3 min readMovie-inspired outfits for spring? Not exactly groundbreaking. Still, the cast of The Devil Wears Prada 2 is making the case for “cerulean blue” with cheery efficiency, sending Meryl Streep onto the Late Night with Stephen Colbert stage in a custom J.Crew sweater that mirrors Anne Hathaway’s original DWP costume—you know, the one that prompted the best monologue ever inspired by a blue crew neck top.
You can buy a similar piece from the men’s department of J.Crew Factory or from Ralph Lauren. (All together now: “But they’re so different!”) But if you prefer to transpose the color—which Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines as “resembling the blue of the sky” and not, sadly, as “a career-defining adjective for a plucky young assistant about to have her ass handed to her in a meeting”—designers have some options.
There are the cerulean cashmere tees from Miu Miu, as seen on Gigi Hadid in this month’s campaign, the cerulean hoodies and matching gym shorts at Skims, and even a pair of bright blue Tod’s driving loafers. Meanwhile, in the beauty space, Farah Homidi, Dior, Essie, and M.A.C have embraced the shade. And on this season’s runways, it popped up at Chanel, Moschino, Sa Su Phi, and Prabal Gurung.
Because it can work as a base shade or a pop of color, cerulean is one of those unexpected-but-not-outrageous shades that can slide right into your existing wardrobe. Here are ways to make it work for you, even without girding your loins.
The Classic Sweater
A vibrant, playful sweater is an easy way to tap into the trend. Reach for a cable-knit crew neck that channels the one from The Devil Wears Prada, or go for a wool V-neck that lends itself to layering with contrasting hues. On warmer days, you can also treat your sweater as an accessory—drape it over your shoulders or tie it at your waist for an effortless pop of color.
Alex Mill
Charlie Cable Sweater In Cashmere
Weekend Max Mara
Cotton Sweater
Lands’ End
Drifter Classic Cable Crew Neck Sweater
Now 50% Off
&Daughter
Glenn Ribbed Wool Sweater
Aligne
Kari Knitted Jumper
The Statement Pants
If you’re ready to turn heads, cerulean pants are the way to go—and there’s no shortage of chic options to explore right now. For a relaxed weekend look, try standout denim with a baby tee. If you’re after a more elevated feel, tailored trousers and a crisp button-down are always a winning pair. And for those warm spring days, breezy carpenter pants and an airy tank are an easy, stylish combo you’ll reach for again and again.
Leset
Jamie Carpenter Pant
Zara
Tapered High Waist Jeans
Pistola
Penny Crop High-Rise Wide Leg Jeans
High Sport
Kick Wool Pants
Easy Sneakers
If your gym outfits are starting to feel a bit stale (or you’re simply looking to refresh your go-to denim-and-sneaker pairing), a punchy blue trainer is the perfect update. Fortunately, many of our favorite styles come in this lively hue, from the celebrity-loved Puma Speedcat (ideal for adding a retro edge) to the classic Adidas Handball Spezial, along with plenty of other fun options for off-duty weekends.
Puma
Speedcat OG Sneakers
Adidas
Handball Spezial Shoes
Vans Super Lowpro Sneakers
Now 25% Off
Self.
Cobalt Blue Slim Trainers
Timeless Flats
While searching for the dreamiest cerulean flats, I stumbled upon a whole ocean of blue-hued options to suit any mood. Turn your daily errands into a moment with a comfy, foldable pair, or elevate your favorite summer dresses with a lush blue suede sandal. Miu Miu’s satin ballerinas are a charming choice well worth the splurge—and they pair beautifully with everything from cropped denim to flowy spring skirts.
Yosi Samra Samara Foldable Ballet Flat
Anonymous Copenhagen Sophie 20 Sandal
SeaVees
Womens Belmond Mule
Frēda Salvador
Jada Square Toe Ballet Flat
Vibrant Handbags
If you’re on the fence about cerulean, ease into the trend with a statement handbag styled against otherwise minimalist looks—one piece in this shade does all the talking. A large, slouchy silhouette makes for a playful yet practical work bag that’s bound to spark elevator conversation. Heading out for dinner? Swap in a bright blue clutch or a petite, structured style that holds just what you need.
Bottega Veneta Long Andiamo Clutch Bag
Ferragamo
Medium Hug Soft Bicolor Shoulder Bag
Jil Sander
Tangle Leather Shoulder Bag
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