is foundational, shaping its legal, cultural and civic identity from the 18th century to the present.

From its early years, St. Louis has thrived due to the contributions of Black residents, whose labor and community leadership helped build the city’s economy and its cultural institutions. These contributions continue to be vital to the city’s character and success today.

Few episodes better illustrate St. Louis’ national significance than Dred Scott v. Sanford, a historic court case culminating in one of the most consequential Supreme Court rulings in American jurisprudence. Today, the Old Courthouse stands as a site of reflection, inviting visitors to honor those who challenged the injustices of the legal system.

Resistance and resilience always have been central to Black history in St. Louis. One example is the story of Mary Meachum, a free Black woman who organized an attempt to ferry people across the Mississippi River to freedom in 1855. The Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing commemorates the work of Black leaders whose actions continue to inspire the city’s moral and political landscape.

The preservation of Black memory continues through historic sites and cultural institutions across the region. Greenwood Cemetery, established in the 19th century as a burial ground for African Americans, bears witness to generations of Black educators, activists, veterans and artists. Museums such as the Griot Museum of Black History and Culture and the George B. Vashon Museum provide essential education about Black History in St. Louis.

Cultural expression has been a defining force in Black St. Louis. The city’s contributions to American music, from ragtime innovator Scott Joplin to the lasting influence of the blues, highlight the centrality of Black artistry to national culture. Institutions such as the National Blues Museum and the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site preserve these legacies, while contemporary

public art and the work of The Black Rep continue to explore identity, memory and justice through creative expression.

To engage with Black history in St. Louis is to interact with American democracy itself. These places and stories do not offer a simple narrative of progress, but instead invite sustained reflection on resilience, responsibility and community. In honoring Black history, St. Louis acknowledges not only its past but its ongoing obligation to preserve truth, amplify voices and reckon honestly with the forces that continue to shape the city’s collective life.

Black civic leadership has played a critical role in shaping St. Louis’ institutional and intellectual life. From education and entrepreneurship to journalism, law and faith-based organizing, Black residents have established enduring networks that foster opportunity and collective advancement. Historically, Black churches, schools and mutual aid organizations function as centers of learning, cultural production and civic engagement, laying the groundwork for advancements in public policy, business development and the arts. These institutions not only support individual achievement but also articulate broader visions of equity, self-determination and community responsibility that continue to influence the city’s social fabric.

High

Grandparent

Child

Maintenance

O’LOVE Store’s Speciality Oils, Vinegars Delight Senses And Elevate Meals Into Gourmet Experiences

PREMIUM OLIVE OIL, PLUS

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROL GREEN

Olive oil has long been considered sacred worldwide. At the new O’LOVE store in the heart of Chesterfield, every drop of the finest olive oil and every splash of aged balsamic vinegar tells an intriguing story. Founders Heather and Bill Peplaw assure this boutique destination is perfect for culinary enthusiasts, flavor adventurers and heart-healthy seekers.

"We believe in the magic that happens when quality olive oils and vinegars come together to enhance meals, inspire creativity and bring families back to the table, just like in days past. Olive oils are both a culinary treasure and health elixir.

Whether drizzled over salads, used for dipping warm bread or finishing a gourmet dish, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a scientifically backed superfood," says Heather.

"From the sun-kissed groves of the Mediterranean to artisan-crafted recipes, our products embody tradition, excellence and extraordinary taste," Bill further explains.

Oils sold at O’LOVE come from a large variety of countries, including Italy, Chile, Portugal, Spain, Peru and Greece. Heather says the store's collection is sourced through trusted relationships with olive growers and artisan producers, carefully sourcing oils and vinegars from producers who share the passion for quality, sustainability and flavor, from grove to table. Then Heather selects the products she and Bill believe will best match with customers' expectations.

"In the store, we post each un-infused EVOO's tasting notes, country of origin, the crush date and chemistry," says Heather.

Specifically, the store owners offer exceptional EVOOs, fused/infused olive oils, balsamic vinegars, charcuterie boards, serving pieces for effortless entertaining and thoughtful food gift sets.

Gourmet treasures from around the globe available at this independent store prompt customers to fall in love with flavor all over again. She says, "Beyond our signature offerings, we curate a unique selection of gourmet salts, spices, handpicked kitchen tools, elegant dipping sets inspired by olive oil’s natural benefits and

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pantry staples to elevate kitchens. Every item reflects our dedication to quality and craftsmanship."

Heather shares a few overall tips about how to select the best olive oil: Look for extra virgin oils to guarantee purity, no refinement and high nutrient content. Check harvest dates because the fresher, the better. Opt for dark bottles, as dark glass helps preserve freshness. Taste before buying because a good EVOO should balance fruitiness, bitterness and a peppery finish.

While supplies last, one limited-quantity product at the store is Lentisca olive oil, a rare, intensely robust, high-phenolic Portuguese EVOO. Heather says phenolic olive oil is a high-quality EVOO packed with beneficial plant compounds, known as polyphenols, such as hydroxytyrosol and oleocanthal, giving it strong antioxidant/anti-inflammatory power and a distinctive peppery taste while protecting it from oxidation. These oils often are harvested early for peak levels, and used as a health supplement (a tablespoon daily) or for cooking.

The higher the polyphenol content, the stronger and more complex the taste, Heather states. "PPM in olive oil refers to the polyphenols measured in parts per million. A typical EVOO from a grocery store ranges from 72-95 ppm, while Lentisca is 924 ppm."

She says some people drink olive oils for health reasons, adding them to coffee, juices, smoothies or other beverages. She adds people are quite surprised that balsamic vinegars even balance out certain alcoholic cocktails.

After opening the store on National Olive Oil Day on Sept. 30, 2025, at 135 Chesterfield Towne Center, the Peplaws nurtured what quickly became known as shopping experiences that celebrate quality, craftsmanship and community. Heather says the most common response from customers so far is that they were told by a previous customer "they had to come in" to see and experience the store's offerings themselves. Additionally, customers often accompany other new customers as shopping buddies and

essentially serve as hostesses or hosts, showing them around the store to point out their favorite items.

"Then they bring us into the conversations to answer questions," she adds. "We provide nine different un-infused EVOO's due to the different properties they possess. We usually explain the differences in fresh oils, particularly when it comes to shelf life. Our oils don't leave a waxy coating in the mouth. Some people literally drink olive oil for health reasons, and it rinses clean because our oils don't include shelf stabilizers like the oils sold in grocery stores."

For Heather, the shop realized a 14-year dream, which began when she visited a local olive oil shop that sparked a new passion. She says she was hired on the spot to work at that shop, then forged her way to becoming an expert on all things olive oil and vinegar.

Now, Heather and Bill highlight the virtues of olive oil and guide people in all of its uses, while dispelling myths about it in the process. A nurse by trade, Heather says she also sees olive oil as an essential ingredient in healthy lifestyles because it aids in digestion and helps repair the intestinal lining. They're happy to share relevant olive oil food recipes.

"It's amazing to see people trying to understand all the tasting notes that we point out. Oils are like wine in that you may need to take another sip to appreciate their true essence. It's surreal to think that we're now part of so many people's diets or meals they're enjoying. It's touched our hearts to be part of this welcoming community," assures Heather.

"We so enjoy being part of everyone's tasting experiences and getting to witness each individual's 'aha' moment. It's simply incredible. Sometimes, it makes me a bit giddy."

Hours of O’LOVE operation:

Tuesdays through Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays and Mondays: closed

636.777.8074

OLoveOil.store

“I like all the oils for various reasons. They all have different personalities. Oftentimes, I feel like they’re my kids,” quips Heather Peplaw, co-owner O’LOVE.

Silent Warning Signs Before A Fall:

The 4 Phases of Balance

By: Dr. Beth Templin

If you’ve noticed that you’re not as steady on your feet as you used to be, it’s easy to brush it off as “just part of getting older.” Maybe you can’t pinpoint when it started, when confidence quietly turned into caution, but now you find yourself thinking twice before walking on uneven ground, climbing stairs, or moving too quickly.

What most people don’t realize is that balance problems don’t usually star t with a fall. They develop in phases, and when you understand those phases, you gain the power to interrupt the process before it leads to injury or loss of independence.

4 Phases of Balance & Falls

1 Pre-Fall This is where balance changes begin. You may notice slower reactions, weaker legs, stiffness, dizziness, or needing to hold onto furniture or walls. Many people ignore this phase because they’re still “ge tting by.”

2. Near-Fall. These are the stumbles, trips, and close calls the moments where you catch yourself just in time. Near-falls are warning signs that your balance systems are struggling to keep up.

3. Fall Landing. If a fall does occur, how you land matters. Poor strength, limited mobility, or slowed reactions increase the risk of serious injury, fractures, or head trauma.

4. Fall Recovery. This phase is o ften overlooked but critically important. Can you get up from the floor? Can you call for help? Difficulty with fall recovery can turn a minor fall into a lifechanging event

The good news? Every one of these phases can be addressed Balance is not “lost forever,” and improvement is possible at any age with the right training.

If you’re unsure where you fall within these phases, or you’ve already had a few close calls, we invite you to schedule a Free In-Home Consultation. Taking action now can help you stay active, independent, and steady on your feet, without waiting for a fall to force the issue. Call (314) 939-1377 to schedule your Free In-Home Consultation.

WESTERN STYLE, Reimagined

Unfringed Midwestern Store Brings

Hat Artistry To St. Charles

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIE WHITE

Walk into Unfringed Midwestern's St. Charles storefront, and guests immediately feel it: that perfect blend of Western heritage and modern artistry, where every hat tells a story and every guest leaves feeling a little more like themselves. Since opening during October 2025 by best friends turned business partners Sarah Dennis and Peery Spoeneman, this Main Street gem and traveling hat bar business has become more than just a shop. Unfringed is a creative sanctuary where hats transform into keepsakes, personalized down to the last detail with burning, branding, hand-dyed bands and leather layers that make each piece truly one-of-a-kind.

Unfringed's traveling hat bar transforms any celebration into an unforgettable experience. "Instead of a simple favor or activity, guests get to design something personal, meaningful and completely their own," these business partners explain. "It becomes an experience that's creative, interactive and full of personality. It encourages conversation, sparks joy and gives guests a keepsake they'll wear long after the celebration ends."

Before the storefront opened, the hat bar experience was their sole endeavor, working directly at celebrations from bachelorette parties, corporate events and girls' nights to gatherings of all kinds. But at every event, the same question kept coming up: "Where's your store? How can we come back and make another hat?"

"That's when we realized Unfringed needed a permanent home," the bestie duo shares. "Our storefront lets guests slow down, get creative and feel the full heart of our brand: authentic, warm, Western-inspired and a touch rebellious. Now anyone can walk in, design something that feels like them, and leave with a piece of the Unfringed story."

"People want hats that feel like keepsakes, that are pieces carrying meaning, memory and craftsmanship," the two explain. "That's exactly what we create."

NEW TO WEARING HATS? UNFRINGED HAS CLIENTS COVERED WITH EXPERT STYLING ADVICE:

• Start with a neutral base like bone, chocolate or black, which slips seamlessly into any wardrobe.

• Coordinate with overall tone rather than matching exact colors; a hat should elevate one's look, not compete with it.

•

•

• And most importantly? Once you put it on, own it. Confidence is the

NOT

A "HAT PERSON"? THINK AGAIN.

"We truly believe there's no such thing as 'not a hat person.' You just haven't met the right hat yet." In the studio, Sarah and Peery help you discover what works with your face shape, personal style, height and even your energy. From crown height to brim width, every detail matters. Once customized with burning, branding or bands that reflect your personality, something magical happens, you see yourself in a whole new way.

"We've made hat believers out of hundreds of hesitant guests. Trust us, your hat is waiting for you!"

CARING FOR YOUR INVESTMENT

A custom hat deserves proper care. When traveling, wear it when possible or pack it carefully, filling the crown with soft clothing and surround the brim with rolled garments. Store it crown-up or on a proper hat hook in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. A light brush occasionally keeps it looking gorgeous for years.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mark calendars for Unfringed's collaboration with Christina White Salon on Feb. 12-13, featuring hair styling and hats from 12-6 p.m. at the Unfringed studio. A portion of proceeds benefits Women's Safe House in St. Louis.

Planning a romantic Valentine's Day? Unfringed will be open Feb. 14 from 12-6 p.m., making it the perfect opportunity to create something special together or surprise someone with a truly personal gift.

2026 Hat Trend Report

The Western world is evolving, and Unfringed has been championing this shift toward personality and artistry from day one. Looking ahead to 2026, Sarah and Peery say the trends lean toward:

• Bold silhouettes: Structured crowns and confident shapes that feel modern while honoring classic Western roots.

• Heavy personalization: Burning, branding, hand-dyed bands, charms and layered leather details.

• Texture mixing: Stacked bands, velvet paired with leather, charms with patina.

• Refined western: Classic rancher shapes elevated with minimal, intentional design.

• Colors: Earth-rooted tones and soft, dusty pastels with Western flair. Deep chocolate and midnight black remain timeless favorites.

• Style: wide brim ranchers, teardrop crowns and transitional felt.

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Love Local Fashion Edition

From Concept to Closet: The Hands and Hearts Behind Local Fashion

Loving local fashion is more than shopping local. It is an act of admiration. It is noticing the care, creativity and collaboration behind a garment, piece of jewelry or pair of shoes. In St. Louis, fashion is personal, shaped by people invested in their craft and community.

Every piece begins with an idea. Designers bring inspiration to life, sketching by hand or shaping it digitally. That vision moves to technical designers and pattern makers like Alison Hoenes, where creativity becomes structure and a precise blueprint takes form. Sample sewers bring garments to life, stitch by careful stitch, while fit models ensure each piece moves beautifully and fits as it should. Fashion at every stage is made with intention, patience and thoughtfulness.

Small-batch factories preserve hands-on craftsmanship and the unique details that make each piece one of a kind. Local photographers, stylists and hair and makeup artists capture the spirit of every creation, while writers, marketers and creative teams give it a voice to be discovered. Fashion shows and runway events produced by companies like Brainchild Events, featuring models from agencies like Mother Model Management,

ARTICLE BY AUDRA HARROLD

“Loving local lives with the wearer. When someone steps into a boutique and chooses a piece...they honor the hands, hearts and stories behind every creation keeping St. Louis fashion alive, celebrated and loved in every step.”

connect designers with buyers who curate collections.

Loving local lives with the wearer. When someone steps into a boutique and chooses a piece like those from The Normal Brand, which grew from one store in Clayton to 11 nationwide, they honor the hands, hearts and stories behind every creation, keeping St. Louis fashion alive, celebrated and loved in every step. Alison Hoenes is a St. Louis–based pattern maker who helps women’s fashion brands turn into well-fitting,

production-ready garments. Translating creative ideas into precise templates, she ensures every garment is cut, constructed and sized accurately. Focused on technical precision, Alison gives designers confidence their clothes reflect their vision, values and quality standards. Learn more at AlisonHoenes.com and on her podcast about the pattern-making process.

Mother Model Management is a globally recognized, St. Louis–based agency with more than 25 years of experience discovering, developing, and managing top modeling talent. Known for a career-long approach, Mother has launched stars like Karlie Kloss and Ashton Kutcher, earning international media attention and placing models on the world’s leading runways, campaigns and magazines. Learn more at MotherModel.com

Brainchild NEXT is a St. Louis–based event production company led by Dwight Carter, dedicated to turning ideas into experiences. With 20 years across fashion, music and live events, Brainchild creates platforms for local talent, and showcases St. Louis’ unique energy. From fashion weeks to design competitions, Dwight creatives vision to fill gaps in the city’s cultural landscape. Learn more at BrainchildSTL.com

The Normal Brand is a St. Louis–based apparel company founded by the three Sansone brothers in 2015 to create comfortable, versatile clothing with elevated style. What began in their parents’ basement grew into a brand known for quality casual wear. In 2019, they opened their first store in Clayton, and now have 11 stores nationwide. Learn more at TheNormalBrand.com

ARTICLE BY KELLEY LAMM

SELF-CARE IS LOVE

ADVICE EDITORIAL: RED LIGHT SAUNA IS A BEAUTIFUL WAY TO SELF-CARE

When we recently welcomed a red light therapy sauna into our home, it wasn’t about adding another wellness trend, it was about creating a moment of pause. In the midst of busy schedules, deadlines and caring for everyone else, we wanted a space that invited us to slow down and invest in ourselves.

Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support the body’s natural healing processes. Unlike harsh treatments or invasive procedures, this therapy works gently, encouraging restoration from the inside out.

I learned inside our cells live mitochondria, the tiny powerhouses responsible for producing energy. I knew we needed some serious energy in this fast-paced world. So I researched more and found when exposed to red and near-infrared light, these mitochondria can increase energy production, improve circulation and support tissue repair. The result? Reduced inflammation, healthier skin, eased muscle tension and a body that feels more supported overall.

While “red light therapy” is the common phrase, the real magic happens within a precise range of wavelengths. Red light typically targets surface-level benefits like skin health and collagen support, while near-infrared light penetrates deeper, reaching muscles and joints. Together, they form the foundation of wholebody wellness.

Having a unit at home has transformed consistency into possibility. It has become a grounding habit, a warm glow at the start or end of the day that signals rest, recovery and intention.

That said, wellness is never one-size-fits-all. We always encourage readers to check with their health care provider to determine whether red light therapy is right for them. And for those who prefer to indulge outside the home, many local wellness studios and spas offer professional red light therapy experiences worth exploring.

In a season centered on love, consider this a reminder: self-care is not indulgent, it’s essential. Whether at home or locally, red light therapy offers a beautiful way to nurture yourself from the inside out.

FEBRUARY 2026

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 14TH

47th Annual Soulard

Mardi Gras

Soulard | 11:00 AM

The Grand Parade theme this year is "Peace, Love, and Mardi Gras," falling right on Valentine's Day. The 2026 Soulard Mardi Gras season runs through Fat Tuesday, Feb. 17. With more than a dozen events over six unforgettable weeks, Soulard Mardi Gras truly has something for everyone to love. For updates and more information, visit STLMardiGras.org.

FEBRUARY 20TH

Third Friday Glass

Blowing Experience

Third Degree Glass Factory | 6:00 PM

On the third Friday of every month from 6-10 p.m., this shop's team hosts glass blowing experiences, demonstrations, private experiences, raffles, exhibits, food  and drinks, and live music. For questions, contact Karyn Williams at 314.467.4527 or karyn@stlglass.com.

FEBRUARY 26TH

Collected: St. Louis

History Brought to Life

Missouri History Museum | 10:00 AM

For more than 150 years, St. Louisans entrusted the Missouri Historical Society with countless objects: photographs, diaries, home movies, clothing, books. Some pieces mark defining moments in the region’s history; others reflect everyday life. Collected, a permanent exhibition at the Missouri History Museum, is St. Louis’ history brought to life, one map, toy, T-shirt and painting at a time.

events

CONTINUED

FEBRUARY 28TH

Harmony STL Foundation's 10th Annual Black And Gold Masquerade Gala

St. Charles Convention Center | 6:00 PM

Join an evening of decadence, purpose and celebration with 501(c)(3) organization Harmony STL. Entertainment is provided by Harmony STL members. The event lasts until 11:30 p.m., and includes a live as well as silent auction; hors d'oeuvres; signature cocktails; a plated meal; mission moments; community awards/grants; plus a DJ-hosted after-party. For tickets or sponsorships, view  HarmonySTLgala.com . For questions, call 314.954.4009.

FEBRUARY 28TH

Dailey

& Vincent Concert

Wildey Theatre | 7:30 PM

Dailey & Vincent is a highly awarded and popular bluegrass duo consisting of Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent. They're known for their tight harmonies and blend of traditional bluegrass, gospel and country music. While Darrin hails from Greentop, Missouri, both men now live in the Nashville area. They've released nine albums. Tickets for this show are $50 each.

FEBRUARY 28TH

Deaf

Culture Trivia Night

Greater St. Louis Association Of The Deaf | 6:00 PM

A night of fun, community and purpose to support friend James Frost on his journey of recovery after a life-saving liver transplant. Every ticket, table and trivia round helps provide essential anti-rejection medication and ongoing care. Tickets: $65. Couples: $100. Silent Auction. Catering will be delivered by Bengelina Hospitality Group.