puppy ciao

In the spring, it’s not just young men whose fancy turns to love—their four-legged friends are similarly occupied. How else could one explain the overflowing cages at the Humane Society of Missouri every spring? Now is the time to nab some puppy love or, if gnawed shoes and damp carpets aren’t your thing, some mature dog devotion (the adults are less of a hassle). Humane Society of Missouri, 1201 Macklind, 314-647-8800, hsmo.org.

trail blazers

Sure, these ultra-lightweight running shoes can actually be used to traverse trails, but they’d stay much cleaner challenging the wilds of the Galleria. Sounds like an exercise in fashion. New Balance WR790BC trail-running shoes, $74.95. New Balance St. Louis, 6678 Clayton, 314-646-1574; 11633 Olive, 314-872-2929; brownsnewbalance.com.

top spin

Put a little oomph in your game with a great racket cover. Each bag is lined in gingham and sports a zippered interior pocket. Your opponent might have a better serve, but you’ve got better style. Henry Brown Bags nylon Holloway racket cover, $93.50; embroidered daisy cover, $132. Order through The Initial Design, 25 N. Gore, 314-968-8300, or visit henrybrownbags.com.

awash in white

If you add one special piece to your spring wardrobe, let it be this jewel of embroidery and lace. So many ways to wear it, so little time! It’s a sweet minidress, a hot bikini coverup and a smashing tunic all in one. Wear it with some great skinny jeans, cuffed, on a chilly evening. Cake white tunic, $304; and Salt Works jeans, $192. Lusso, 12A N. Meramec, 314-725-7205, lussohome.com.

 

scrub up

Sassy sayings with a retro look turn these plain towels into conversation pieces June Cleaver would approve of. Locally made Oh! Sudz hand towel, $10.50. Soft Surroundings, 33 The Boulevard, 314-262-4950, softsurroundings.com.

it’s all in the wrist

Tired of sacrificing bling for function? Awe your foursome with your glinting jewels and a sweet birdie. Made by Eureka-based company Sassy Swings, these leather golf gloves feature rings of sterling silver, 14K gold, crystal and hematite, plus beaded bracelets that double as stroke counters. Gloves, $49.99. sassyswings.com.

have neoprene, will travel

Prepare for a posh picnic or a playground pit stop by packing a bag with all of the essentials. Sturdy and stylish, this bag will insulate hot or cold victuals for up to 4 hours, then lie flat when the party’s over. Gourmet Getaway totes, $24.99–$27.99. The Porch, 1700 S. Ninth, 314-436-0282, soulardporch.com.

 

you gotta see the baby

Now bleary-eyed new parents have a tool for dividing the baby tasks without argument. Whose turn is it to change Junior? Let the wheel decide! Dress the darling in a cotton onesie while sketching his or her potential hairdo and get ready for endless (sleepless) fun! New Baby Kit, $42. City Sprouts, 6354 Delmar, 314-726-9611, citysprouts.com.

suddenly i realize …

… how having a little something between lap and laptop can help me (and my computer) keep cool. Lightweight aluminum-and-velour pad provides ergonomic comfort and sleek style for my iBook. iLap, $49.99. Comp USA, 800-266-7872, three area locations, compusa.com.

unmentionables worth a mention

Sumptuous fabric and style add to the overall wearability of these saucy pieces. Layer the top with a tank and jeans by day or wear it with the matching undies at night. Eberjey scoop tie chemise, $80; French brief, $36. Jule, 9757 Clayton, 314-983-9282, juleonline.com.