Three Ways to Wear One Wedge

Finding ways to recreate one piece is an issue we continually tackle, so it makes sense that we would take this same approach with a staple shoe. An absolute must-have for summer, wedges are the most versatile sandal in any wardrobe. And nude? Even better. Leg lengthening and casual, they can be dressed up or down contingent on your day’s plans.

For this particular strappy wedge, we opted for outfits ranging as formal as weddings/business events to as casual as running errands during the day. Often times heel height can intimidate even the most daring fashionistas (even we’ve been guilty of this, finding ourselves, early morning, slipping into flats instead of chunky, statement heels). Wedges are, however, the ultimate segway into high heel mania. Sure, there will be days when adding 3 or 4 inches just isn’t your thing, but considering the option can never hurt. So go on, try these looks with your favorite neutral wedge!

What We Picked: 

Wedges: Sam Edelman

Left: Dress: Sophia Reyes

Middle: Dress: Jack by BB Dakota; Belt: Elegantly Waisted by Karen Zambos

Right: Top: Jack by BB Dakota; Pants: Miss Elfridge

Three Ways to Wear Plenty by Tracy Reese

The white cotton dress, one of our favorite summer staples, has finally arrived. How this piece can be any more than a basic for sunny days and beach escapades can plague even the best of us, so we’ll take it upon ourselves to show you how to wear this dress from day to night and even into the office. This particular cotton creation from Plenty by Tracy Reese is detailed with an intricate, high neckline and outer pockets—the best blend of play and sophistication. The beauty of a white dress with a flattering silhouette is the endless possibilities it provides. We could go on and on about how much we love this refreshing, crisp number, but we’ll just show you instead. 

White dress, denim jacket. We’re not sure this style has ever been entirely in or entirely out, but we think it’s the perfect combo for an effortless day look. The key to keeping this pairing on-trend is through accessorizing. Play with patterns and prints to layer this look with a little edge. We chose a leopard flat and an airy striped scarf, but you can almost do anything with this ensemble; neon, metallic, floral—feel free to explore!

Sometimes a cotton dress (especially in white) can be hard to dress up, but with the right cut, it can actually be quite chic. The high neckline on this Plenty shift is what really seems to give this piece a polished appearance. As always, color is this look’s biggest ally. We enjoy mixing cool tones like mints with bolder blues. For that reason, we’ve chosen a cerulean trench with a deep neckline and cinched waist paired with pastel wedges. The vintage necklace ties the look together, adding just the right amount of refinement.

Our final outfit is more for the working woman in a creative field. We couldn’t complete this post without demonstrating how you can successfully pair this dainty piece with a blazer. The trick to doing this well is by choosing a less formal fabric; here we chose a blazer in blood orange linen. To keep everything cohesive opt for an informal shoe. Of course you don’t want to look like you just stepped off a cruise ship, so we like the sophistication of these leather wedges, the essence of everyday elegance. Throw in a bright statement necklace to take this look to the next level.

Free yourself to mix and match, dress up or down, wear boots or heels, load on accessories or wear none at all. Our point? There’s hardly a wrong way!

Get the Look: Dress: Plenty by Tracy Reese (available at Cerato Boutique)

OTR: Jacket: Quiksilver; Scarf: J.Crew; Shoes: Madewell

GNO: Trench: PINKO; Necklace: J.Crew; Shoes: Missel Fridge

WW: Blazer: Smythe; Necklace: Stella Dot; Shoes: Mark and James by Badgley Mischka 

Three Ways to Wear Eskell

We love flowers—getting them, growing them and of course, wearing them. Fun and feminine, florals always manage to find their way into spring and summer trends, but we always love when they’re designed with a bit of edge. Eskell’s silk, floral prints are exactly what we’re talking about. Rather than going the all-over, ultra feminine (could’ve been your grandmother’s wallpaper in a past life) route, Eskell specifically places their richly hued sprawls of flowers. The doily-esque delicacy of flowers has been kicked up a notch with sharp gestures and bold floral choices. In addition, we adore the choice of black, which acts as another layer of contrast.

Little creativity is often given to dressing up or down a dress (simply change a shoe here and add a stack of bangles there), but we’re going to show you some options that you perhaps haven’t thought of. Even though this dress is silk with a chiffon overlay, surprisingly enough, it can still be worn during the day. We like the idea of dressing this floral piece down with a breezy, asymmetric cardigan, canvas booties and round sunnies. We just love how much the oatmeal color softens the edginess of this floral creation.

The best part of a dress is how easily it can go from day to night. Eskell’s Hannah dress has “drinks with friends” written all over it (well, not literally). A night on the town always calls for femininity sprinkled with a bit of edge. And in lieu of this concept, we’ve paired this sweetly silky number with a structured black leather biker jacket. We chose this one specifically for its low-key hardware (you don’t actually want to look like you just jumped off your Harley). Try a suede peep toe pump (a classic feminine touch) and a chunky, vintage-inspired necklace to finish off your rocker-chic look.

This piece is of course perfect for the office, lightweight and formal, but unique (you should never resort to a tired pant suit when options like this Eskell dress exist). To keep this look from saying, “Hey guys, I’m going to the martini bar across the street after work,” try simple, delicate accessories and shoes. A great black flat (look for a distinct, structured loafer) and delicate statement necklace pull this look together without spilling into “nightlife” territory. The double-breasted trench coat in cream is just another layer of dimension, softening the black and further balancing the business-professional. We love an opportunity to make your work wardrobe feel fresh and creative.

Get the Look: Eskell Hannah Dress (available at Cerato Boutique or shop online, here.)

OTR: Cardigan: Zadig et Voltaire; Shoes: Rag & Bone; Sunglasses: Selima Sun for J. Crew

GNO: Jacket: Warehouse; Shoes: Classiques Entier; Necklace: J. Crew

WW: Coat: Orla Kiely; Shoes: Madewell; Necklace: J. Crew

Three Ways to Wear Robbi & Nikki

All this warm weather seems to be reigniting our obsession with midriff skimming tops (worn tastefully, of course). The newest addition to our cropped collection is a white, mesh-back piece by Robbi & Nikki–just thinking about it makes us yearn for sandals, wedges and high-waisted everything. Though the material can be a bit deceiving, generating feelings of something more on the casual side, we’re utilizing today’s post to show you just how dressy it can be! Think of this cropped creation as a blank canvas, there’s hardly a wrong way to paint it, however here are some ideas we suggest.

Probably the most practical piece to throw on when running errands, this top has just as much ease and versatility as your favorite skinny jean. You can pair it with just about anything, but we like the idea of a chevron maxi skirt. The high-waist adds coverage while the length provides a wave of effortless elegance. Paired with a flat sandal (we love the pop of color on this t-strap shoe) and a bright wrap watch (you can substitute with a stack of multi-color bangles) this look is the epitome of market chic.

We’re convinced high-waisted pants and cropped tops will forever be life partners. The latest short-hemmed top by Robbi & Nikki creates an absolutely flawless look when matched with a high-waisted black skinny. Its sheer back is edgy, but not too revealing and the white provides endless possibility. Keep this look streamlined by adding a black, peep-toe wedge and a bold statement necklace (the winter white will make any necklace you choose pop). We think this outfit says edge meets glamor, surely a look you can recreate a number of times.

For our final ensemble, we’ve dressed this piece for the concert-lover in all of us. Going back to a refined version of boho-chic, we’ve paired the midriff baring number with a floor-length skirt. Intricate detailing at the waist and a slit up the front keeps the look polished, especially when styled with a leather strappy wedge. It’s that time of year when light scarves come flying out of our closets, so we’re tapping back into the trend with this leopard piece. Between the scarf and the wrap watch, the ensemble feels uniquely put together for a trendy night out, but can be worn for brunch with your friends.

Get the Look: Robbi & Nikki Contrast Tee (available at Cerato Boutique)

OTR: Skirt: Phase Eight; Sandal: Asos; Watch: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique)

GNO: Pant: River Island; Shoe: Steve Madden; Necklace: J. Crew

CC: Skirt: Rick Owens; Shoe: Mark and James by Badgley Mischka; Scarf: J. Crew; Watch: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique)

Three Ways to Wear Jenny Han

No one said it better than Hal Rubenstein, “Diagonals are a girl’s best friend.” Let’s face it stripes can be scary. We have to consider the width, location and sometimes even the color. However, when those bad boys appear at an angle, we’re over the moon. So, in honor of stripes everywhere, we’re featuring the newest Jenny Han Chevron Dolman Tunic. In sunset hues, these lines are nothing but figure flattering from the neckline to the hem. If we haven’t convinced you at this point, here are three more reasons to add this piece to your spring shopping list!

Patterns and prints should definitely be on your radar this spring. And wearing them together—an absolute must! In this on the go look we’re giving you two reasons (colorful diagonals and leopard) to be experimental with your wardrobe. Stripes, and especially all over stripes, shouldn’t keep you from creatively pairing your print with a patterned shoe. We’ve chosen leopard, but the possibilities are near endless, so have some fun! Let the tunic and shoe be the stand out pieces, keeping accessories to a minimum (we love this look with a simple wrap watch).

Wearing this top for a night out is actually pretty simple. We understand the all over print can seem a little intimidating, but believe us, this tunic is just as versatile as a solid colored blouse (well, almost). Keep the bottom half of this look neutral with a black skinny jean and black platform pump (you can also try a chunky t-strap wedge) and let the accessories do all the work. We’ve chosen a mint green skinny belt to further accentuate the waist, cream clutch with gold accents and statement earring (we suggest gold to tie it all in). This colorful number will leave you feeling polished and spring-ready!

The warm weather and springtime vibes have definitely motivated our selections for this outfit, and we couldn’t be more pleased. We love the idea of pairing this blouse with a bright blue pencil skirt (the pleated ruffle detailing is an added bonus), refining the look with a nude pump. Add a few bangles or a chunky earring to complete the ensemble, but just be sure not to get carried away. This outfit is the epitome of in-office chic and we’re positive you’ll brighten the moods of even the dreariest co-workers.

Get the Look: Jenny Han Chevron Dolman Tunic; $160 (available at Cerato Boutique)

OTR: Pant: Kasil + Taylor (available at Cerato Boutique); Shoe: Madewell; Watch: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique)

GNO: Pant: Kasil +Taylor (available at Cerato Boutique); Belt: Asos; Clutch: Zambos & Siega (available at Cerato Boutique)

WW: Skirt: Nanette Lepore; Shoe: Office; Bracelets: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique)

Three Ways to Wear Lily & Migs

Spring is here—well, in Cerato, anyway. We can only hope it continues to be as beautiful outside as it is currently in store. Each week more and more spring pieces make their way onto our racks (and into our hearts) and we’re certainly not complaining. We’re especially thrilled to see the newest pieces from our Chicago designers’ spring collections, which made this week’s featured item an obvious no-brainer. Lily & Migs is always surprising us with their edgy meets feminine designs and their sheer chiffon blouse is definitely this spring’s kryptonite. The slightest touch of gray and sweet feminine flow makes this top essential for these transitional months.

The back of this blouse is the epitome of edge. The clean, lower back cutout is not only tasteful, but gives this piece an array of possibility. We really love this top for daytime paired with a black skinny jean and flats. Because the top is so sheer, you’ll need to layer it with a tank, but this is where you can have some fun! Rather than choosing your normal black or gray, try a bright spring color (maybe coral, pale yellow or teal). In effect, the cutout back will show off your color choice, adding some pizzazz to your layered day look.

Sometimes it feels like we fall into a routine with our weekend outfits. It can be so easy to just throw on your black skinny jeans, black blouse and usual pumps for a night out with the girls, but this week we’re challenging you to venture outside your comfort zone. We’re all about layers, so why not try pairing this sheer top over a simple, column shaped maxi dress. Add a waist belt with metal detailing and a chunky black peep-toe wedge. Your friends will be amazed to see you in such a delicately daring number.

This blouse is perfect for the working woman. Not too fussy, it’s easy to pair with a trouser pant or pencil skirt. Aside from the obvious versatility, the top by Lily & Migs is both feminine and sophisticated with a high neckline and long sleeves. We suggest wearing a gray tank underneath, layering a chunky necklace on top and keeping the simplicity with a nude pump. This piece is a nice departure from your typical blouse, an essential selection for any work wardrobe needing a facelift.

Get the Look: Blouse: Lily & Migs (available at Cerato Boutique)

OTR: Jeans: Kasil + Taylor (available at Cerato Boutique); Watch: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique); Shoes: Belle by Sigerson Morrison

GNO: Dress: Warehouse; Belt: Yoox Collection: spring-summer; Shoe: Steve Madden

WW: Skirt: John Lewis; Necklace: Witchery; Shoe: Office

Three Ways to Wear Robbi & Nikki

We’ve been privy to the raging color trend for some time now, and the new trouser pant by Robbi & Nikki is no exception. They’re stealing the blue right out of blue jeans. High waisted with a wide leg this chino creation was made for the fashion forward. Their color exudes adventure, but refrains from being too punk rock, a great look that can go from Michigan Avenue to Lux Bar. We just can’t keep our eyes off this sapphire statement.

Billowy blue bottoms are the perfect piece for your mid-morning run to Starbucks. The flouncy beach appeal of this pant makes creating a casual look easy. Just pair them with a white button down (we’re really loving the tie detail, a great way to accentuate your waistline) and some bright, yellow flats. Keeping with the pops of color, we’ve added a teal rhinestone studded wrap watch, such a fun addition to this spring inspired outfit.

We’re keeping this GNO look a bit more understated than usual, opting to pair this blue pant with blocks of black. The contrast between the two colors dresses the look up without going overboard. We also love the touch of gold in the bag, bracelet and shoe detail.  The sheer black blouse keeps this ensemble edgy, while adding a feminine flare. There’s no way you’ll escape the stares in this number.

These pants work great with pops of color, black and, as we’re demonstrating in this concert-ready ensemble, neutrals. Don’t be afraid to throw a cropped tan sweater and camel booties on with these blue bottoms. Their striking color will take this look from hobo-chic Wickerpark to trendy Gold Coast. Adding neutral hues will dress Robbi & Nikki’s cobalt chinos down creating the ideal outfit for a night at Lincoln Hall.

Get the Look: Pant: Robbi & Nikki, $145 (available at Cerato Boutique)

OTR: Blouse: Miss Selfridge; Watch: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique); Shoe: See by Chloe

GNO: Blouse: Tibi; Bracelet: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique); Purse: Brynn Capella; Shoe: Classiques Entier

CC: Sweater: Jack by BB Dakota; Watch: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutqiue); Shoe: Theory

Three Ways to Wear Oxmo

This week we’re showing you the many ways to dress up, and down, the just-in navy Oxmo blazer. The ¾ length sleeve, cuffed with a white and blue polka dot lining, makes this one-button jacket incredibly versatile. We all have the quintessential black blazer hanging in our closets, and probably because black is one of those staples we tend to revert to. Navy, however, should also be considered a wardrobe must-have and these three styling ideas, from day to night and even to work, will surely convince even the most “New York” at heart.

OTR: We all like to look our best, even if it’s just to grab a salad from the grocery down the street (which this look is particularly perfect for). The pieces aren’t very fussy, but the execution is what makes this look so fresh. By simply adding a bright, contrasting color to the navy (we chose yellow, but chartreuse or magenta would look great too), a rather neutral color palette can become quite the conversation starter. We also paired this look with some snakeskin loafers, a great texture to spice up the bold blocks of color.

GNO: Taking this look from day to night is pretty simple. Like starting with a blank canvas, all you need is a few striking pieces to make your outfit feel elegant and complete. A metallic blouse, or even a lustrous silk top, creates an ideal balance between the weight of the blazer and the dark jean (and adding a touch of sparkle never hurts). We also adore pairing this ensemble with a punchy pink round-toed pump, just the right amount of pop for a night with your girlfriends.

WW: Finding a way to make a navy blazer look professional without taking the “matchy-matchy” route is a cinch. Trying a gray, fitted pant brings the right amount of cohesion to this business look without feeling too “prep school.” Next, simply add an abstract polka dot blouse (or any blouse with colorful detail) under the blazer—this is the easiest way to break up the uniformity. Throw on a nude pump and delicate, gold bangle and you’re ready for a long day at the office (looking fashionable, as always).

Get the Look: Blazer: Oxmo

OTR: Blouse: J. Crew; Jeans: Kasil + Taylor (available at Cerato Boutique); Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell; Bracelets: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique)

GNO: Blouse: Robert Rodriguez; Jeans: Kasil + Taylor (available at Cerato Boutique); Shoes: Aldo; Clutch: Zambos & Siega

WW: Blouse: H&M; Trouser: Elie Tahari; Shoes: Office; Bracelet: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique)

Three Ways to Wear Plenty by Tracy Reese

This week we’re completely enamored by the Plenty by Tracy Reese amazon and navy inkblot convertible chemise. Versatile and light, this frock is the perfect go to for a weekend away (we’re thinking the West Coast, maybe San Francisco). Or, you can add a few layers to stir-up a bit of envy as you fabulously brave the winter chill. We’re certain this is one dress with an array of possibilities, so we’ve taken on the challenge of giving you three different reasons to welcome this knock out number into your wardrobe.

Going to the grocery store? Throw this dress on with a pair of sheer black tights, a tan, wedged bootie and black cardigan and you’re ready for some chic supermarket madness. Trust us, you’ll look effortlessly amazing running your errands.

Let us guess, you’re friend called while you were running those last few errands demanding you two hit the town for a much needed GNO (girls night out). No need to fret, just a few tweaks to your current day look and you’ll be ready to cozy up with a glass of wine at 404 Wine Bar in no time. Trade out your cardigan for an edgy, gray motorcycle-inspired leather jacket, kick off those tan booties for a black, ankle-strapped platform pump, add a stack of silver bangles and simple silver-studded earrings and voila! Day to night has never been so easy!

Work attire can be so blasé. We suggest stepping out of your typical button down/trouser look and into something striking. Though a bold deviation from a generic suit and pant, this chemise can exude just as much professionalism when paired with the right pieces. Try a cropped black blazer with an angled cut, black tights and a black flat with charming detail. This dress will definitely have you tackling that looming mid-week slump with the utmost confidence.

Get the Look: Dress: Plenty by Tracy Reese

On the Run: Cardigan: J. Crew; Bracelet: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique); Shoes: H&M

Girls Night Out: Jacket: River Island; Bracelets: Kristin Hassan (available at Cerato Boutique); Shoes: Steve Madden

Working Woman: Blazer: Witchery; Shoes: Belle by Sigerson Morrison