Wings, the BJC Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Care program, is celebrating its 13th annual Big Bear Brunch Dec. 6 at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac. This year’s co-chairs, Jen Cook and Ali Martin, have planned a variety of fun activities, from cookie decorating and arts and crafts to balloon creations, dancing, face painting and a photo booth. Fredbird, as well as princesses and superheroes, will make a special appearance. There will be a silent auction with themed baskets and a raffle for 12 special Build-A-Bear dolls.

Proceeds from the event benefit Wings, which provides community and home-based clinical, emotional, spiritual, social and practical support and care for children with complex issues, regardless of ability to pay.

So what should young event-goers wear for such a festive kiddie gala? Party attire! Bring out the fancy dresses in velvet, taffeta and satin for the girls and the gentlemanly sweater vests, corduroy or khakis for the boys. Accessories are all the rage: Try big bows in prints and patterns or sparkly embellishments of metallic glitter in silver and gold. Everyone, young and old, should bring out their holiday best. For more information on Wings, visit friendsofwings.org.

WW_The-Row-clutch---Saks.com
The Row, saks.com

[tricks of the trade]
Q: What are some tips for carrying a clutch, especially when balancing a drink and food while shaking hands?

A: If you’re lucky, the clutch will come equipped with an optional shoulder strap. Some styles, like Alexander McQueen, will have a ready-made knuckle handle. For those with neither, hold in the middle with one hand or carry under the arm. You may have to forego a drink and food and just do one at a time.

[Ellen Soule is a public relations and fashion consultant. she is the st. louis regional director for fashion group international.]

Pictured: Shoe from Stuart Weitzman, saks.com