Manners Matter: Cover Up Swimsuits in Restaurants, Stores

Dear Mary Pat,

I know we live in a resort area where swimsuits are common attire, but why do adults think it’s appropriate to go into a restaurant or store without a cover-up? If you’ve been at the beach all day and are going to pick up your dinner or pop into a store, layer up. Whether you’re 25 or 65, super fit or not fit at all, it takes no effort to put on a shirt or cover-up.

Signed,

Cover Up, Please

Dear Cover Up, Please,

Although it’s up to individual business owners to come up with specific dress codes, most in Door County don’t have any special requirements for how their patrons should dress, apart from maybe golf clubs. Despite the lack of official dress codes, however, it’s generally not appropriate to wear just a swimsuit into a restaurant or store. It’s a little too casual, a little tacky, and just as out of place as a fish out of water.

Good luck,

Mary Pat

Miss Pat was educated at the Finnish Finishing School for Fine Ladies. Eloquent in edifying etiquette, she is fluent in seven languages, including the language of love. Mary Pat has generously extended her counsel to you and will answer any and all inquiries. Email Mary Pat at [email protected].