What's In My Bag: Beach Bag Essentials

When we think of a “beach bag” we don’t normally think of strategy and style. Let’s chat today about what’s in my beach bag! I’ll give you a hint, everything is simple, accessible and anyone can get these items for a reasonable price.

CHECK OUT THE WHAT’S IN MY BAG SERIES: MY BEACH BAG FOR A CLOSER LOOK AT ALL OF THESE ITEMS @TheRealChachaOlivia.

Click Here to dive into the Chacha-Olivia: What’s In My Beach Bag Catalogue!

Crushable Hat!

This is my go to beach accessory that I carry with me every time we plan a trip to the beach here in our hometown or on our vacation. You don't have to spend a lot of money. Pack it and roll it, it will pop back into place! My go to hat is my Helen Kaminski Packable Hat from Nordstrom.

Sunscreen

A good reasonable clean sunscreen made for everyone is from Beautycounter. It is healthy, with non toxins. This is a definitely a necessity and my favorite Beautycounter products are the sunscreen lotion and sunscreen for face.

Ice Pack Pouch

Inside your beach bag pack Icy Cools Neoprene Insulated Pouch. For all the products that can’t handle too much heat just pop the pouch in the freezer with the ice pack inside the pouch and you will be ready to hit the beach in no time. Since I usually have a bare face at the beach I like to carry my Laura Mercier Hydrating Lip Balm and Facial Sunscreen from Beauty Counter. It’s nice knowing I have my favorite items protected from the heat at the beach.

Personal Cup Holder- No need for beach chairs!

If you plan on staying at the beach for a whole day these “cup holders” are a must. You can easily pack the stackable cup holder that can be placed directly in the sand, keeping your drinks and water bottles sand free.

Sand Problems? Don’t worry I have the best product for you!

Beach Sandy sand remover brushes are my new favorite essential beach item. There are a couple of sizes that really work on just about anything. The bristles of the brush are soft and not harsh on the skin or anything for that matter. It takes the sand off of surfboards, skin, towels, bags, phones, and dog paws too! I’ve put it to the test and this product is a must have!

Beach cover up

I got the thing for you! The Sarong is a great item to have that can be used to and from the beach. There are many colors you can choose from to make your beach style complete. The best part is you can wear this is many different ways that compliment your body and the hot temps outside.

The Towel Deal Situation: I have a game changer for you

Towels are so bulky to pack and don’t really dry quickly and hold so much sand! Well I have a solution for this beach dilemma. It’s the beach towels from Dock & Bay. They are super easy to pack so you won’t need that big towel bag anymore. They come in various sizes, colors and patterns. The best part is they dry very quickly & you can shake the sand right off! It’s the perfect item for your beach bag.

The Thigh Problem; I was not blessed with a thigh gap. Not an issue anymore!

I saved the best for last! Let's be honest, the friction between our inner thighs is a hassle in itself and can be worrisome. The real question is how do we deal with it. Well this product is a life saver and works wonders for me! I learned about this brand from a podcast with Marie Forleo and Katie Sturino (Founder of Mega Babe) and I have been hooked on the MegaBabe brand. Try the Thigh Rescue Anti- Friction Stick! Available at Target & Ulta! Thank me later.

Some Final Thoughts

Remember to go out this Summer and have fun while being safe at the same time. I hope these tips will make your next beach trip easier than before so you just have to worry about your tan. Feel free to share your beach day photos with me on Instagram @TheRealChachaOlivia or use the #ChachaOliviaStyleTips.

As always ladies, I offer free, no-obligation 30 minute calls for a chance to chat with me for 30 minutes about your questions, your fashion and styling needs, and your wonderings about working together. No stress, no commitment, just a good chat. I hope to chat with you very soon!

Fashionably Yours,

---

While I will always select the best items for you, some of the links included may be automatically affiliated. This helps support my business and allows me to keep my rates what they are while spending the time necessary to find and create these recommendations.

---

You Might Also Like These Blog Posts

Building On Your Summer Classics With "On Trend" Yet Timeless Pieces

I’m excited to show you how to build on your Summer Wardrobe of basics by mixing in some “on trend” but not too trendy pieces to update the looks.

I chose 11 of my “go to” Summer basics to work with as examples. Your basic options can be similar they don’t have to be exactly the same. For instance, you might choose denim shorts where I chose white or black. You might choose a navy, shorter dress where I chose a white longer version.

Check out this IG TV Styling Series @TheRealChachaOlivia for a closer look at all the items and styling tips CLICK HERE.

11 Basics Items you need in your closet

Take a closer look at the Chacha-Olivia: Summer Classics Catalogue

1. A lightweight dress-Long, short or midi. You can be pair it with sandals or fun sneakers. I get lots of mileage from this dress because it can be paired with so much. You may choose a different length or color but it would still be a great basic in your closet.

2. A denim jacket- This item is a great match with different outfits pretty much year round!

3. Solid Shorts- Neutral color  

4. Basic pants- Neutral color

5. Denim Skirt/Shorts- Length is your preference

6. Denim Blouse- this is also another great piece to have in your closet year round. In the summer you may choose sleeveless.

7. Light weight Short Sleeve Blouse- I get a lot of mileage out of this item too! Plus it is really comfortable and cool!

8. Basic White Tee

9. Simple white tank- another top that can be paired with everything and a tank top is a must have for the Summer.

10. Sneakers- White sneaker can be matched with all different colors and styles

11. Sandals- Pick a neutral sandal that can be switched between outfits

These are all great capsule items. A good rule of thumb, especially for a capsule, is 3 tops to 1 bottom. You could easily pack for a 2 week trip using these items creating around 15 outfits. That is really convenient and you won’t wear the same outfit twice.

On to updating these basics with “On trend” fun pieces to round out your wardrobe and create double the looks!

Take a closer look at the Chacha-Olivia: On Trend Summer Wardrobe Builders

Try adding the following…

*A printed tank. One that will work with 3 bottoms and that you can layer with the denim jacket too. This will give you a sleeveless option for those hot and humid days. Not into sleeveless? We can look at cap sleeve or you will see other options in the catalogue.

*A puffy sleeve is so on trend right now. My advice here is don’t overdo the puff. You will want to wear it in seasons to come! I opted for white and chose simplicity here because I knew I wouldn’t be layering it.

*Add a printed bottom or solid bright color pant or short. You can choose lengths from Mini, Midi, or even Maxi to fit your style.

*Finally shoes can be a great way to add some flare to your capsule items as well give your wardrobe a new look.

Here are my suggestions…

*Slides/Mules are very popular for Summer. You can choose simple again here or add something with some flair. I love this mule option over a flip flop. There is definitely more support and coverage but you still have the feel of being in a sandal.

One of my favorites to add to my capsule items is a trendy sneaker. You can choose a wild print to pair with your basics. You may choose a more mild look but try something that isn’t white!

Some Final Thoughts

Keep in mind ladies that these are my style picks. What I want to encourage you to do this Summer is to step outside your box and really make your wardrobe work for you. I’m all about shopping your closet and getting the most wear from what is in your wardrobe already. It is fun to add dimension to your wardrobe by adding pieces of interest! Please share your photos with me @TheRealChachaOlivia or use #ChachaOliviaStylingTips. I love seeing all your creative minds and confidence bloom through your style.

As always if you want to reach out to me for a quick 30 min chat so we can discuss your style, wardrobe dilemmas, or how to work with me, I’m always here for a fun girl chat! You can book a FREE 30 min call with me or check out my website to see how we can work together virtually. Look forward to chatting with you!

Fashionable yours,

---

While I will always select the best items for you, some of the links included may be automatically affiliated. This helps support my business and allows me to keep my rates what they are while spending the time necessary to find and create these recommendations.

---

You Might Also Like These Blog Posts

Style Sunglasses To Work With Your Look

Hello Beautiful Ladies,

I received so many questions last week after sharing some of my sunglasses shopping tips. So I wanted to share a little BONUS Styling Tip for styling Sunglasses to work with your look. There are so many options for the fashionista to the minimalist plus several frame shapes that work for each face shape. Check out my Instagram Story Highlights were I go in a little further to share my sunglass styling tips.

So let’s dive in and lift up the shades on these great styling tips that I’m so excited to share with you.

Check out this helpful tool: Nordstrom’s Sunglasses Fit Guide to help you fit the best shape and frame for your face shape.

My first tip and an important one is to know which frame styles suit your face shape. There are certain frames that compliment a heart, round, square,or oval face shape. Check out the Let the Sun Shine- Sunglass Picks Catalogue for my picks for face shapes and style coordination to help you with find the best look for you. P.S You're lucky if you have an oval face. This means you can pretty much wear any shape lens!

NOW LET’S GET TO THE STYLING TIPS FOR EVERY KIND OF LOOK

BOHEMIAN LOOK

Are you a Boho Woman that dresses with a free spirit? Why not let this style reflect in your eye wear. I say get inspired by the John Lennon round frames. You can play with the size of the lens plus also incorporate some FUN Style Colors as well.

One Style REALLY Fits ALL!

Are you looking for an everyday sunglass that can be partnered with a casual weekend look or business office attire?

Say no more…

I suggest RayBan styles to my clients because there are some classic shapes like the Wayfarer frame and the Mirrored Aviator frame that can be a great match for every style.

Athletic Style

Are you in the fitness industry and the Athletic style speaks to you?

Here are my suggestions:

~ Choose Comfort and Function as a priority

~ Look for Polarized Glasses to avoid the glare for your outdoor activities

~ Look for non slip temples and nose pieces

~ Oakley has a new Women’s line that are light weight, polarized, non slip, breathable technology and SUPER STYLISH!

Feminine Look

Are you ready to get a fashion frame to accentuate your daily feminine look?

~ Cat eye is the perfect option for a "Fashion Frame" or Feminine look.

~ Choose a bold frame with some embellishments to highlight your beautiful facial features

~ Butterfly frame shapes and Hexagon frame shapes can really give you the sleek feminine look you are searching for.

Edgy City Chic

Are you willing to try new looks and are more on the edgy side of style.

I say Let’s have some FUN with Style!

~ Choose a Fashion Frame

~ Try Unique shapes and colors

~ Check out L.A.M.B by Gwen Stefani for fun shapes, bold frames, and great color combos.

You’re ready to now match your sunglasses to your everyday style or even mix it up. Share your sunglass styling photos with me on Instagram @therealchachaolivia in stories or use #ChachaOliviaStyleTips! I can’t wait to see your Summer looks.

As always my beautiful ladies, I offer free, no-obligation 30 minute calls for those who want to learn more about working with me. I’m not kidding…this is a chance to chat with me for 30 minutes about your questions, your fashion and styling needs, and your wonderings about working together. No stress, no commitment, just a good chat. I hop to chat with you very soon!

Fashionable Yours,

---

You Might Like These Similar Blog Posts

It's Officially Fall And It's Still Hot...What Do I Wear?!

It’s officially Fall and it’s upwards of 85 degrees in Florida! This is the time of year when I miss New England the most. I miss the leaves changing colors and the drops in temperature. I miss wearing chunky sweaters paired with boots and lighting fires. I especially miss Fall in New England when I have to remind myself that it is in fact October here! It’s still sooo hot. There isn’t a transition into Fall Fashion and we don’t have “sweatah weathah” yet.

Our first Halloween in Florida. I remember how odd this looked to me.

I remember selling our snowblower to a man relocating from Florida to CT. His exact words to me were “You’re kids are going to hate it, it will be too hot to wear Halloween costumes!” My reply to him? “Well, yours will be as equally unhappy because they will have to wear a coat over theirs!” Well, as much as I know I was right, he was right too! We have been pretty fortunate this Fall, it has been much cooler for September than I can remember in the past couple of years.

So, how do we dress for Fall and still keep cool until the temps drop a bit? Here are a few of my tips to look “Fall” in warmer climates and still keep cool.

Not quite ready for a full on boot…I suggest bringing out mules of all heel heights.

Link to Catalogue:

https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/672H&SMgqj

I have tried wearing boots when it was 80 degrees and I thought I would die. Not only was it too heavy, but it was too hot! My suggestion here would be to wear backless shoes and boots known as mules. There are so many cute styles right now and lots of heel heights. Your toes are covered so you feel like you have a full boot on but your heel is out so you’re still cool! Can’t beat that!!

Wear lightweight, short sleeve or sleeveless toppers.

Link to Catalogue:

https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/672H&SrUs5

I pull out very light, airy toppers. Kimono style toppers always add a nice finish to a tank/tee or shorts/denim. Choose kimono’s with deeper jewel tones to feel more “Fall.” Vests are always a great option because they add the 3rd piece of interest to complete a look (without a lot of weight). My favorite is this short sleeve denim jacket…it doesn’t owe me a penny!!

Speaking of Color…Choose tees and tops in Jewel Tones. The weight will still be the same but the color will make you feel like your seasons are in fact, really changing.

Link To Catalogue:

https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/672H&S3EiX

Solid colored tees are always very easy to find. They will easily coordinate back with neutral bottoms or jeans. Finish it off with a cool rayon fabric scarf or wrap.

Choose Cotton/Poplin Casual Pants instead of Shorts.

Link To Catalogue:

https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/672H&SaJLJ

I’m always a fan of cotton/poplin pants for a casual look. Khaki is a great neutral option but I love the deep hues offered for Fall. This denim skirt is super cute and can take you almost anywhere too! There are many crop pants out there with fun side stripe details to add a little flair. Consider it a nod to the military trend that’s so popular right now.

Bring out the “Winter Whites” and soft neutral tones.

Link To Catalogue:

https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/672H&S5pU8

This is not to say that I don’t think you can wear white or it’s wrong to wear white. I personally just don’t wear white come October(ish). I love pulling out winter whites and creams and combining them for an overall soft tonal look. The lighter colors will certainly be cooler but the layered look will “feel Fall.”

If you’re experiencing your own “personal Summers” and the thought of trying to “transition to Fall” in the higher 80 degree temps just isn’t your thing….

Link To Catalogue:

https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/672H&SBtA0

There is always changing up your nail color!

I hope you enjoyed my Transition Picks! See you next week when I’ll chat with you about Fashion Regrets!

Fashionably yours,

PS Little heads up…some of my suggestions may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more but I may earn a small commission, which helps my keep the lights on! Thank you!

---

You Might Also Like These Blog Posts

How To Stay Cool and Still Dress Professionally!

I miss the days of a professional look. Even when I was in retail and had more leeway with my clothing, I loved “dressing for work.” It’s no secret that, upon first glance, people “size you up” and make assumptions about you based on “how” you look.

I just talked about this in “Teaching My Teens How They Dress Matters.” I tell my kids all the time, it’s important to think about what you wear and what it says about you. When working in a professional environment, you should dress how you want to be perceived: knowledgeable, mature, and experienced.

I have to apologize. How could I go through Summer and tell you how to dress cool in the steamy heat without covering professional dress?!

So, how’s your summer wardrobe? I don’t mean your weekend casual looks of sundresses and beachwear. I have been thinking about your office. Life in Florida can be so casual that I often forget about professional dress! I met my friend a couple of weeks ago, outside an office building, to snap some photos for the blog. I was a little early, so I was walking around looking for some areas to take pictures. I couldn’t help but notice women coming in and out of the building and what they were wearing. It was upwards of 95* but I was surprised by their outfits. Flip flops? Really? Ribbed cotton tank tops? It is fair to say that I don’t know how “casual” the offices were in the building and there are so many office “dress policies” maybe this was “ok?” Maybe not.

You might not be the woman wearing flip flops or tank tops. However, you may find it difficult to find items that will keep you cool and also look professional. If you aren’t sure, follow my list of guidelines below to help you dress in a professional manner that will also help you stay cool.

So, here it is, my list of Do’s and Don’ts for the office.

• No Flip Flops, or for that matter any sandal that exposes all of your toes.

• No Shorts.

• No Spaghetti Strap Tops. No Tops where any part of your bra is exposed.

• No Mini Skirts. Skirt lengths are difficult because there are so many and even really long skirts can look unprofessional. I would suggest going as close to the knee as possible.

• No cleavage.

• No strapless tops, strapless dresses or tube tops.

• No sheer fabrics, unless it’s a top with a cami underneath.

• No to anything that has a naturally wrinkled look. I love the lightweight washable linen items but save those for the weekends.

Okay, so what’s left?

• Peep toe pumps, wedge peep toe shoes, loafers, ballet flats.

• Ankle pants

• Breezy blouses. Washable silks are always great because they don’t have to be dry cleaned and are super cool.

• Sleeveless knit tops or blouses. Be sure to look under the arm to make sure your bra doesn’t show.

• Pencil skirts.

• Lightweight fabrics and lighter colors are important

• My favorite professional, keep cool items to recommend are dresses. They are the easiest items to wear, they don’t require extra layers. If they are sleeveless you can always add a cardigan or blazer to wear over them in the ac.

I love dresses so much I created a “catalogue” of looks that are all shoppable. You can access them here…Professional Summer Dresses!

These are the dresses in my shoppable catalogue-Professional Summer Dresses!

While I will always select the best items for you, some of the links included may be automatically affiliated. This helps support my business. If you choose any, thank you!

Happy Shopping and Keep Cool!

Fashionably yours,

---

You Might Also Like These Blog Posts