At LOTELI we are taking the Mommy & Me matching swimsuit trend to the next level with some very special Mommy & Me matching Pool Floats. Our Mini White Heart Pool Float is designed to nest inside any of our Original Heart Pool Floats, available in White, Pink, Red, Gold, Magenta or Clear. You can pick up the matching set in white, or mix and match your pool floats according to your mood (or bikini!). We love this cheeky red and white combination.
Meanwhile, this adorable pink and white heart shaped pool float combination with matching flamingo-print swimsuits will make all your Instagram dreams come true :)
Whether you're rocking a bump in your maternity swimsuit, have multiple minis or just want to match with your favorite kiddo, it's hard to go wrong with classic white stripes. We love this floral swimsuit with the preppy blue stripes combined with our Mini White Heart and Original White Heart Pool Floats.
What do you think of this trend? We're all about it and can't wait to start matching our swimsuits and pool floats for family fun this summer.
]]>Available in two styles, the Clear Cassette and the Mixtape Cassette, Noe describes them as "sure to make helicopter pilots do a double-take".
It's always flattering for us to have LOTELI pool floats featured by designers! LOTELI is a business, yes, but also a creative outlet and a place for imagining and building. From ideas to sketches to actual objects in people's pools - it's a journey we never get tired of.
Friends love to ask us what we are going to 'supersize' next. Creating giant pool floats for adults is something we love doing, so only time will tell. In the meantime, thanks for the feature, Core 77!
]]>
It's no secret that here at LÔTELI we love our pool floats. Right now, we're especially into Clear Pool Floats for their minimal aesthetic that blends into the surroundings - it makes you look like you're floating mid-air!
Many people have heard of the gorgeous Jane Birkin, the English-French singer and actress known for her beauty, bohemian lifestyle and marriage to poet Serge Gainsberg. Of course, she is also famous for being the muse for the ultra-covetable Hermès Birkin bag loved by celebrities.
In this image below from the mid-1960s Birkin is shown reclining in a retro chair-style clear pool float, cocktail in hand. We adore the pared-back glamor of this shot, from the relaxed expression on Birkin's face to the contrast of the snowy mountains outside. It's the ultimate in après-ski chic.
The second image is from 2021, taken by Australian photographer Cameron Hammond and featuring LÔTELI pool floats. Famous for his candid shots of some of the world's most beautiful women, in this scene Cameron captures a late afternoon in the pool. Similar to the first image, we love the relaxed feel, the light, and the natural beauty of the girls.
We don't see clear pool floats very often (in fact, we think we might be the only ones making them...) but it's interesting to know they have such a chic history!
To see more of our Clear Collection (and to create a Jane Birkin moment of your own) be sure to check them out here.
]]>
It's nearly Valentines Day! If you are someone who doesn’t typically decorate your home for Valentines Day we are hoping to change your mind with a genius Valentines Day décor hack we’ve been seeing on Instagram. That is... Heart Shaped Pool Floats as Valentines Day Décor!
]]>That is...
That’s right! We’ve been watching this trend for a couple of winters now where people are bringing their pool floats out of storage and and using them as party props, to decorate for a dinner or gathering, or just to brighten up their homes in February.
We are super into this idea for a few reasons. First, our LOTELI heart pool floats are lightweight but also BIG, so if you are decorating on a budget an oversized pool float is a great way to put a large decoration in a space for relatively little investment.
It also means if you are traveling somewhere and hosting a party, you can pack a couple of heart floaties in your suitcase and have them blown up and ready to go in minutes when you get to your destination. Also, you can get different colored heart pool floats and mix and match to suit your party spirit. We love the Magenta Heart Float mixed with the Clear Heart Float, or a classic combination of the White Heart Float with the Red Heart Float. Big impact with very minimal effort (winning!).
So, if you’re like us and just hanging out for Spring and Summer, we'll just put this little thought out there – Valentines Day is a fun holiday that you can celebrate right now and inject a little color back into winter. Here are some of our top selling designer pool floats for some inspiration.
]]>
From beach-ready daytime looks to summery gifts that make a statement – the perfect gifts for the sun-seekers on your list is right here. If there are few people on your list who would rather be escaping to the beach than hitting the slopes then you may need a little inspiration. Read on for our little round up of some perfect gifts for the jet-setting, sun-seeking, beach-loving girls on your list.
This v-neck dress is an effortlessly fun style that can be worn for morning coffees, to the beach, or out to dinner on vacation! It is designed with an easy fit that is cut to flatter any figure.
This beautiful clear swim ring by LOTELI has appeared in fashion editorials for some very major brands. If your friend is always planning their next warm-weather getaway then they will love our Clear Ring Float or Clear Lounger Pool Float.
Sunnies, hat—check. These oversized square frames are made in Italy and come fitted with pink gradient lenses. For your jet-setting island friend, these gorgeous oversized shades will be an easy addition to her carry-on.
A beautiful piece like this can be paired with everything from swimwear to dresses and t-shirts. The style and finish is truly classic. Another summer classic is our Classic Cassette Tape Pool Float. It's an oversized clear pool float lounger with a realistic cassette tape design. We think they'd make the perfect pair as a gift bundle.
Nothing says 'beach weather' like a raffia tote bag. This one is designed to mimic the shape and textured surface of sea shell (cute!). It's reinforced with leather trims and decorated with a small charm, and has long handles that'll slip comfortably on your shoulder. We think there would even be room for a heart shaped pool float (for extra summery vibes).
For the bride-to-be, bestie or worth-her-weight-in-gold girlfriend in your life - this gold heart float by LOTELI is sure to impress. Our customers love this one for ocean floats because it truly pops against dark blue water. And unlike a huge float, the heart float packs up small to fit in a regular carry-on with ease.
Hopefully this list has inspired you to think outside the box for your holiday gifts this year! We are confident the special items here will be given you a little inspiration for your . Read on for our little round up of some perfect gifts for the jet-setting, sun-seeking, beach-loving girls on your list.
]]>
Last month, Katie B. Happy, yoga teacher, educator and founder of 501c b_inspired, held her annual 'Tubes for Boobs' breast cancer awareness charity float event. Katie, who sadly lost her mother to breast cancer, has held this event in all weathers for twenty years now, drawing a crowd of friends and supporters together for day of fun on the water.
The team did an incredible job of inflating dozens of designer pool floats and swim rings to make sure everyone had a river-worthy vessel. Once in the water, they made rafts of floats using ropes, huge floats and swim rings of all sizes to make sure everyone stayed together (the best way to share drinks and snacks mid-float). Our Blonde and Brunette Swim Rings came in handy for their strength and size (yes to the two-person cozy float!).
Katie is a long-term friend of LOTELI and we just want to congratulate her on the 20th anniversary of this amazing event. It looks like it was an absolute blast!!
Scroll down for more pics from the day!
]]>When it came to styling the pool, @alifetoliv didn't want to detract from the beautiful setting and stunninggroup of friends. So, she decided to use a variety of minimalist clear lounger pool floats and clear swim ring floats, with white inflatable beach balls thrown into the mix for height and variety. A flat, tray-style float was used to serve delicious movie snacks like candy and popcorn in individual bags.
One reason why this set-up is so beautiful is that even if a breeze comes up, your pool still appears full of floats. When it comes to pool party styling, we recommend using either one huge float or else a lot of smaller floats to fill the pool. This way, when the breeze blows you won't end up with all of your floats in one corner and an empty-looking pool.
As 'golden hour' hit, this gorgeous crew was able to take some incredible photos with styling props from the best pool float brand (we might be biased...) :)
Once the sun set, it was time to get in the pool so the show could start!
Legally Blonde was the movie of choice. As it began to play on the big screen everyone found their favorite pool float, grabbed some snacks and bobbed around watching the show.
Now that we think about it, the Clear Lounger Pool Float is kind of perfect for a 'Dive-In' movie night because not only does it have a cup holder (handy!), it also has a built-in pillow for taking your chill-out to the next level.
We just love the creativity that went into this incredible event! It goes to show, it doesn't take designer pool floats and fancy catering to create a chic, photogenic summer event.
Instead, it took some clear pool floats, a movie projector, a fun group of friends and a little creativity to make this night such a success. Congratulations @alifetoliv and thank you for letting LOTELI be a part of your event!
Scroll down for pics!
]]>
The LÔTELI team was excited to find ourselves among Martha Stewart's list of summer pool toys and floats that are guaranteed to make a splash. As a small business we were so happy to see LÔTELI featured alongside big designer pool float brands such as Funboy and Sunnylife.
We're calling it - 2021 is the summer of the clear pool float. At LÔTELI we have one of a kind pool floats that are completely clear. We're talking clear swim rings and clear loungers that you won't see anyone else.
The article describes the Clear Swim Ring as 'A Minimalist's Dream' with a double valve for quicker inflation. Not all floats have this feature so we were delighted her team noticed! This transparent style has been so popular we can barely keep it in stock. It made us super happy to see that clear pool floats are also Martha-approved.
Martha Stewart recommends the LÔTELI Clear Swim ring for adults who want to unwind in the water. We have to agree - this float is as relaxing to look at as it is to float in, and doesn't detract from your beautiful pool and garden!
Thank you to the team at Martha Stewart for the mention! You made our week! We are here and ready to keep your readers entertained with our inflatable floats from Memorial Day weekend right through Labor Day.
]]>This is your chance to go wild with all kinds of decorations in red, white and blue. You don’t need to run out and buy flag-themed decorations, instead get creative with things you already have in those colors, like napkins, glasses, tableware, etc. Red solo cups are actually great for the fourth, especially if you’re hanging by the pool and don’t want any glass in the mix.
Now to the pool – we might be biased but you’re going to need some pool floats! The best pool float brands have floats with features that make them last the distance. Look for extra strength pool floats with reinforced seams, as well as double valves that help you inflate and deflate the float more quickly. LOTELI pool floats come with all of these features. Our white Blonde and Brunette swim rings look amazing paired with our oversized Red Heart floats. Another trend that looks amazing is to pick one float and fill the pool with it. The pictures will look incredible, and you can even let your guests take a float home with them to remind them of the party.
We’re all about easy catering for July 4th pool parties. Burgers are a must, but also look to low-fuss healthy options like grilled shrimp and grilled vegetable kebabs. Summer salads look and taste incredible and make sure even the fussiest guests leave satisfied!
When it comes to drinks, we love mocktails and cocktails with plenty of fruit to keep guests hydrated. Lemonades and fruit punches definitely fit the bill. Don’t forget the ice!
[Images via delish.com, chadsbbq.com, vegnews.com, elletalk.com]
Preppy style is having a major moment in summer ’21 and it’s such an easy look to bring poolside. Match a bikini or board shorts in a bold color with white basics and athletic-inspired accessories like tube socks, tennis skirts and polo shirts. Classic sunglasses complete the look.
[Image via Kule.com]
If you want to keep your guests entertained past lunch then a few activites are in order. We think a snow cone station fits the bill - offer red and blue flavors and invite guests to make their own snow cones.
Also check out #poolfloatchallenge – it’s all over TikTok and is so much fun. Fill your pool with pool floats and then have your guests try to make their way from one side of the pool to the other by jumping from float to float. Large pool floats for adults will make this easier! Give a gold heart shape float to the winner (USA! USA!).
We hope this guide has given you a few ideas on how to throw the ultimate July 4th pool party! Temperatures are on the rise so get ready to dive in and make the most of the summer. We'll see you in the pool!
Aussie swim label Vincija is exactly where sustainable meets sexy. If you’ve been taking advantage of all the free at-home workouts (and even if you haven’t), why not show off that quarantine bod in one of their mega-cute bikinis? We’d happily pair this red floral number with our gold heart shape float, even with our banana-bread-only diet. Flaunt what you’ve got, ladies.
For the total beach party look, we love this beach basket by Kayu (you, me, oui!) and these oversized sunglasses by Le Specs.
When you invest in your summer set up you want to know it’s going to go the distance. At LOTELI we’re all about making extra strength pool floats that last from Memorial Day to Labor Day – and beyond. YETI is another company we love for long-lasting summer gear. The Hopper Flip Soft Cooler keeps food and drinks cold while you’re out and about. The ‘Aquifa Blue’ color would look amazing paired with our Light Pink Heart shape pool float. Throw in a few of these trendy Agua Bucha, a vitamin-infused kombucha sparkling water, for a beach set up that’s fun and photogenic.
If, like us, you haven’t left the house much in the past year you might have forgotten what it’s like to have a flat phone! A portable charger like the Mophie Powerstation has extra ports to keep the whole crew happy while you’re at the beach. Now that we’re able to hug our friends again, a polaroid camera like the Fujifilm Instax Mini is perfect for capturing the moment and taking it home. Speaking of retro vibes, if you ever made a mixtape for a crush then the LOTELI Classic Cassette Tape is going to make your summer. A LÔTELI original, the Classic Cassette is a large pool float in clear light grey. It even has a Side A and Side B so you can flip it over when one side gets too hot. These days, the best pool float brands know the little details matter. That’s why all LOTELI floats come with double valves, extra strength pool float seams and fade-resistant colors. Last but not least, don’t forget the sunscreen!
We hope this pre-Memorial Day round up encourages you to breathe new life into your summer set up! Whatever you have on your radar, get out there and have an amazing Summer 2021 (you’ve earned it!).
]]>For the mom who loves to entertain (or who likes to keep their coffee table looking chic), this stunning new book from Aerin Lauder is a must. It has entertaining ideas for more than 20 celebrations, spanning a year’s worth of gatherings including spring and summer parties. If your Mom’s social calendar is busier than yours (guilty) she will love the tips in this one.
For the mom who loves to be outdoors this summer, this large straw hat is a summer wardrobe MVP. From morning walks to lunches outside and time in the garden, she’ll be thanking you each time she wears it. The best thing about this style is that it is packable, too, so she can fold it up and take it on vacation without worrying about it getting crushed.
If your mom is always telling you to apply sunscreen, she will be super impressed with this set of mini-size beauty products from cult brand Drunk Elephant. The set features some of their best-selling skin care picks, including a jelly cleanser, facial oil, SPF 30 sunscreen, a multivitamin eye cream, and a peptide cream. If your mom’s summer plans include taking out her collection of large pool floats she will love drifting around the pool knowing she’s protected from the sun.
For the mom who likes a glass of wine or two, these thick-stemmed wine glasses will be the perfect addition to her summer table. They come in three pretty shades and can hold a generous pour of her favorite vino. The best part? They can go straight into the dishwasher, meaning less time cleaning up and more time on her favorite heart shape pool float.
For the mom who dreams of a summer in Provence, a traditional French market bag makes a dreamy (and useful!) Mother’s Day gift. Big enough to hold a towel, sunglasses, magazine and gold heart shape float, this straw tote is the perfect size for a day at the beach. From quick trips to the store to a picnic in the park, this is the summer bag she’ll reach for again and again.
For the mom who likes a summer stroll, a cute pair of slide sandals makes a thoughtful gift. With pretty cutout details and a padded footbed, these will take mom from the pool to dinner and everywhere else. With a selection of colors to choose from, we think the gold would be perfect for showing off tanned toes and a summer pedi.
For the mom who likes to research the best pool float brands, and who has more pool floats for adults than for the kids, we recommend styling her Mother’s Day with a little love from LÔTELI. If you can’t quite see her on a flamingo float, a clear pool float from our new collection is a great option for the mom who likes to keep her pool looking stylish. These extra strength pool floats are equally at home as a beach party float as they are just drifting around the pool. Minimal and chic, they will look amazing all summer long.
Whether this Mother's Day is a time for celebration, for honoring a memory, or for recognizing your own strength, we hope this guide inspires you. Happy Mother’s Day from the LOTELI team!
Blondes may have more fun, but they also spend more time at the salon. Help your Blonde friend maintain her fresh color between visits with a hair mask for blondes like Christophe Robin Shade Variation Hair Mask in Baby Blonde or Drybar Blonde Ale Color-Enhancing Brightening Hair Mask.
If she’s a fan of a slogan t-shirt this pink tank from Amazon would be perfect for the gym. A blonde emoji pin from Valley Cruise Press will dress up her Whole Foods tote bag and this coffee cup will keep her Zoom calls stylish. A baseball cap is great for running errands (and protecting from the sun) and this cozy hoodie from Brunette The Label is perfect for when the temperature dips.
If you ask us, summer and pool floats go hand in hand. Floats also make great gifts! The LÔTELI Blonde swim ring is a perfect gift because it’s an oversized float for adults and also super comfortable (so she can drift around the pool all day). A white pool raft is a classic color that will go with any swimsuit, but if travel is on the cards then she might like a white heart shaped pool float that is small and lightweight. We also think a gold heart shaped pool float would be a pretty perfect gift for a blonde best friend! You could even make a summer gift bundle with a pool raft, a beach towel and an unbreakable tumbler.
Gift giving isn’t always easy, but we hope we’ve given a few suggestions for some summer gifts for Blonde best friends. As you can see, there are some seriously adorable (and useful) gifts out there to help you celebrate your friend in style.
]]>If your summer goals include avoiding tan lines at all costs, a classic bandeau style like this black-and-white striped bikini from Anemos Swim is a must. We love the quirky mismatched print and high-waisted bottoms. Continue the black-and-white moment with our LÔTELI Brunette Float for a Bridget Bardot-inspired, Riviera-chic pool party look.
Summer brides-to-be, may we suggest you swiftly add-to-cart this white string bikini by Melissa Odabash? Behold, the delicate straps! The sparkling gold accents! Imagine them catching the late-afternoon sunlight as you flip through bridal magazines on your NYC fire escape. This swimsuit is the yin to our sweatpants’ yang. If you’re taking it poolside, we can see if matching perfectly with our LÔTELI gold heart shape pool float.
If Baywatch was set in Rio de Janeiro, and we were designing the costumes, this is the swimsuit we’d pick. This red bikini from Tropic of C has a leg-lengthening cut and a throw-back classic demi-cup top. We would pair this show-stopping suit with our retro-inspired LÔTELI Classic Cassette pool float lounger.
There’s something about this sophisticated one-piece that promises to make us the better, more put-together versions of our summer selves. We would automatically become good with houseplants, and never forget a birthday. From Australian label BONDI BORN, the chic silhouette and 90s-style neckline are stylish yet understated. We would keep the minimal aesthetic going by pairing this pistachio-hued suit with a large pool float for adults in a transparent design like our LÔTELI Clear Ring.
This adorable tie-front bikini from sustainable label lemlem comes in the prettiest shade of sunset pink. We think it would look amazing with a heart shaped pool float, especially in a matching shade of pink. Watermelon Sugar High!
]]>
As we edge toward greater vaccination rates and warmer weather, people are 'ready to crawl out of the dirt to flirt', the article says. Still, not everyone is racing to embrace pre-pandemic date ideas such as crowded taco spots or live music venues. Instead, the article suggests a few outdoor and socially-distanced date ideas, from the traditional (picnic) to the wacky (dumpster diving?).
Of course, that post-pandemic first date isn't guaranteed to be any less awkward than it was pre-pandemic, so you might need an escape button. For this, the article proposes floating away on our very own Cassette Tape Pool Float. We have to admit, this use case wasn't at the front of our minds when we designed the Cassette Float, but we're here for it! Drifting around the pool on a sunny afternoon sounds way more appealing than making small talk with a stranger in a bar, if you ask us.
LÔTELI pool floats: Helping you escape bad dates in Summer '21.
Thank you VICE for the mention!
]]>We’re sure we’re not the only ones dusting off the passport and planning a trip somewhere (anywhere!). If you’re excited to get away but still wary of crowds, consider getting a group together for a hiking trip, or to rent a house with a pool on AirBnB. To make time by the pool even more relaxing, throw a couple of pool float loungers into your suitcase. Our heart shape pool floats are lightweight, easy to inflate, and come in a range of happy colors.
Sure, we made do with Zoom calls and House Party, but what about actual get-togethers... with other human beings? As soon as it’s safe to do so, we’re planning catch ups with friends and loved ones. As the weather warms up, we can’t wait to meet friends by the beach or at the pool. If you’re the one organizing, consider asking everyone to dress in one color (white parties are a classic summer choice) and coordinate with white or gold heart pool floats.
After the year we’ve had it’s time to lighten things up a little. Luckily, there are a ton of incredible summer toys out there for the young at heart. Think oversized pool floats for adults: inflatable kayaks (we love this clear one), floating speakers, colorful pool rafts, giant inflatable dart boards, and much more. Why let kids have all the fun?
This one needs no further explanation. What’s summer without a little romance?
We hope this list inspires you to start making some fun summer plans. We’ll see you in the pool!
]]>We are about to tip into Spring officially and that means one thing – wedding season is just around the corner! This year promises to be a big one for bachelorette parties with people just starting to gather and travel again. Planning a bachelorette party can be daunting at the best of times, but if your party planning skills are a little rusty post-pandemic we are here to help with a few tips and tricks.
First, we just want to say that we are all about the bachelorette pool party this year. It’s a fun, relaxing way to celebrate the bride-to-be that you can style to suit your group. For a truly Instagrammable bachelorette, be sure to pay attention to both the major details like location and large pool floats, as well as minor details like outfits, snacks and drinks for a party that is truly unforgettable.
Whether you are planning to travel or just staying local, renting a villa with a pool is a relaxing and cost-effective option for any bachelorette party; be it for one night, or the whole weekend. Definitely do your research and plan your decorations ahead of time. Inflatable pool floats for adults make amazing decorations for bachelorette weekends because they are easy to pack, lightweight and look great in photos.
You can also bring them inside the house and use them as photo props there, too. Gold heart shape pool floats work well for this! If space allows, pack an electric air pump so you can blow up all of your large pool floats with less fuss. Inflate all your pool rafts when you arrive to get the villa into party mode on Day 1. When it comes to bachelorette pool party color themes, we love an all-white pool party, or you can keep a white pool raft for the bride and have everyone else on pink, red, or clear heart shaped floats.
Once the pool rafts are inflated, think of other elements to tie together your pool party styling. The sky's the limit here, but even if you're traveling and don’t want to bring too much we suggest an inflatable balloon garland and gift bags for the guests. Match the color of your pool float loungers to the gift bags and fill them with little essentials like lip balm, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, temporary tattoos, tumblers, and hair ties.
Every bachelorette pool party needs a group photo so get creative with matching outfits such as hats, swimsuits and sunglasses. Yes, it’s cheesy, but the bride-to-be will be over the moon when she sees all the cute pics you’ll have together. Mix some large pool floats with baby floats and have everyone throw on matching shades for a pic everyone will want to post. Etsy is a great place to source customized bachelorette party apparel. If you plan well and pick something neutral (like a straw hat) the guests will be able to wear these items right through summer.
@TashOakley
@munaluchibride
@lisahomsy
Get into the festive spirit with drinks and snacks to match your pool party theme. A ‘Final Fiesta’-themed bachelorette in Mexico wouldn’t be complete without margaritas and guac, while a ‘Let’s Get Nauti’ boat-themed bach party needs some aperol spritzes and a colorful fruit platter. Above all, don’t forget the ice!
Image via Walmart.com
It can be tempting to plan every minute of a weekend away but be sure to leave some free time on the schedule. The bride-to-be will appreciate some free time to relax with her best friends before the big day. Also, sometimes those magic moments happen when everyone is just kicking back and relaxing on a pool float in the sunshine. Cheers!
]]>
Is it just us or is this color everywhere for Spring 2021? Romantic and positive, could there be a more perfect color for the Spring following the worst year ever? We think not. Up the romance even further with heart shape pool floats in shades of pink.
Images from Zara
Sheer clothing and shoes are huge this Spring and we can only see that continuing as the weather warms. Bring the clear trend into your pool raft collection this summer with a large pool float in see-through materials. Pool floats for adults can get a little garish – we like to think this minimal float is Marie Kondo-approved.
Images from Need Supply Co., Net-A-Porter
Hands up if you had enough alone time in 2020? After a year or more of social distancing, everyone who can gather safely this year will be looking to do just that. As we head into summer, expect to see fewer home baking posts and more shots of smiling, vaccinated groups of friends. And when the hot weather hits its stride, expect to see them at the beach and poolside. Throw in a few gold heart shape floats and baby floats for the little people for a summer group pic that’s very 2021.
1. High Maintenance Floats
Maybe it’s just us, but if a pool float lounger takes more than 5 minutes to inflate, we’re out. After a year inside we want to enjoy every minute of the pool party!
2. Icky Designs
Cockroach pool floats, giant turd pool floats, pool floats for adults shaped like toilets? We’re passing on these designs for pool rafts with more positive vibes, like heart shape pool floats and retro cassette tape loungers.
]]>
The very first step to store pool floats for winter is cleaning them one last time. Dead bugs, grass clippings, and little gifts from our bird friends can all make their way onto floats that have been left by the pool, which is why cleaning is so important.
While the floats are still inflated, spray off any debris with a hose. If there’s something that is really caked on, you can use a bit of dish detergent and a sponge to scrub it off. Make sure you rinse any soap well - you don’t want it sitting on your pool floats all winter!
The second step for how to store pool floats during winter is to make sure they’re bone-dry. Any moisture left on the floats could cause some nasty mold situations that you won’t want to deal with next spring.
Go over each float well with a beach towel, then allow to air dry for up to a day to really make sure there’s no remaining water droplets. Mold is not your friend, and it’s not your float’s friend either.
For this next step, we’ve created a handy tutorial on YouTube. Skip to the 0:40 timestamp for tips on how to correctly deflate your pool floats.
To recap the video: the method of deflating depends on which type of valve your float has. If it’s a single valve, simply unplug and let the air flow out. If it’s a leak-proof valve, you’ll need to hold and squeeze the valve to release the air. If you have a LOTELI float, we use a Double Boston Valve, which combines the two type. For a Double Boston Valve, you can simply unplug the single valve for easy deflating before you store your pool floats for winter.
When figuring out how to store pool floats for winter, folding is an important step. You want to fold your floats as flat as possible - both for easy storage, and to make sure no moisture or winter critters make their home in there.
The size and shape of your float will determine how to fold them, but generally, think of them like folding a set of sheets. Fold end to end, smoothing out wrinkles as much as you can, until the float is a manageable size.
The very last step for how to store pool floats for winer - storage! There are a variety of options for this. You could purchase a storage bin (flat underbed storage works well), or simply stack your floats somewhere where they won’t be in direct light and are sheltered from moisture. We like netted bags like this one - they allow air to pass through which keeps mold from growing, and you can use them again in the spring to store your inflated floats!
]]>Mascne is here, and it is real. Keep your face refreshed and blemish-free with this cute Nordstrom’s-exclusive Mario kit. It pops right into your backpack for easy throughout-the-day touchups!
Speaking of backpacks - you’re going to need something to carry your books (and Mario Badescu) in! Snag a Kanken pack; they come in a crazy-huge assortment of colors and last forever. You can buy them from Urban Outfitters, or directly from the brand here.
Make sure you stay hydrated, but for the love of all that is green, ditch the plastic bottles. This cute neon Hydroflaskcollection is exclusive to Urban Outfitters, and will keep you stylin’ and eco-friendly. Definitely a Fall semester 2020 essential.
Instagram is so 2018 - keep your photo memories near and dear with a Fujifilm that prints them right away. You can find them on Amazon here.
Whether you’re going to an in-person class, or just heading to your friend’s room for some social study hour, you want shoes that will hold up (and look cute doing it). These platform Vans have a great retro feel, and they’re clearly a classic for a reason! Snag this fall semester 2020 essential from their site here.
When it’s time to study, the hair goes up - and that means it’s scrunchie time. When you’re not wearing them in your hair, stack on your wrists for some 90’s nostalgia style (and so you don’t lose them). Check out this pack of 6 cute velvet scrunchies: there are color combinations for every style!
Speaking of 90’s nostalgia, nothing hits quite like the cassette. Whether you’re in Arizona and still swimming in pools after class, or up in the Northeast looking for some cool room decor that doubles as an air mattress - the LOTELI Cassette Float has you covered. Check them out on our site here.
Okay, while these aren’t technically a necessity… stickers are just fun! Whether they’re for your laptop, hydroflask, even your clear LOTELI float, stickers are a great way to personalize your stuff. Bring some whimsy into your life, and pick up a set here.
Part of the fun of a new school year is getting new supplies - and who doesn’t love to be color-coordinated? This Pastel Highlighter Set by Stabilo ensures your notes will be both organized and aesthetically pleasing. You can find them for purchase on Amazon, or probably any well-stocked school supply store.
]]>
Name: Karsen
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Dream Post-COVID Vacay: Santorini!
Favorite Food: Spaghetti
Best Part of 2020? “New Years trip to London!”
Karsen’s page is airy, So-Cal cool, and full of chic finds. Check her out on instagram here!
Name: Katerina
Hometown: Miami, FL
Favorite Food: Italian anything
Best Part of 2020? “Staying at Disney’s Polynesian Resort for our fourth wedding anniversary ☺️”
Katerina has a warm, summery feed that makes you feel like you’re actually in Miami with her. Check her out here!
Name: Carolena
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Dream Post-COVID Vacation: Anywhere in the Bahamas!
Best Part of 2020? “Laying on the beach in Cabo, Mexico.” Same, girl.
Carolena’s feed is sun-kissed and full of gorgeous ocean and bikini inspo - check out her insta here!
Name: Nikki
Hometown: Charlotte, NC - currently in Cleveland, OH!
First Place to Visit Post-COVID: Maldives
Best Part of 2020? “Traveling to Charlotte after not going anywhere since March. It was so great to see my family!”
Nikki keeps it bright, positive, and so real on her feed. Find out for yourself here!
Name: Taylor
Hometown: Savannah, GA
Favorite Food: Bring on the carbs!!!
First Place to Visit Post-COVID: one of those luxury huts in Bora Bora (where Kim Kardashian lost her diamond earring).
Best Part of 2020? “Stepping into the ocean for the first time after the beach lockdown was lifted. You never know how much you are going to miss something until it’s taken away from you!”
Taylor’s feed is a gorgeous mix of sunny beach inspo, gorgeous bikini finds, and adorable college content - find her on Insta here!
Name: Sam
Hometown: Happauge, NY
Fave Food: New York Pizza
Best Part of 2020? “Connecting with besties new and old, and supporting my blog community!”
Sam has a warm, summery vibe, sharing her fashion and beauty finds as she goes through life. Check her out on instagram here!
Name: Candace
Name: Ana
Hometown: West Palm Beach, FL
Favorite Food: Acai bowls
Best Part of 2020? “Going to a TON of sunrises with my friends!”
Ana is sweet as a button, and her gorgeous tropical feed is a welcome respite in our daily scroll. Check her out here!
Name: Letty
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Dream Post-COVID Destination: Fiji
Best Part of 2020? “Taking three road trips this summer.”
Letty’s feed is chic, stylish, and full of incredible fashion finds. Find her on Instagram here!
]]>That’s why for today’s post, we’re rounding up the tastiest, trendiest mocktail recipes of Summer 2020. You won’t feel left out of the fun in the slightest with these alcohol-free elixirs - break out the fancy glasses, and let’s get mixing!
Images © John Kernick and LÔTELI.
Adapted from this Food + Wine recipe. Serves 1. Pair with our Classic Cassette to stay chill as a cucumber.
Ingredients:
Directions: Add ice to a highball glass. In a cocktail shaker, combine syrup, lemon and lime juices, and 1 T water, stir until syrup is dissolved. Add ice and cucumber juice*, shake well, and strain into prepared glass. Top with club soda, then garnish with cucumber slices.
* If you can’t find cucumber juice, simply blend peeled chunks of cucumber in a blender and strain. One whole cucumber yields about ¾ c of juice.
Images © Ren Fuller and LÔTELI.
Adapted from one of our favorite Martha Stuart recipes - find the original here. Serves 6. Pair with a Set of Hearts for a party, or our single Red Heart for solo sipping.
Ingredients:
Directions: In a large, heatproof bowl, pour 24 oz. of not-quite-boiling water over the teabags. Steep for 5 minutes, then remove the teabags and allow to completely cool. Transfer to a pitcher and stir in the passion-fruit juice, then chill for about 2 hours. Serve over ice and garnish with currants or raspberries.
Images © Sivan Ayla and LÔTELI.
Adapted from this simple recipe from Sivan Ayla. Serves 2. Pair with your favorite blonde and our Blonde Float.
Ingredients:
Directions: Fill your favorite two glasses with ice. In a cocktail mixer, muddle 2 oz of grapefruit juice with 2 lavender sprigs. Add remaining juice, then fill with ice and shake well. Strain into glasses, then top with sparkling water and garnish each with a lavender sprig.
Images © Tina Rupp and LÔTELI.
Adapted from this Food + Wine recipe. Serves 1. Pair with our equally chic Clear Heart.
Ingredients:
Directions: Fill a rocks glass with ice. Then combine the peach nectar, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Add a rosemary sprig and muddle until the syrup is dissolved. Add ice, shake well, and strain into your glass, topping with a splash of club soda. Garnish with the remaining rosemary sprig.
Images © Maine and Vine and LÔTELI.
Adapted from this Main and Vine recipe. Serves 1. Pair with a Magenta Heart to match the blueberry muddle.
Ingredients:
This off-the-grid dream in Montana is right on the border of Yellowstone National Park, and your stay comes with two adventure tours by the guides at Erik’s Ranch. This secluded guest house offers 360-degree views of the breathtaking Yellowstone landscape, sunrise to sunset. Get all the perks of camping, without actually, you know, sleeping outside.
Relax in style with this gorgeous cottage on the Oregon coast, with a deck that’s nearly as big as the living room. There’s a wood-burning stove for chilly nights, and don’t forget your floats (shop them here) for daytime ocean adventures.
Located on a 20-acre farm in North Carolina, this treehouse is a glamper’s dream. With stone pillars and an airy, light-filled bedroom, the treehouse is a perfect forest escape.
In need of a tropical adventure, but not looking to travel internationally just yet? This floating tiki hut will make all your warm-weather dreams come true. Tether your pool floats to the side of the house for all-day lounging in the water, then dry off in the hammock as you watch the sun set.
History buffs, rejoice. This incredibly renovated space used to be a troop train’s kitchen car, and features an open-plan layout, plank wood flooring, and an outdoor BBQ. Bring your favorite historical fiction novel and cozy up by the fire pit.
This gorgeous retreat features several renovated airstreams in a remote corner of Joshua Tree - each one with outdoor decks and string lights to create your own little desert retreat. And we would be amiss if we didn’t mention the gorgeous solar plunge pool - bring your pool float and go for a nighttime swim while gazing at the stars.
For the price of a hotel room, you can rent this entire Victorian masterpiece that is almost certainly haunted. Set on a wooded hill, just down a ways from a covered bridge into town, this house is fully renovated and ready to scare the pants off you as soon as the sun sets. It also comes with a claw-foot tub, so don’t forget the bath bombs.
]]>Images © Peony 2020 and Loteli 2020
Peony is an Australian luxury swim brand that focuses on sustainability. Their pieces are feminine, sweet, and made from eco-friendly materials (so you can feel totally good about that fourth add-to-cart). We’d love to pair the sweet floral set above with our white heart float, and maybe a glass of rose.
Images © Summersalt 2020 and LÔTELI 2020
Their current tagline is “summer is still on”, and you know what? We couldn’t agree more. That’s exactly one of the many reasons Summersalt is one of our top swimsuit brands for Summer 2020. Their claim to fame is stylish but comfortable swimsuits, and they tested measurements from over 10,000 women to find the perfect one-piece fit. We love their Marina suit in Leopard (pictured above), and couldn’t help but notice it pairs glamorously with our Metallic Pink Heart.
Images © Montce Swim 2020 and LÔTELI 2020
Started in 2009 from founder Alexandra Grief’s Ft. Lauderdale apartment, Montce Swim has since grown into a celebrity-loved boutique swim brand. With on-trend fabrics and flattering fits, Montce is one of our faves on this list. We’d love to float away in our Clear Ring sporting Montce’s blush velvet ‘kini pictured above.
Images © Dippin’ Daisy’s 2020 and LÔTELI 2020
Dippin’ Daisy’s was founded in 2015, and releases gorgeous swim collections from sunny Los Angeles all season long. Their bright colors and fun pops of detail exude everything that is the SoCal swim scene, and earn them an easy spot in our top swimsuit brands for Summer 2020. The Plush Burn set, pictured above, gives a distinct festival vibe and makes us want to pair with a Classic Cassette and some speakers. Couchella here we come!
Images © Andie Swim 2020 and LÔTELI 2020
Andie swimsuits are a cult favorite among the minimalist chic crowd - their fit is second to none, guaranteeing you’ll be a repeat customer for years to come. And after a quarantine that consisted mostly of consuming banana bread, we’re feeling especially kindly towards their incredibly flattering signature suits. We suggest their classic Amalfi one-piece with our Blonde Float and a watermelon juice, ASAP.
Images © Vincija 2020 and LÔTELI 2020
Aussie swim label Vincija is exactly where sustainable meets sexy. If you’ve been taking advantage of all the free at-home workouts (and even if you haven’t), why not show off that quarantine bod in one of their mega-cute teeny bikinis? We’d happily pair this hot pink number with our gold heart float, even with our banana-bread-only diet. Flaunt what you’ve got, ladies.
]]>This year, it’s probably a good idea to ask guests to bring their own masks as well as a six-pack. But for an especially on-theme touch, order a few sets of red, white, and blue bandannas that guests can don upon arrival. Just think of the color-coordinated pictures!
Okay, this isn’t exactly the easiest task on our list. But if you want to get serious about your social-distancing while celebrating with friends and family, you can create a social-distancing grid in the backyard with mini American flags (order a pack of 50 or 100 here). Enlist a few friends and a tape measure, and stick mini flags in the ground every six feet, working your way across a reasonable amount of yard. It looks super festive, while providing your guests with a nice visual guideline for physical distancing.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock the past couple years, you’ve heard of the massive Broadway hit Hamilton. Disney just announced that they’ll be streaming a recorded version of the play starting July 3rd - what better way to celebrate our country than learning about our founding fathers? Hang a sheet, borrow your bestie’s projector, and have everyone bring a blanket to sit on (6 ft. apart!). Get ready for one giant sing-along.
Is it too hot where you are to party on dry land? Here’s another fun way to keep everyone socially-distanced. Order a bunch of LÔTELI pool floats (think red, white and the deep blue sea/pool). Day of the party, inflate and toss them in the pool, then make sure everyone knows the newest pool rule: you must be at least one float apart from everyone else in the water.
Take care, be safe and enjoy your July 4th!
]]>
We’re starting with the most important feature of any party: the snack table. Don’t fool yourself into thinking this isn’t important - a few easy recipes will take your chic pool party from meh to wow.
Since we’re going for a chic vibe, save the burgers for another time and try these fancy (but easy!) ideas:
While BYOB is a common sentiment for pool parties (we’re hanging around all day, after all) one or two signature beverages make a delightful surprise at any chic pool party. Let these inspire:
And finally, we get to those party-making final touches. The chef’s kiss, if you will, of any party - little gadgets, gizmos, and accessories that make your guests wonder how long you spent planning.
There you have it - a few tips and tricks for throwing a pool party that is just a little bit fancy. If you have any other tips we'd love to hear them!
]]>
Enough is enough - we’re officially sick of the inside of our apartment. Why not check out some local camping spots (the National Park Service recommends we stay closer to home), book a site, and spend your weekend soaking in nature? Many campsites have hiking, swimming, and even grilling readily available - just make sure you have a tent and bug spray handy. And if you secure a coveted lakeside campsite, don’t forget to bring your pool floats! Camping is definitely one of our top summer social distancing activities.
Honestly, there’s nothing better than curling up with a good book and a cocktail. But why not make an activity of it? Research trilogies, and topics you’ve always wanted to learn about - then look for the best books that cover it. You could even start a book club, complete with socially-distanced seating, snacks and wine.
We know half of you just clicked the back button frantically (if this is not for you, skip to number 4). But for our readers missing their pickup basketball games, gym time and summer volleyball leagues, this might be up your alley. There’s so much that goes into marathon training and it ends up being a pretty full-time activity. From stretching, to strength training (body weight works fine for runners, don’t stress about the gym) to upping mileage, there are so many aspects to detailing and executing your social distancing training plan. Sock tans, here we come!
It’s time to go old-school… art school, that is. If there’s anything social-distancing has taught us the past few months, it’s how to get creative - and now’s the time to bring that creativity back to its roots! Whether it’s coloring books or setting up an easel on the fire escape, making art is an extremely therapeutic and rewarding use of time.
One trend we're seeing a lot of is people drawing on their pool floats! A LÔTELI pool float in white or our clear ring creates the perfect canvas! Don’t forget to tag us at @shoploteli so we can share your masterpiece.
]]>LÔTELI put together 5 Socially Distanced Memorial Day Plans that are just as fun as a group BBQ.
]]>
No pool? No problem! Grab your plushest beach blankets, a tray of snacks, some pool floats (check out this set if you want to SuperHost and gift everyone their own), and spread out in the backyard. Place snacks and drinks in the center, and have everyone set up around it in a circle 6ft. apart. The perfect Memorial Day plan for social distancing.
Depending on your area, some states and counties have begun opening up parks for summer recreational activities. After being cooped up indoors for the past few months, what better way to spend Memorial Day than a little overnight trip in nature? Just be sure to call the ranger station in advance to make sure you comply with any new rules related to the pandemic.
And for those of you who want to enjoy nature without 'roughing it', there’s glamping. One of our favorite ways to camp in style is to use Hipcamp - it’s like AirBnB for private campgrounds. Like we mentioned above for public camping, just be sure to call ahead and get any social distancing rules squared away.
For those of you missing more rambunctious weekend festivities, we’ve got just the thing. Map out your favorite bars in the neighborhood that are offering drinks to-go. Each member of your quarantine crew goes to a different spot, picking up drinks for the group and perhaps a favorite appetizer from the restaurant (don’t forget to tip!).
Stock your fridge with the goods, blow up a few pool floats for socially-distanced seating (our Cassette Floats work well for this) and enjoy responsibly! If you’re lucky enough to have outdoor space, even better.
The global pandemic has caused a lot of travel stress and confusion. Whether you’ve cancelled plans or avoided making them altogether, let’s try to put a positive spin on it, shall we?
Take advantage of your three-day weekend to plan a little at-home adventure. Trip to Italy cancelled? Break out that limoncello and try your hand at homemade pasta (or order takeout from your fave spot in Little Italy). Rethinking your weekend at the Jersey Shore? Blow up a couple pool floats (try these), put on some party music, and mix up a pitcher of Long Island Iced Teas… Just don’t hold us responsible for any fist-pumping.
And if you’re just looking to relax and enjoy the long weekend, take a peek at this blog post for tips on how to make the most of it.
]]>
While it may be tempting to slam your laptop shut as soon as the clock strikes two (or five, if your company isn’t into Summer Fridays), try to focus Friday morning to make sure you wrap up anything mission-critical. You don’t want that work presentation to float across your mind while you’re floating across the pool. (need help with the floating part? These pool floats can assist).
Ever laid in bed Sunday night wondering where your weekend went? Yeah, us too. That’s why a little bit of planning is key to maximizing your long weekend. No one wants to think about chores, but if you have some things to take care of: plan to wake up and get them out of the way pronto. That way, the rest of your day is open for our next tip...
This is the best part of a long weekend! There’s an entire extra day to do whatever you want, whenever you want. Spontaneous cocktails-to-go tour of the restaurants opening back up? Sure! Brunch (ordered for takeout and brought to the rooftop) at 3pm? Why not? Friend opening up their pool for the season? Yes please, we’ll supply the pool floats!
Another tip to maximize your long weekend: change up that scenery! A three-day weekend expands your travel radius considerably (although with COVID restrictions, make sure you’re being responsible and safe). With that extra day, you now have all of Sunday (and Saturday, if you leave right after work) as full, no-travel relaxation days somewhere new and exciting. Maybe now’s the time to get a hammock from REI and try your hand at glamping?
And finally, our last tip to maximize your long weekend: RELAX. Seriously. While it may be tempting to have the mostfun, drink the most mimosas, go to the most pool parties, don’t stress over it! Make sure you take time to consciously relax. Let go of anything that’s stressing you out, lay back in a pool float (TBH, we do this in our living room sans pool), and close your eyes for a minute or two. Just un-tensing your shoulders and taking a few deep breaths slows down the weekend and brings you into the moment. Do this a few times a day, and you won’t be laying in bed Monday night thinking, where did my weekend go?
Consider your long weekend maximized!
]]>If personal time for mamas was precious before, under quarantine it’s become almost nonexistent - and that’s why especially thoughtful Mother’s Day Gifts for 2020 are extra-important. Show the mamas in your life some love, and gift them something from our Top 10 Best Mother’s Day Gifts below.
Image © Winc 2020
I mean… You can’t go wrong with a box (or six) of wine. We like Winc for their fun tasting quiz, and for their easy “Gifting” option at checkout.
Image © Drunk Elephant 2020
Who doesn’t need a new serum? We’re pretty obsessed with Drunk Elephant (for both their formulas, and for their product names).
Image © Loteli 2020
Nothing’s better than a long float in the pool, tropical drink in hand. So naturally, our newest pool floats make the Top 10 best Mother’s Day Gifts list! Get mom a set of five so she doesn’t have to deal with the kiddos fighting over them later this summer.
Yes, we know they’re not open right now. But if you have a mom who likes to pamper herself, do her (and your local spa) a favor and book that next appointment for her. We love Heyday for their pop-in-on-your-lunch-break un-stuffiness, but you can also call around your local day spas - many are offering deals for advanced bookings. Bonus if she can bring her own pool float.
Many local restaurants are offering to-go meal kits as a way to stay in business. Check to see if any of her favorite spots are doing this (we recommend calling restaurants directly, as many are doing Mother’s Day specials or would be happy to put something together for you regardless). For our NYC readers, check out Blue Hill (fancy!), Doughnuttery (fun!), or Katz’s Deli (meat sweats!).
Image © Bliss World Inc. 2020
No, the other kind. COVID19 have you on a budget? While we can guarantee that with mom, it’s definitely the thought that counts, we also know she’ll appreciate a basket full of skin-soothing sheet masks. We love Bliss’s collection of fun textures and scents - definitely a must-have on our Top 10 Best Mother’s Day Gifts list.
Image © Parachute Home 2020
We may be stuck at home, but that doesn’t mean we can’t bring the spa to mom! Gift her a big fluffy robe, then start pouring mimosas. Both the classic and waffle robes from Parachute are to-die-for.
Stuck quarantining across the country from your mom? Flowers are a classic for a reason. We love Farmgirl Flowersfor their organic practices and absolutely gorgeous arrangements. Their customer service is also second-to-none.
Image © Parachute Home 2020
Maybe what mom wants, more than anything, is a full night of sleep (shoutout to the newborn moms). Get her a set of Slip silk pillowcases to keep her day-four quarantine hair looking fresh as a daisy.
Image © 2020 Vrai
Feeling extra-splurgy? The diamonds over at Vrai are classic, clean, and 100% ethical and sustainable.
]]>