Waking Up with a Cerato Girl

This morning was a bit more relaxed than normal.

I woke up to pleasantly find I was out of coffee (most caffeine-addicted individuals, such as myself, would normally react in a manner inconceivable to most—usually a moment of panic, an instant stream of words moving like a breaking news banner across the ripples of my brain; they would probably say something like, “OMG, WHAT DO I DO NOW…I NEEEEED COFFEE, IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO FUNCTION WITHOUT COFFEE”), however to my very own surprise I found myself gladly opting for mandarin orange spiced tea. It was at that moment that I knew only good would come of this day.

The sun was beaming into my kitchen, teasing me with the promise of warmth. Wind silently trickled through clusters of mossy green leaves and as I gazed through the residue-covered glass, I imagined the pitter-patter rustle one might hear standing just beneath them. I pulled up the window hoping to delight in nature’s very own orchestra, smiling as I turned on my heel and sashayed toward my closet.

What to wear, what to wear (these three little words trounce in and out of my mind at least twice a day—often times more). Oh how I love the inevitable transition into spring (I roll my eyes). The inconsistency can, at times, wear on my outfit creativity—even the Weather Channel can’t be trusted, so I double check the temperature of the breeze slipping through the window screen and walk back to my closet.

My go to in times of uncertainty, a floor length maxi dress (particularly a bold, bright shade of green by Robbi & Nikki). There’s really nothing that makes you feel more feminine and relaxed as it sways back and forth over the tops of your feet. It was just a bit too chilly to wear the t-strapped maxi alone, so I pulled my chambray shirt from its teal, velvet hanger and tied it up around my waist. Interesting but effortless had officially become my theme for the day.

A high bun would complete the entire look, with the addition of a twisting snake ring from Stella & Dot and a stack of Kristin Hassan wraps and bangles.

Now, all I needed was the cool breeze of a tucked-away beach resort—my mind began to wander (I’m positive losing focus would be my superpower). Instead, I decided I would walk the mile to work, delighting in the beaming sun and cool breeze and imagining a quiet place somewhere beyond the horizon.

Perhaps it was the tea or maybe the beautiful day, but my morning spiraled into a state of Zen that even I could not have foreseen. As I neared the corner to Cerato Boutique I was certain—these moments are the greatest moments.

We’ve Got Your Basics Covered

When filling out any wardrobe we can’t emphasize the importance of basics enough. They’re not the most exciting addition to your closet, but trust us, they’re the most essential. We’re talking your solid, jersey knit tee, maxi, cardigan, your go-to when you’re running behind but still want to feel put together. They need little more than a great pair of shoes and accessories to dress up or down, a crucial detail for any time-crunched fashionista.

Sure you can purchase a few v/crew-neck tees and call it a day, but how about some basics with a little attitude? Well you’re in luck, because that’s just what Cerato and Kristin Hassan teamed up to accomplish. The result: a collection of classics you’ll be intermixing in your current wardrobe for some time (talk about a great investment!).

The ideas leading up to its inception are pretty short and sweet. After combing the fashion market for a line indicative of both Cerato and their ever-confident consumer, they felt nothing quite made the cut. Thus, they began throwing around the idea of creating their own. After months of hard work and a string of obstacles, we are happy to announce the arrival of our very own apparel line!

We’ll be officially launching this Friday for our 2^nd Anniversary party! Stop by and check out our twist on the typical basic. You’ll want one in every color!

How To: Pastels

Pastels can be problematic, especially around Easter time. Looking like you fell face-first into the multi-colored paper shreddings of an Easter basket is so 90s. Actually, we’re  trying to remember when this was ever a good look–for anyone. With that said, we’re here to give you full disclosure on how to wear your pastels (yes, you can wear more than one without looking like a dip-dyed Easter egg) and remain on-trend.

Tip #1: As demonstrated in the image above, pastels are a great addition to bright, contrasting colors. Lay your bright blue (red, yellow, or purple) pants on your bed, grab a bunch of solid colored pastel blouses or tanks and just start mixing them up. We’re guessing your first thought wouldn’t be bright blue and light pink, but it works flawlessly. Tie this look together with another pop of color  (we’ve chosen an orange wrap watch with gold detailing) and neutral shoes.

Tip #2: This suggestion is especially helpful when tackling those pastel jeans everyone seems to be obsessing over. It’s almost too easy to pair your pants with a neutral top, so consider mixing it up with a print. Bold prints work extremely well, especially leopard, geometric blocks of color (go for bright, rich hues) and florals. When accessorizing, stick to multi-toned metals and lots of them!

Tip #3: Our final tip is probably far from what you’d expect: layering pastel on top of pastel. We weren’t exactly sold on the idea at first either, but after observing the style cue in Vogue, we changed our minds. The key to wearing this correctly is in the pieces you choose. Pastel itself is feminine, so mixing pieces and accessories that seem to balance a feminine flare with a structured sense of edge is how you achieve this look. Try a pastel pant with a structured, pastel blouse (look for something with interesting detail) and clutch (a pastel clutch with studs–perfect). Definitely stray from matching, picking pieces that offer contrast through detail and structure rather than color.

Now, who’s up for a pastel party?

Get the Look:

Pants & Top: Robbi & Nikki 

Watch: Kristin Hassan

Waking Up with a Cerato Girl

Today was one of those reluctant, I have to get out of bed and inject coffee into my bloodstream mornings.

The coffee was aromatic, swirling caffeine-laden smells into the clean, cool air. The sun, piled behind the tightly closed shades, urgently peaked through the barely parted slats with promise of a warm spring day. Flipping through the pages of her half-read novel, she wonders when life will slow down long enough to enjoy more than the pre-bedtime 20 page segments that have, thus far, partially quilted this story together.

From fantasy to fashion, she quietly slides across the wooden floor toward the crystal knob of her neatly packed wardrobe. The next fifteen to thirty minutes will consist of pulling tops, skirts, pants, dresses (really anything), waiting for that inspirational flicker. When it does arrive, however, it’s like a warm, incandescent light illuminating the way in a cavernous space. Today this process began with a full length, chiffon maxi skirt from Jack by BB Dakota. The top was an effortless choice that almost too easily fell into place: a deep-v top with pocket detail by Karen Zambos.

Jewelry is always the next step and comes with little resistance. Multiple stacked bangles, including a multi-tone wrap bracelet by Kristin Hassan, and her staple oversized turquoise and jewel-encrusted ring bedazzle her milky, sun-deprived skin. Pushing the backs of her studded earrings firmly into place she daydreams about traveling to the pebbled beaches of South France where she can spend her days photographing fleeting moments and lusting after croissant au chocolat. She adds a spritz of YSL fragrance to her wrist, further pressing the notion into her mind.

Looking down at her computer, which has been blaring the dreamy rhythms of Grimes latest collection, she notices the time. Sweeping blush across her cheeks and her hair into a high pony, she heads for the door stopping only briefly to catch her reflection in a full length mirror. Refreshed and spring-inspired, she turns the handle and proceeds into possibilities of a Wednesday.

What she’s reading: Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl

What she’s drinking: a freshly brewed cup of Caribou coffee from her Keurig (add soymilk)

What she’s wearing: Jack by BB Dakota skirt, Karen Zambos top, Lucky Brand ankle boots, an assortment of jewelry and a Kristin Hassan wrap bracelet

What she’s listening to: Grimes, Visions

What she’s thinking about: the beautiful sun of South France

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