It’s finally here ~ summer. It’s the season full of outdoor adventures, vacations and sun even after the workday is done. With so many things to do in just three short months, along with rising temperatures and sky-high humidity, it is easy to see how the summer months are packed with the most uncomfortable and cringe-worthy style mishaps. So do yourself a favor and do not get caught sporting one of these summer fashion faux pas over the next few months.

The most common summer fashion faux pas we see as summer is just beginning is the oh-so-awkward mixing of seasons, i.e. the dreaded Uggs and sundress pairing. Cable-knit sweaters, oversized cardigans and most boots should not ~ under any circumstances ~ be worn after May.

Summer is just about the only season in New England where you show off your feet, showing how absolutely clueless people are as to what theirs actually look like after being trapped inside socks and shoes for the past eight months. So do your homework and treat yourself to a pedicure. Don’t get caught having the feet that make everyone else run in terror to the nail salon.

Arguably, the best part of the summer is taking off a weekend to soak up the sun, break out that new bikini and be the ultimate beach bum. Sunglasses on, drink in hand. … The one thing that is just not cute is wearing excessive makeup on the beach. It’s almost as bad as wearing heels on the beach ~ you just shouldn’t do it. After all, you’re there to swim in salty water and sweat out yesterday’s stress, not shoot a music video.

Didn’t have time to hit the beach this weekend? There’s nothing worse than making up for it with too much fake tanner and the accompanying orange, streaky skin.  Gradual tanning lotion works for a lot of people and is virtually foolproof, or, if you need a quicker fix, try applying fake tan mixed with regular lotion for a more even application.

Once you figure out all of these details, the last thing you want to be is the girl showing too much skin. It’s a difficult happy medium to find as the summer temperatures climb, along with hems. As long as an honest effort is made to not be “that girl” walking around the mall in a bikini top, you should be fine.

At the end of the day, the summer season is first and foremost about having fun and letting loose, but that doesn’t mean that absolutely all sartorial rules should be cast away until further notice. So take a second to re-think the most tempting style crimes this summer ~ flip flops (probably not cute) or a bra sticking out of a strappy backless top (try again). You can do it!

By Stacia Kindler