Now that summer is FINALLY upon us, there are some simple reminders on how to not end up on Glamour Magazine’s ‘Fashion Don’t” page.

Summer Fashion Mistakes

• Belly just a little too noticeable. Avoid belly shirts if this is a problem area for you, or if you are mature (i.e. had a few birthdays in the 40′s or beyond). Even if you have a rockin’ bod, once you hit 40 there are certain looks that might not be age-appropriate.
• Too much cleavage…maybe “back in the day” this was your best attribute, but today no one wants to see it all hanging out…not even men. Even if you are young and sassy – modesty is the most attractive feature you can have “hangin’ out”.
• Stretch pants. If they are personal favorites, wear them at home, not to the mall. The figure hugging nature of the stretch pant can only be done if the stretch pant is worn as a legging…not a pant.
• Self tanner applied incorrectly. If you find yourself with a smear of color that you hadn’t intended on, a wedge of lemon will dissolve the mistake in seconds. Be sure to look in places you might not notice like your feet (between toes, ankles), neck, elbows.  Tip – mix your self tanner with regular body lotion.  This helps it go on more evenly.
• Patterned panties under white pants, overly obvious panty lines are bad enough… I certainly don’t want to see the color or the pattern of your skivvies. Get Spanx – try the Hide & Sleek Capri Smoother
• Uncared for feet in pretty sandals. If your heels are white from calluses, and your toenails are yellow – DO NOT wear open toed sandals. Before you slip on your favorite flip-flops, splurge on a professional manicure.  If you get this done at the beginning of the season, you can easily keep-it up through the end of the summer. Or, if you want to take some time and indulge in a home pedi, try some of the press-on toenails.  For under $10, you can have a fast professional looking pedicure.
• Sandals that have seen better days.  You might be able to get away with the good ‘ol standby boots with jeans in the winter, but in the summer with Capri pants and shorts – everyone will see your shoes.  Make sure they are presentable.
• Socks with sandals.  Just because a few years ago, the kids were wearing socks with their Doc Marten’s, it doesn’t give you permission to jump on this fashion bandwagon.  If you have to wear socks…wear a closed toe and heeled shoe…like a non athletic tennis shoe.
• Speaking of socks…socks with mules – please don’t when you are wearing capris or shorts.  Along this same line, no multi colored socks with mules – this means none of those cutesy socks with animal motifs on them.  If something looks like a 5 year old would wear it – let her!
• Bathing suits are not clothing. Your really cute bikini top shouldn’t we worn as a layering piece with your favorite jacket.
• If you question the style, trend or the look…don’t.  This is the best piece of advice I can give you!

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Photo by Joseph Robertson on Flickr