10 Helpful Closet Renovation Tips

Not so long ago, my closet was filled to capacity. Probably over-filled, if I'm being honest. Because of its odd triangular shape, things were hard to get to and I couldn't keep all my clothes in it, no matter how many organizational strategies I tried. Shoes were still in boxes, undergarments and jewelry were in dressers in my bedroom, and it was just generally not an ideal situation for getting dressed comfortably or confidently. 

I knew I was long overdue for a closet renovation. 

Having just gone through the process, I want to share some tips and other things I learned along the way. Whether you're planning to embark on your own closet reno soon or you just need a more simple refresh, these tips can help you rework your closet so that you feel more at ease getting dressed.

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Enlist the help of a professional

Even if you feel totally comfortable planning out your closet from top to bottom, it's important to seek advice from a professional. They have access to all the latest and truly greatest organizational tools, items, and strategies to help you fully map out your closet. And the best pros take the time to sit down with you and learn about your lifestyle, then cater your closet to it! Even with my background, I got so many tips that hadn't even crossed my mind when I started this project. Leave it to the pros. 

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Don't overstuff your closet

This starts with a major closet cleanout. You don't want to build an all-new closet around clothes you aren't even sure about keeping, right? The more you see, the more you'll wear, and getting the most out of your closet is what this is all about. 

Having said that, I highly recommend taking your time purging your closet if possible. To put it mildly, it can be overwhelming. I had to empty mine completely prior to my closet renovation and it took me over a week to get through everything! It's also really helpful in terms of decision-making to step away occasionally, so I do not suggest trying to do a closet purge in one day. 

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Leave space for a full-length mirror

This tip seems so simple, but it's actually really easy to overlook when you're so focused on the bigger details. Even if the only available space is hanging on the back of a door, make sure you leave room in your closet (or very close to it) for a full-length mirror. It's a good idea to give yourself a once-over in the mirror before you leave the house!

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Try to keep all your like items together in the closet

If space allows, it's so helpful to organize your items by likeness. For example, hanging up all your blouses together means you'll know exactly where to look when you need one. This may mean switching out your closet in different seasons if space is limited. In the winter, store tanks and shorts in under-bed boxes and when it warms up, put sweaters away for the season.

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Hang up as much clothing as possible

To be honest, I hate folding things like tee shirts. Aside from being a nightmare to keep up with, I can't see all the details like graphics or sleeves. So, I hang just about everything except denim, sweaters, lounge wear, and leggings—those are folded. I find that my closet also stays a lot neater this way! In my closet renovation, I opted for more hanging space and fewer drawers, since I only keep bathing suits, pajamas, underwear, socks and bras in them.

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Keep shoes together and out of boxes

I fought this idea for a long time, thinking my shoes would get dusty if they weren't in a box and that I should "protect" them. However, I've come to realize that you save a ton of space by getting them out of their boxes or clear containers. If you have space, store your shoes on shelves in one area of your closet. Having them organized out in the open also allows you to try them on faster with an outfit. 

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Consider adding a small ottoman

This is another tip that seems so insignificant but can go a very long way in optimizing your closet. Functionally, adding a small ottoman, bench, or other similar piece of furniture gives you a place to sit when putting on shoes. It also adds a bit more of a homey vibe and makes your closet feel more like a retreat. 

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Get a small steamer

Clothing sometimes looks better steamed instead of ironed. Steamers are also quick and easy to use, and they work on every type of fabric! A good steamer doesn’t have to be large or industrial strength and in fact, there are several excellent portable options. I love my Rowenta steamer (I also have a heavy-duty iron from them that I love!). Just don’t let too many people know you have one…they’ll come over all the time to borrow it!

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Have a strategic flat surface

I mentioned earlier that I dislike folding most of my clothing.  However, sometimes there's no way around it. Having a flat surface available, like a pull-out shelf gives you an area (and a reason!) to refold things when you're done trying them on or when they come back from the cleaner. That simple flat surface will also encourage you to keep your closet less cluttered, which is a huge benefit!

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Consider a valet rod

Do you tend to hang clothes from doorknobs and the tops of open doors when you're deciding on an outfit or packing? I have — until I learned about valet rods, that is. A valet rod comes in many styles, shapes, and sizes, but is essentially a rod or pole designed specifically for hanging clothes. It's a super simple item that prevents your clothes from dragging on the floor or getting dusty, and it helps keep things nicely organized.  

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So there you have it — my top tips for a closet renovation or refresh! Remember, the whole point of this project is that your closet is meant to be your own little space, not something that stresses you out the moment you step into it trying to decide what to wear. I've always thought of my closet as my little sanctuary, a place that reflects my personality and style. I like to keep personal touches such as diffusers (but never candles!) and a couple of special items from family members, like my dad's old tie and a hat from my grandma.

My closet had become so unorganized and messy that it was no longer any of those things. Now, I've been wearing so much more of my clothing because my closet is visible and organized, and there isn't a single thing I'm the least bit hesitant about keeping. I can honestly say I feel great and love everything in there, and I'd love to help you feel the same about your closet!

Fashionably yours,

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How to Wear Spring and Summer 2021 Fashion Trends (and a Few I'll Pass on!)

Every year at the beginning of spring and fall, I love looking at all the new fashion trends in magazines and online. It's one of my favorite ways to find outfit inspiration! 

I don't like to buy into fads or of-the-moment trends, but I do enjoy seeing what's on the runway and figuring out how to transfer those looks to real life. It's fun to see if I have any of those items in my closet already and if there are some I simply can't replicate...and therefore can't live without. I especially like finding new looks that are truly unique but not too over-the-top. The goal is to look just different enough to stand out without looking dated. 

With that in mind, here are the top 12 spring and summer 2021 fashion trends I'm seeing everywhere. As always, I'm sharing my honest opinions, tips, and tricks. I also curated my favorite shoppable picks for the upcoming season in LIKEtoKNOW.it, so you can see exactly how I plan to incorporate these trends into my own wardrobe!

Black and white

I've always been a huge fan of the contrasting classic black and white look. It's sharp but not stuffy, appropriate in literally any setting and season, and ultra-flattering on everyone. You can pull it off effortlessly in so many ways — and probably with several things you already own.

Bra tops

I won't even sugarcoat it; I'm not a fan of this trend. I don't mind a lacy bra top showing through a sheer blouse, but that's the only way I would wear this look. It's hard to imagine actually going anywhere or doing anything productive in just a bra!

Midriff "Flossing"

This is another trend I just can't get on board with. If you're unfamiliar with midriff flossing, the term refers to skirts with several ties that wrap around the stomach. It seems like far too much work and personally, I don't need anything pinching my sides more than my waistband already does!

Floaty maxi dresses

Now here's a fashion trend I can (and do!) totally get into. It's amazing how perfectly put-together a maxi dress makes you look, isn't it? Almost without fail, I get several compliments when I'm out wearing one. Floaty maxi dresses have a distinct air of glamour, yet no outfit could be easier — just throw one on and go! I find maxis so cool (literally figuratively) and breezy, especially in the hot and humid Florida climate. 

Baggy trousers and statement pants

This trend may be difficult to embrace if you're a devoted skinny pants lover, but consider giving it a chance. I actually love a great pair of statement pants (or shoes or top or piece of jewelry for that matter...), but they're not entirely effortless. My caution with baggy or wide-leg pants is to not overdo it. Make sure the bagginess isn't too much and balance the look with a feminine, fitted top to make it more flattering.

Cape details

This look provides a lot of drama and I could take it or leave it at this point. I can certainly appreciate the whimsical escapism the designers are going for and it's always nice to have a bit of extra arm coverage, especially in chilly air conditioning. I love the look, I'm just not sure what event I'd need a cape for!

Sequins

I really believe this is designers' way of offering fashionistas a much-needed mood boost. After all, what's more fun than a daytime disco?! I'm all about adding some shine to daytime looks, but be careful not to overdo it. I'd suggest wearing a sequin tee or blazer with staple pieces like jeans. 

Cutouts

I love the open backs I'm seeing in a lot of items right now, and the smaller peekaboo details are also fun. Cutout dresses seem to be a bit too fussy and in my opinion, they're a "one-and-done" look, but I'm much more open to seeing this trend in bodysuits. Pare the drama down a bit with jeans or trousers and you have a winning look.

Corsets

Admittedly, I was quick to dismiss this trend until I looked at several variations. Generally speaking, I'm not a fan of wearing undergarments as clothing — but hey, that's what makes us all unique. I did, however, find a few corset looks that I thought were relevant and could translate to everyday life.

Fishnet clothing

Much like sequins and corsets, I think fishnet anything should be worn sparingly. There are so many variations now, so if you love the look of fishnet, purchase one versatile item you can wear in many ways. Think a lightweight cardigan or top that can be layered over other pieces.

Stripes

I love all the stripes popping up for spring and summer! Stick with the classics and find lines and color combinations (like black and white — two birds, one stone!) that flatter your frame. I don't believe horizontal stripes always make you look larger, but some are so exaggerated that they look like prison uniforms, and that look isn't flattering on anyone!

Hoodies and skirts

Maybe I'll come around in a season or two, but hopefully I don't have to, because I don't find this trend attractive at all. The idea is to make traditional ladylike looks more modern, but to me, it falls a bit flat. 

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These are just some of the trends in my Like To Know It Picks. See them all at https://www.liketoknow.it/Chacha-Olivia

So there you have it — the hottest fashion trends for spring and summer 2021. Which ones are you most excited about? Connect with me on Instagram or Facebook and tag me in your outfit photos so I can see what you come up with!

Fashionably Yours,

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My Top Recommended Closet Essentials

A closet revamp doesn't necessarily have to mean "out with the old, in with the new." In fact, the last time I revamped mine, I kept almost everything in terms of clothing but added a handful of new, super useful non-clothing items. I'm calling them closet essentials. 

The idea behind this is to optimize your closet. I'm sharing several items I've discovered that I consider absolutely essential to helping you get the most out of your closet and wardrobe, as well as some things you should ditch ASAP. The best part is, I've linked each product I recommend at the bottom of this post so everything is easily and conveniently shoppable.

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01. NO more wire hangers!

Wire and plastic hangers are one of my biggest closet pet peeves — and not just because they look horrible. These types of hangers are absolutely ruthless on your clothes. No matter what type of fabric, everything stretches on wire hangers! It may sound like I'm being a bit dramatic, but it’s truly almost impossible to get your clothes back to normal after those torture devices have abused them!

So, what should you use instead? The velvet hangers that you can find almost anywhere, including big-box stores like Target, Costco, and Amazon. Not only are they much kinder to your clothing, but they also take up far less closet space. In the past I recommended the velvet skirt hangers but I have gone back to the plastic clipped shorts/skirts hangers pictured above. I love these because you can save even more space by "piggybacking" them for shorter items.

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02. Invest in quilted purse shapers

Handbags are a bit of an investment for most of us. Like any other type of investment, we should protect them and properly care for them. I used to put plastic in my own to help them keep their shape, but after doing some research, I learned that's actually the worst thing to put inside your purses.

I found these quilted fabric purse shapers and I love them. No more creases and wrinkles in your bags! They come in three sizes, so they're great for everything from clutches to tote bags.

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03. Get dust covers for your handbags

Along the same lines as the purse shapers, it's worthwhile to protect your prized bags with dust covers. This is especially true if you put them away for a season or two. Many handbags come with their own dust covers, but you often can't see the bags! Again, after much research, I found these great fabric covers! They have a sheer strip so you can easily see the bag inside, and they come in three sizes.

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04. Use shoulder covers for items you only wear occasionally

Items like evening dresses and winter coats that aren't worn very often can easily collect dust, particularly on the shoulders. Shoulder covers protect them and keep the clothes looking their best. While the ones I recommend are plastic, they cover just a small external area of the clothes, so it's nothing to be concerned about. 

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05. Boot trees are a must

Like purses, boots are often an investment (and sometimes, a not-so-small investment!). Boot trees are like the quilted purse shapers in that they keep your boots standing tall, preventing wrinkles and permanent creases.

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06. Get a shoe stretcher

We all know that shoes are not created equal. Your "regular" size may be three different numbers with three different brands! Especially with all the online shopping we do, no one wants to go to a cobbler once you finally get the shoes in hand. 

A good shoe stretcher is well worth the investment, so don't skimp on this purchase. Make sure to get a wood one that stretches the length and width or both left and right shoes. Everyone in your family will want to borrow this!

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07. Keep foot petals on hand

I always keep a few packs of these in my closet! The heel savers are great for shoes where the leather rubs your heel or if you find yourself sliding. The toe petal adds a little cushion to the ball of your foot and keeps it in place, especially in heels. 

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08. Invest in a quality steamer

Clothing sometimes looks better steamed instead of ironed. Steamers are also quick and easy to use, and they work on every type of fabric! A good steamer doesn’t have to be large or industrial strength and in fact, there are several excellent portable options. I love my Rowenta steamer (I also have a heavy-duty iron from them that I love!). Just don’t let too many people know you have one…they’ll come over all the time to borrow it!

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09. Use a small collapsible rack

This is one of my most frequently used closet essentials! I find this one to be particularly handy because it collapses and stores easily. I use it frequently when I'm pulling items for traveling, sorting, and outfit planning. Funny enough, I have quite a few friends who thought I was crazy until they got their own racks!

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10. Smaller must-have closet essentials

These little items are the definition of "tiny but mighty." I use lint removal tape and Downy Wrinkle Releaser frequently, especially when I'm in a hurry. Looking rumpled or being covered in lint is never a good look! Similarly, a battery-operated fabric shaver/de-fuzzer quickly makes sweaters and other "fuzzy" items look new again. Double-sided tape has saved me from embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions more times than I can count!

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Bonus: The Hanger Valet

Finally, The Hanger Valet works wonders for planning outfits ahead of time. This innovative product allows you to put complete outfits together and even includes small zippered pockets for accessories and intimates. 

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Enjoy checking out my closet essentials below, and just a quick heads up: some of my suggestions contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, you won't pay a penny more, but I may earn a small commission, which helps me keep the lights on! Thank you!! And remember — NO wire hangers!!

Fashionably yours,

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How Just Getting "Dressed Up" Can Make the Holidays Feel More Special

Can you believe that Christmas is this week?! Even though there were several points when it felt like 2020 might never end, here we are – we made it! While the holidays undoubtedly look very different this year, it's important to remember that this is still a very special time. The holiday season is many people's favorite time of year and more than ever before, we should embrace our most cherished traditions and make things especially memorable. 

If you're not getting together with your family and friends as you normally would during the holidays, it's easy for it to feel like any other day. However, that's exactly why you should make it a point to do something extra special! Even though we may not physically be with our loved ones this year, there are several things we can do to feel more connected with them and boost our own moods in the process. 

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Recently I conducted a poll on my Instagram account, where I asked if everyone was really just wearing loungewear these days. I was shocked at the final result: all but one of the answers was yes! Believe it or not, how we dress – even if we're not leaving the house – has a tremendous effect on our mood, self-esteem, and even productivity.

According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, "Researchers studying links between clothes, brain activity and productivity have long found that dressing up for work can improve your performance." This phenomenon is called enclothed cognition and I actually discussed it in an older blog post, "I. Feel. Pretty." Essentially, enclothed cognition refers to the signals that clothes send to the human brain. It goes far beyond just work and productivity; enclothed cognition research proves that simply getting dressed can pull you out of a funk and completely turn your day around. 

In today's world when so many people work from home, children are in remote school, it's cold and dreary around much of the country, and you can have virtually anything delivered in a matter of hours, it's fairly common to not leave the house for days at a time. Add to that the totally normal "winter blues" and Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, defined by Mayo Clinic as "a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons," and you have a perfect recipe for rarely getting dressed. There is no hard data available yet, but experts believe the effects of the winter blues and SAD will be compounded in the face of the pandemic because so many people are spending this year's holidays in isolation.

This is exactly where enclothed cognition comes into play – something as simple as getting truly dressed for the day can be an instant mood lifter and have a domino effect of positive wellness benefits. 

What to wear for the holidays when you're staying in

Now that we've discussed the many benefits of getting properly dressed, let's talk about how to put that to work during the holidays. Unless your family has a long-standing tradition of staying in matching Christmas pajamas all day, put on "real" clothes early in the day. It helps you get in the right mindset for whatever you're doing, whether it's having a small family meal, hosting a Zoom get-together, or even just watching holiday movies on the couch with your partner. 

Your outfit doesn't necessarily have to be fancy. I've previously given tips for how to dress when you're hosting a party and many of the same rules apply here. 

Wear something comfortable

This includes shoes. You don't want to be too cold or hot, or spend the day adjusting straps or hiking up your bottoms. I'm a huge fan of layering long duster cardigans and as a bonus, they instantly dress up an outfit.

Don’t wear anything fussy

For example, no long, fluttery sleeves or loads of jewelry.

Go festive!

Wearing red, green, silver, or gold feel a bit extra special and can go a long way in helping you feel like this is still a “normal” holiday. The same goes for more luxe fabrics like velvet and faux leather.

Don’t wear what you don't feel confident in.

You want to be in something you know fits you well. A special day isn't the time to debut an outfit you've never worn.

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I've come up with several creative ideas for sharing special moments with your family and friends this holiday season – no matter how many miles may separate you. Thanks to modern video conferencing technology (i.e., Zoom and Google Hangouts), you can still "be together" in a sense. Believe me, I know that Zoom gets tiring, but it really is one of the best ways to connect with loved ones you can't physically be with. Personally, I always feel so much better actually seeing those people I love and miss dearly, even if it is through a screen. I'll take what I can get! Here are some of the things my family is trying out this year.  

Open presents together

Get decked out in holiday outfits

Share a toast or even a full meal!

Do holiday crafts together.

Have everyone purchase the same ornaments (or even better, send them out as early Christmas gifts!), then set a time to personalize them together. You could also do something similar with stockings, wreaths, or even cookies.

Have an ugly sweater contest

Send everyone scratch-off tickets.

Scratch them together to see if anyone is a big winner!

Remember, to get the most out of the holidays this year, get dressed – fully dressed, hair, makeup, the whole deal! Keeping up with traditions and even creating new ones has never been more important. I hope these tips are helpful, and I'd love to hear how you're celebrating the holidays! Connect with me on Facebook or tag me in your Instagram photos and stories @therealchachaolivia.

From my family to yours, I wish you a heartfelt happy holidays!

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5 Ways to Dress for Fall When it Doesn't Feel Like Fall

I think we can all agree that 2020 has been flat-out wacky. I'm referring to several different things of course, but in this particular context, it's the weather. In early September, a huge snowstorm blanketed a large portion of the western United States, dumping as much as nine inches of snow in some areas. Meteorologists said it was "one of the earliest snowstorms on record." There were two weeks of summer officially left! Then last week, which was November, the entire Midwest experienced an unusual heatwave with temperatures reaching the upper 70s. And let's not forget the apocalyptic "firenado" in northern California in August. Even if you live in a place where you can generally count on crisp fall weather, things can change.

To be honest, I (and I'm guessing most of you) don't really mind the warm fall temperatures – but it sure does make it difficult to get dressed for the day. You need a full-blown winter coat when you leave in the morning but by 11:00 AM, it's too warm for long sleeves. As a former New Englander who now lives in Florida, I can relate to this all too well. I would love to throw on a chunky sweater and some tall boots, but that's probably not in the cards anytime soon. Knowing that so many of you are in the same boat, I've put together my best tips for dressing for fall even when it's pushing 80 degrees.

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Skirts in fall fabrics

Nothing says fall quite like suede and corduroy, but let's be honest – those fabrics can be hot. If you're in a warm-weather climate, a great workaround for this is to wear skirts. They have that unmistakable fall look without being too warm. If a cold snap happens to come through, you can wear a pair of tights underneath or (finally) pull out your favorite tall boots. This season's fall skirts have fun details like pockets and tie-waists.

See My Picks

Sweater vests

Before you give me the side-eye, hear me out. Modern sweater vests have come a long way since the '70s. True, they’re absolutely retro, but in a decidedly chic sort of way. Sweater vests also complement virtually everything (really!), so it’s east to make them work for you. Go ahead – put on one of your go-to outfits, then top it with a sweater vest. I’m willing to bet you’ll be surprised by how much you like the result. I personally love the cable-knit details and button-up styles because they add interest and texture, plus they almost mimic “real” sweaters. View my latest IGTV video for different ways to wear this trend!

See My Picks

Lightweight kimonos

If you really can't get on board with sweater vests, give kimonos a try. As you know, I'm a huge fan of layering. Adding a third piece of clothing to any outfit really does make you look more put-together, even if you're wearing something as casual as a graphic tee and jeans. I especially love light, airy kimonos because they're chic yet comfortable and effortless and they can be worn all year. Opt for jewel tones for fall, then wear the kimono as a swimsuit coverup in the summer – voila!

See My Picks

Long-sleeved dresses

I love the balanced silhouette of a mini- or midi-dress with long sleeves. It has that classic sweaterdress look, but can be made of a much lighter material (remember, fake it 'til you make it!). Pair it with low booties and a statement necklace and you're done! This look can also be easily dressed up or down by pairing it with different jacket styles. Throw on a denim jacket or even vest for a more low-key look, or choose a peacoat or blazer for a dressier look.

Since a dress is essentially a one-piece outfit, balance is crucial. If your dress is a solid color or has a neutral print, wear statement shoes, like a pair of white ankle booties. And vice-versa, if the dress has a bold design, opt for neutral footwear.

See My Picks

Mules

I think mules must have been created by a fellow Floridian, someone who wanted to wear boots in the fall but knew they were way too heavy and hot. Whoever it was, I'd like to thank them – I love a good pair of mules. The whole front of your foot is covered so you feel like you're wearing boots, but mules are backless, so you stay nice and cool. This season, there are fabulous mules in all sorts of styles and heel heights. Pair them with cropped jeans, a skirt, or even a dress – just make sure it's something that shows off the mules' details.

See My Picks

I hope these transitional wardrobe tips are helpful, especially for my fellow warm-weather dwellers. Let me know which combos you try and be sure to tag me in your outfit photos on Instagram @therealchachaolivia! Stay (fashionably) cool my friends!

Happy Styling,

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