10 Ways To Keep Cool And Still Look Stylish In The Humid Summer Months-According To Chacha-Olivia

Auguste - Mila Muse Maxi Dress from Vagabond Apparel Boutique in North Palm Beach

It has taken a long time for me to adjust to the Florida Summers. I remember saying to Anthony, “Will I ever wear a sweater again?!” Not that it didn’t get hot in Connecticut or Massachusetts, it’s just that the Summers in Florida linger from June until October, if you’re lucky.

The move to Florida came at a crazy time in my life. I was beginning to have my “own personal Summers!” Greaaaat! Humidity, Temperatures upwards of 90 degrees and the change of life!

Everyone has a different opinion of what he/she tends to feel cooler wearing. Some of us run hot and some of us run cold. However, I wanted to give you some cute Summer outfit tips that are cool and yet stylish for me.

1) It’s always cooler in the shade so why not try a hat? I like to find the ones that are light weight and have fairly wide brims.

I love this one classic Fedora from Eugenia Kim…Eugenia Kim-Packable-Lillian. The Eugenia Kim product is a little pricier but with an email sign-up you can receive a percentage off your first purchase.

TheEugenia Kim website has a whole section on packable hats and they even suggest hats based on your face shape! Way to go Eugenia!

I also love Helen Kaminski. Here’s a cute new style that comes in a couple color combo’s. I personally like the natural/white combo. Check it out here…Helen Kaminski Kamali 12

If you don’t think you’ll need a hat that often, but you’d like to give it a try, the one I’m wearing above is from JCrew. I’ve had it a long time and probably didn’t spend more than $39 on it.

2) I am much cooler in natural fabrics like cotton and linen. I personally find they breathe better. I often hear “I don’t like linen, I don’t like how wrinkled it looks.” I personally love washable linens. CP Shades and Artists and Revolutionaries design great pieces that are so light and breezy! They also are not meant to look stiff and crisp. Start by trying just a top. I bet you might change your mind!

Check it out here…Regina Top CP Shades

This is one of my personal favs. It has been on the CP Shades line for years. It also doubles as a swimsuit coverup!

This top also comes in solid colors. It washes and wears beautifully. I have literally had mine for years!

Check them out here…Alice and Olivia Fayen Platform

3) While we are talking about natural fabrics I’d like to say the same is true when it comes to shoes. Anything with a synthetic lining will fire up your feet. Sandals with leather or jute insoles are the coolest. Love this little platform from Alice and Olivia. The lining is leather and the foot bed is jute. Winner!

Bombas-No Show Socks with Heel Grip.

4) I always wear “peds” with my sneakers. I find, even with leather sneakers, a sock will help with keeping my feet cool. I’m fond of the ones by Bombas. Please! Purchase the “no show” ones! You don’t want your socks sticking out of those cute sneakers. Bombas donates a pair for every pair sold and they are made of ultra fine gauge cotton. See them here…Bombas No Show Socks

James Perse Crew Neck Slub Tee

James Perse V Neck Slub Tee

5) Wear color! Stay away from black as much as possible. If you need to go darker, try navy. Black absorbs all the light and heat! Colored tees, and fun prints are great for the Summer months. I wear a lot of Black and it makes such a difference when I put on whites, creams or colors. Especially light ones. You have probably heard me talk about this tee before.

The James Perse Crew Neck Slub Tee is lightweight and isn’t clingy but gives a nice shape and comes in a ton of colors. If you’re not a crew neck fan, it also comes in v-neck! James Perse V-Neck Slub Tee.

Mitchell Boyfriend Chino from Blessed Boutique Fashion in Palm Beach Gardens

6) I personally don’t like to wear shorts. I have never really been comfortable showing a lot of leg. However, I mostly don’t like to wear shorts because I don’t find them cool. I dislike sticking to benches or chairs when outside. Getting into a hot car with leather seats can be painful! I love ankle pants or capris in soft fabrics, again mostly natural ones. I like to throw on any basic white tee or graphic one and I’m out the door. You have heard me talk about these Mitchell Boyfriend Chino. They come in a variety of colors and just went on sale so ACT FAST! If you sign up with email you also get $25 off purchase. (Full Price items) There are many ankle pants/crop pants out there. These are my favs. I completely understand why the company’s tag line is “Makers of the World’s Best Fitting Pant”

Mumu -Two Piece Set from Vagabond Apparel Boutique in North Palm Beach

7) I love soft flowy fabrics that come away from the body. I find skirts or dresses that are light in fabric and flow away from the body to be much cooler. The one in the top picture is a dream! It’s from one of my all time favorite stores, Vagabond Apparel in North Palm Beach. Here’s another two piece outfit from Vagabond. Not only is it cool but it’s versatile!

Volt Designs-From Definitely Wendy - Instagram MA

8) Shift dresses are also cooler…I like how they just skim the body, give a nice shape and don’t stick! This one, by Volt designs, is so cool and comfortable. It’s extra comfy because it works well with kicks!

9) Keep your hair off your neck and face! Long hair-wear it in a sweeping pony or messy bun…short hair-pinned back with all the fun hair accessories out now! Give it a whirl! It makes a huge difference!

10) And finally, lighten up on the jewelry! I have staples that I stick to all year but once the heat kicks up I use statement earrings and light weight necklaces and bracelets to complete my looks.

I hope you find my tips for staying cool helpful! Head on over to Instagram when you try them, and let me know how you feel. Tag @therealchachaolivia. I’d love to hear from you!

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Here's What Dads "Really" Want for Father's Day. According to some of My Favorite Dads.

A good friend of mine recently suggested writing a blog on Creative Gift Ideas for Father’s Day. I often struggle with gift ideas for men, so as much as I thought this was a great idea I was at a bit of a loss for suggestions!

Don’t you just love when you nail a gift!? There are times when I have been right on the money with an idea but many more times when I’m at a loss. I don’t know about you, but the men in my life usually say “I don’t want or need anything or they are so specific that there isn’t a surprise element involved.

So, I decided to ask 3 very special dads in my life to give me ideas on things they’d love or great gifts they have received in the past. Here’s what they came up with…

Kris Kory and his very special family..Laurie, Francesca, Jameson, Hudson and Benny.

From my Dear Friend Kris…

A membership to the Dollar Shave Club. Not only are their shavers terrific, I also like the antiperspirant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and their One wipe Charlies are awesome for travel.

I liked this idea so much I ordered one already!

“Create a couple of swappable Pop Grips with Family pictures of kids or favorite pets.  This was a real winner for me for Mothers Day! I would love one for my own phone.” Check them out here…Customizable Pop Sockets. There is still plenty of time to order!

There have been many times when I’m searching for my readers and I find them on my hubby!!

Kris was being thoughtful when he suggested this one. “Sick of your hubby borrowing your nice reading glasses all the time? Get him his own pair. These extremely affordable glasses are super durable and look amazing on. Not sure what strength? Try 1.25.” You can find them here…ICU Readers for Men. They also carry a sunglass version!

Kris also suggested these items…

“Vuori Kore shorts are my favorite workout shorts. They are super light and comfortable with an anti-odor lining so no need for extra underwear, you feel secure. They also make the Vuori Tradwind Tee. Its light weight and wicks away sweat so you stay cool.  The fabric is soft as butter and I like the little pocket that gives it a little edge from a regular t-shirt.” Find them here.. Vuori Kore Shorts and here…Vuori Tech Top.

From “Brutha,” my brother in law, John…

John with my sister Alexis and my beautiful niece and nephew, Nick and Lana.

John suggested some quiet time with a great book. He’s an avid reader. Some of his thoughts were…

Some of John’s all time favorites…
The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics

Outliers (You could pick any Gladwell book-I love them all.) Outliers: The Story of Success

I Never Played the Game 1st edition by Howard Cosell

A Newer Book on John’s List to Read…

Motherless Brooklyn by Jonathan Lethan

Why not pair it with a Hammock? This was something we gave my own Dad years ago and he got a lot of use out of it! Find it here…Patio Hammock.

This made me think, if the Dad in your life does a lot of driving an audible book club could be a great idea. Check this one out from Amazon…Membership to Audible Books. You can try it out for 30 days free!

John also suggested any type of Whiskey or Bourbon…Check these out…Bourbon Mixers. Spice up your bourbon with these fun mixers from Morris Kitchen direct from Brooklyn.

Pair these with some great Whiskey Glasses. See them here…Norlan Whiskey Glass Set

LOML, (Anthony) with “Little A”, Chacha and me!

And, finally from Anthony, LOML…

Anthony is all about relationships and experiences.

He would love a Kayaking Day or Paddling Day. One of our favorite local places to go is Jupiter Outdoor Center. You can rent a Kayak or Canoe and head down the Loxahatchee River. If you’re in CT, try Collinsville Canoe and Kayak.

Pairing any of these outdoor activities with Vissla board shorts, Avid Swim Shirt and Avid Sun Hat, all from Vagabond Apparel Boutique would make the gift complete!

Mystic Yoga -Juno Beach.

Anthony recently tried a Thai Massage and loved it so much we had a couples night with one. In Thai massage, the therapist puts you through a series of stretches that cover the entire body. Thai massage also includes deep-pressure point work to stimulate the body's energy pathways. We love this one if you’re local to Juno, Mystic Yoga.

Anthony also suggested trying a new fitness training, either Pilates or Yoga. He loves the way he feels after a good stretch. The older we get the harder it is to stay flexible. Stretching is so important. Again, locally try Mystic Yoga and in CT try Korlates Fitness.

Cotton “Chili” shirt from Jachs, New York and Avid shorts.

Anthony has been a big fan of these shorts and tops from Vagabond Apparel in North Palm Beach. I love Vagabond because they outfit the whole family! Check them out here…Vagabond Apparel Boutique.

And finally, probably one of the best Father’s Day gifts we ever purchased for Anthony, was this Tumi Tyndall Utility Backpack. He uses it every day for work and always for travel. He loves all the storage. There is even an area for water bottles. Big plus…it slides over the handle of his carry on!

Hopefully some of these items will make your Father’s Day shopping a little easier! I hope the Dads in your life have a special day!

10 Key Items That Are Must-Haves This Spring. According to Me!

Yup, 10 items, according to me. Not according to any top designers, just me! Most of these pieces are key staples that I go back to every Spring. I like to have these things in my wardrobe and I believe they are the “go to’s” that will carry me through the Spring/Summer Season. I like to think of them as the building blocks of my wardrobe at this time of year.

1) Let’s start with the most basic of basic. A white tee is a must have. Most likely it needs to be refreshed every Spring/Summer. I often purchase two. I like having a back up in these because I wear them so much! They are great on their own but I also love them as layering pieces. Pair it with just about any bottom and add a denim vest for interest. I love love love wearing them under blazers. One of my favorites…James Perse. See here…Basic White Tee. I keep one black in my wardrobe too. I love that James Perse always seems to have this on the line.

2) Next stop…black knit dress. You have probably heard me talk about this dress before. A number of companies make one similar but my favorite is from Michael Stars. It is a weighty fabric with ruching down the sides, it’s also machine washable. I like to say that I love ruching because it hides my own “personal ruching.” I pair this with kicks or heels. So it can take you from casual to dress. It’s also a great travel piece! It comes in sleeveless and 3/4 sleeves and best part…if you love it as much as I do it comes in colors!!! Check it out here…Michael Stars Faux Wrap Midi Dress.

3) Denim Jacket! We hear this all the time and it’s true! It’s such a great staple. I pair it with so much and during seasonal transitions it’s a great piece to have. There are so many different versions out there. If you don’t have one yet I would recommend one that has a little more shape and isn’t oversized or long. This way you can wear it over many different things. Check this one out…Shaped Denim Jacket.

4) A fun pair of kicks. I am still so busy running with my kids after school! I love fun sneakers to spruce up an outfit. They don’t have to have a lot of stuff on them in fact they can be pretty plain. I like any pair that looks doesn’t look like you are going to the gym or on a run. Try these! RLD by Meline. The other wonderful thing about this particular brand is it’s made in Italy and doesn’t break the bank like another popular brand right now!

5) A cotton crop pant. Again, any leg style. I like to keep a basic on hand but after coming out of the winter months you might feel the need to add some color. If not, Khaki is always a great option! Sundry makes one that has a stripe down the side and comes in a slew of colors…I am fond of the pink one but take your pick. Any color would work with all the basics listed! Check them out here…Sundry Le Soleil Pant

6) A pair of cropped jeans. They can be tapered, bootleg, or boyfriend. I just recently tried Frame Denim and love the fit and amount of stretch. This particular one will look great with heels, flats, boots, and kicks. Check it out…Frame -Crop-Curve Hem Jean.

7) A hat! For so many reasons…protection from the sun, an accessory to any outfit and to hide the last day before a shampoo!!! I love the look of a classic Fedora…Check this one out…Eric Javits Classic Fedora. Wear this style with anything from shorts to dresses!

8) A great pair of mules. Even though I can wear open toe pretty much all year long, I still think of all my ladies in New England. I love a mule because you can wear something more open but those toes are still protected from that Spring chill. Check out the Nic & Zoe Calle Mule in Python. It will go with everything!

9) A white blouse, preferably one that has more shape to it. Like the ones from Frank and Eileen. I love the Barry fit. I am crushing on this butterfly print and even though I recommended white, you may already own a white blouse so check this one out…Frank & Eileen, Barry-Crinkle Butterfly Blouse. There are lots of patterns to choose from and this one has a crinkle finish so no ironing necessary. Isn’t that a HUGE plus?!

10) There’s nothing better than being hands free. I love a belt bag. The new updated versions are great because you can wear them cross body. Of course you can go for basic black but I thought this would be a great way to add some spice to some of the basics I gave you above. Check out this one…Clare-V, Snake Embossed Belt Bag.

I hope you enjoy my picks! I’d love to hear from you! If you try them, take a photo and tag @therealchachaolivia so I can check them out!!

Reflections on a Beauty Make-Over.

Just recently I was asked by a client “Where do I go to get my make-up done?” As always, I was honest…I said “Oh God, I haven’t done that in so long!” I felt a little guilty admitting that. I mean, I’m a stylist. I help women look and feel fabulous. “How could I stop at clothing and let my make-up or skin care go?” So, I started searching out different lines and make-up artists and decided to try one.

I normally don’t have my make-up done for events. I usually just do my own for fear I’ll head out to the event not looking like myself. So, I avoided it until a couple of weeks ago. I wanted to give it a go because it honestly has been over 4 years since I had my make-up refreshed and for that matter my skin care. I pick up skin care products here and there but haven’t gone through a start to finish routine with a line in forever.

I found Christina, in Palm Beach Gardens, at the YSL counter in Nordstroms. She was recommended by Tina, the great lady who helps me with my perfume obsession! Christina asked me questions about my lifestyle and my comfort zone. I told her looks I like but hesitate to try because it seems like “too much make-up.” She really listened and I felt very comfortable with her. I left that counter feeling so good. I felt refreshed and certainly myself, just updated!

I was so pleased with my make-up and with the way my skin felt the day after my event, that I talked to Christina about hosting a “YSL Master Class.” I was to invite some friends, and Christina and two other YSL colleagues would guide us through a tutorial on the YSL skincare routine and make-up application.

I think it’s safe to say we all felt refreshed and beautiful. Everyone left with goodie bags of YSL products and Tina even had perfume samples for us to take home! It was so much fun being pampered. And, 5 of us( who really don’t know each other all that well), enjoyed some much needed girl time!

The most thought provoking comment I heard after the event was “Theo, I just didn’t realize how much I let myself go.” And, I felt the same way. Self care means different things to different people. The way I look and dress says a lot about how I feel about myself.

If you read my post “I. Feel. Pretty,” (you can read it here,) you would see why this type of self care is important to me. We all get busy. We put off things like facials or manicures because they fall so far down the priority list. I came away holding on to that incredible feeling of being refreshed and updated. I also felt this from the women who were with me. It was fun watching one another transform. I loved listening to the compliments and suggestions.

So, whatever it is that may rejuvenate you…I suggest doing it more often! Go for the make-over and then to lunch with some friends. Take a hike with the love of your life. Spend time reading or picking out a new outfit. Find that “thing” that puts a spring in your step and do more of it.

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What should I buy Mom for Mother's Day? What would I like for Mother's Day?

My mom and I before we moved to Florida.

I LOVE giving gifts. The look on someone’s face when you nail a gift is priceless. To me, giving a gift that really excites someone can be like receiving a gift in return!

After talking to my husband about this post I began to think about how daunting purchasing a gift can be for someone. It doesn’t have to be about Mother’s Day, we could be talking about birthdays or holidays. You may not be a shopper. You may want to purchase something for someone that they’d never purchase for themselves. You may want to get them something they really would like. You may be the kind of person who surprises them with a gift they’d love but never thought they wanted! Gift giving takes some thought and with Mother’s Day around the corner you may be wondering “What am I going to get my mom?” or “My kids keep asking me what I’d like to do/have?”

It’s really important to think carefully about the gift giving process. When someone takes the time to purchase a gift, they really want you to like it or use it. My advice here…be honest! Before I dole out some gift ideas, I’d love for you to think about the person that is receiving the gift. Ask yourself some questions…

*Is this person someone who is really specific about what they like?

*Does this person “have everything?”

*Does this person love quality time or need more time?

*How old is this person?

*Does the person have favorite places to shop?

*Does the person have an online wish list?

*And, of course we can’t forget the budget!

These things are also important to keep in mind when people are asking “What would you like to do or maybe receive, especially around Mother’s Day?”

Answer these questions honestly! If you are the type of person who needs some “down time,” it’s ok to ask for it. If you have been eyeing a new piece of jewelry or an “experience gift,” it’s ok to say so. Tell them what you’re thinking. And, if you liked to be surprised and don’t really care, let them know that too. Keep in mind that sometimes, the person purchasing the gift may really be stuck and that’s why they are asking!

I wanted to give you some gift ideas for all different types of moms, because not all moms enjoy the same things. And, no matter how you answer the questions above, there is something here for everyone. Happy Shopping!

For the Mom who loves jewelry…

Darcy Melanson - custom jewelry, I’m ogling this Rutilated Quartz Ring set in Sterling Silver, Darcy also designs the Heart Necklace you’ve seen me wear. I love it! She is so talented. Check her out here…Darcy Melanson Instagram.

Darcy has a wide variety of custom pieces. At very reasonable prices.

Lola and Etkie Bracelets…you know how much I wear these. The are my favs and staples in my daily jewelry. The are stocked at Ava Grace Gifts…find them here…Ava Grace Gifts

I am especially crushing on this new ID bracelet from Lola. I IV III stands for “I love you” It’s the light signal at the Nantucket Light House. The back says “madly.”

For the Mom who loves the gift of Quality Time…

These Paint By Number Sets by Pink Picasso at Ava Grace Gifts are a wonderful way to spend time and have a beautiful piece of art after! Check them out here…Ava Grace Gifts

Policy Handbags-Great for any”stadium” event-because they are stadium approved!

I love the idea of putting concert tickets or theatre tickets in this handbag as a “quality time” gift. You can find these fabulous bags at Curate Clothes Boutique

For the Silly Mom…

I would love to wear this on a baseball cap or jean jacket! Find it here…Bossy Mom Pin. Maybe I’m old fashioned and mom’s don’t say this anymore?

For the Mom who Loves Bird Watching…

This Bird Feeder Really works and is a hoot to watch!!! We purchased this for my mom (and dad) and they loved it! Find it here…Squirrel Free Bird Feeder

For the Mom Who Loves Special Momentos…

I have wanted to do this for a long time. I think it’s so sweet! Although, I would put my own family on it! LOL Find it here…Shutterfly Customized Phone Case Covers

For the Mom whose Phone is Her Life, (besides her kids)…

These Phone cases come in all sizes, colors and I can’t live without it! You can customize different straps too. They just came out with a great denim one! Check them out here…Bandolier Phone Case. You can find these on my Carry On Must Have’s mentioned in my Pack Like A Pro Post.

For the Mom who says “You don’t have to get me anything.” and means it, or the mom who has everything.

Hand poured in the USA USING 100% Soy Fragrance oils and cotton wick. The packaging is just as special as the candle. MOM- 1) One who is cherished, admired and deeply loved. 2) a woman who is absolutely never wrong about anything. Ever. 3) You

Find these at Ava Grace Gifts.

I hope you enjoyed the thoughts and ideas. Enjoy your Mother’s Day…however you choose to spend it!