Dear Readers: Ladies, the heat is on. How should you DRESS FOR THE OFFICE IN THE SUMMER? Most offices adopt a more relaxed dress code for summertime. Let’s take a look:

* A pressed khaki pants, skirt or capri pants is a “go”; most companies allow bare legs now. Dressy sandals are OK, but not flip-flops.

* Leave leggings, exercise wear (“athleisure”) and crop tops at home.

* Collared knit shirts with the company logo are OK.

* Sleeveless dresses and tops are tricky; have a jacket on standby.

* Loud florals are discouraged, but bold solid colors can be fine.

Conforming to the company dress code is necessary, but you can relax your dress and brighten things up a bit in the summertime. If you have questions, ask your human resources department for more information. Pattern your summer dress style after your supervisors’ wardrobe. — Heloise

HOME PROTECTION

Dear Heloise: I NEVER mention to the cabdriver or ride-share driver who picks me up at home that I’m going away for a long period. He could come back to my property and burgle it. If he’s taking me to the airport, I mention that my husband (whether I have one or not) is staying home.

I’m sure the majority of these ride-share drivers are upstanding and trustworthy, but you never know. — Barbara F. in California

WHIZ WITH CHEESE

Dear Readers: Cheese should always be served at room temperature. This brings out the flavor of the cheese, and you can enjoy it more.

If you’re serving different kinds of cheeses, present each on its own wooden board, with its own sharp and good-quality knife. — Heloise

OFFICE/KITCHEN COMBO

Dear Heloise: I have a desk in my kitchen. This makes it easier to answer email or write letters while preparing a meal. Also, the kids can sit at the desk and work on their projects or summer school homework while I cook, and we can have a nice chat. — Deborah T. in Texas

CURSIVE PRACTICE

Dear Heloise: I sit with my kids (ages 9 and 12) and we handwrite letters to Grandma and Grandpa in cursive! The grandparents love getting the letters, and we get to practice our cursive. I’m even a little rusty due to typing and texting everything! — Carol B. in Nevada

A lost art! — Heloise

DRINK COVER

Dear Heloise: I cover my drinks when I’m outside with an upside-down cupcake liner to keep bugs out. A straw can poke through the paper easily. — Danielle S. in Mississippi

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Hints from Heloise run occasionally in Lifestyles. Readers may send a hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE, or email: Heloise@Heloise.com. Letters won’t be answered personally.