Our experts weigh in.

by Joanne O’Sullivan . photos by Jameykay Young

Festival season is upon us. Bele Chere’s gone, but Brewgrass, LAAFF (Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun Festival) and LEAF (Lake Eden Arts Festival) are coming up, which means many more opportunities to see and be seen. And, alas, many opportunities for fashion faux pas. We’ve all seen the Daisy Dukes paired with the confederate flag bikini tops, the full-on goth ensemble with the oh-so-unseasonable combat boots. We asked a few local fashion experts to weigh in on what NOT to wear to this summer’s festivals, and a few tips on how to look fantastic instead.

Tammy Goni, Custom Hers and Home Boutique, Asheville
Don’t Wear: Black. It’s hot out, and black absorbs heat. And don’t wear anything sheer. We don’t need to see your bra, and if it rains, it suddenly turns into a wet T-shirt contest. Also, no big purses downtown.

Rebeccah Barrett, Minx, Asheville
Don’t Wear: One-pieces. There are port-a-potties at festivals, and you don’t want to have to get naked. No white either. It’s not a good choice when you’ll be eating hot dogs and funnel cakes. No silk tops: it’s hot—think of the underarm stains!

Betsy Bradfield, Frock, Asheville
Don’t Wear: High heels, teased hair or midriff-bearing tops. Gentlemen, please no mesh shirts!

So what should you wear?
• Bright, vibrant colors. Coral and yellow are big for 2010.
• Pretty prints.
• A basic sundress with fun sandals.
• A small purse, worn across the body.