The Dog Days of Summer are thought to be the period when we have the most torrid, unbearable, scorching weather. The star Sirius is referred to as the “Dog Star,” like Keanu Reeves’ former band, and it was also believed to be responsible for the aforementioned hot weather. (The star, not the band, sorry.) So I would venture to say that according to the stars, we are now experiencing the most horrific examples of perfectly rational people abandoning not only the rules of style but also good taste, when it comes to beating the fashion heat. I mean seriously, aren’t you appalled by the clothing, or lack of, that some people gravitate toward when the temperature and humidity rise? I wanted to share my personal dos and don’ts for “doggone” summer attire.
–Do layer sheer clothing over camisoles, tank tops, slips and other garments.
–Don’t wear sheer clothing without anything under it. This is never a good look, and people might mistake you for a stripper or a lady of the evening.
–Do get a pedicure and keep it up if you are going to be wearing sandals a lot. Do it yourself or go to a local salon or spa. This is equally, if not more, important for the men out there because gnarly nails are always out of style, I even found this picture on a fan site of Milwaukee’s own Idol Danny 
Gokey getting his toes done.
–Do make sure your halter-top actually halts you in all the right places.
–Don’t wear flip-flops with everything. Although they are comfortable and fashionable, too, given the many styles available, I still believe that variety is the spice of life. So change up your casual footwear with espadrilles, cork-soled wedges and pf flyers.
–Do wear hats to provide protection from the sun as well as create a fashion statement. Choose wisely though or you may look like one of
the “Golden Girls.” Although Betty White’s not doing so bad.
–Don’t wear baseball hats with everything. They are strictly the realm of beach volleyball and other summer sports. Unless they’re woven or some type of other unique fabric, keep them on the playing field where they belong.
–Do wear short shorts if you have the legs for it.
–Don’t wear short shorts if you hang over, under or all of the above. No one wants an inadvertent peep show. Well maybe some people do, but you don’t want to know them.
–Do recycle some of your favorite T-shirts by making them into sleeveless tops that always look great with jeans, shorts or almost anything you might wear this summer.
–Do find some good-looking sunglasses for protection and fashion, too. They don’t have to be expensive. I have around six or seven pairs and like to switch it up depending on what I’m wearing or my mood.
–Don’t wear your sunglasses while indoors unless they’re on top of your head or you’re a celebrity. Remember that just because stars do it, doesn’t make it right.
–Do recycle some favorite jeans that are past their prime by rolling them into a wide cuff just at the
knee or below. The “boyfriend” look is everywhere this summer.
–Don’t wear totally shredded T-shirts with jeans; it’s a look that is better left to the attention seekers who forgot the ’80s are over. One or the other can be OK, but a little distressing goes a long way.
–Do find a crisp white button-down shirt in cotton to layer over everything from swimsuits to tank tops and jeans. You might try tying it at the waist over a breezy skirt for a fresh take on an old favorite.
–Don’t wear black heels with black dresses, try a pair of nude heels like Angelina Jolie rocked at the “Salt” premiere in NYC. It looks infinitely cooler in so many ways.
–Do wear foundation garments with tube tops or anything else that may not have enough support for the fuller figured gal. Flopping around is for flounders not educated intelligent women.
–Do wear accessories that reflect the season. Chunky wood, shells and floral motifs work great in the summer with simple tops and dresses. You can get away with bracelets, necklaces or earrings, piled on this summer. In winter and fall, it might just be too much.
–Don’t wear items that are too tight, too short or too skimpy. Hot temperatures do not mean you should wear anything that you wouldn’t want your grandma or any other sighted person to see you in. That means, don’t wear your string bikini top at the grocery store ladies, or to the shirtless guy who needs a bra hanging out on the street, please cover yourself. “It’s hot” just doesn’t cut it. These situations are why T-shirts were invented.
–Do find yourself some white linen slacks, jeans or capris and wear them with absolutely everything from T- shirts to fancy blouses.
–Don’t forget to shop at local Milwaukee retailers for some of the items I’ve mentioned on my DO list, so you DON’T end up in the dog house!
