True Blue

By Betsy Kroll

What more refreshing antidote to the dog days of summer than a cool, confident blue? International Klein Blue--created and so named by French artist Yves Klein in 1957--inspired the palette on dozens of fall runways and has already been worn on the red carpet by trendsetters like Cate Blanchett. For a head-to-toe look, nothing beats MaxMara's easygoing jumpsuit, but for a mere splash of color, look no further than Dior's chunky cage platforms, Valentino's bow clutch or Hermes' Clipper Chrono Plongeur watch. Kartell's Ero/S/is a modern touch for the office. And for the true blue fan, the shade has even migrated to the kitchen, where Viking's deep blue appliances, including the Professional series range and microwave, are the ultimate indulgence.

Viking Professional 36-in.-wide range with 12-in. griddle (from $6,000, vikingrange.com

Valentino python bow clutch ($1,295, at Valentino boutiques or valentino.com

Samsonite Black Label Couture alligator beauty case ($15,360, www.samsoniteblacklabel.com

Dior by John Galliano cage sandal ($1,160, 800-929-3467)

Kartell Ero/S/swivel armchair designed by Philippe Starck ($626, dwr.com

Hermes rubber-and-steel Clipper Chrono Plongeur watch ($3,100, hermes.com