To show the knee or not to show the knee? Essential fashion questions answered

To show knee or not to show knee?

With this crazy weather, every morning is a battle between your head and your body. It's sunny out, and you want to wear shorts but the unwritten rules of fashion don't allow for bare thighs before April.

If you find yourself stuck in a battle of senses with yourself, it's time to set some guidelines. Some of these rules are bendable, but some are not meant to be broken.

White before Memorial Day? Shirts, sweaters and scarves – OK. Pants, dresses and sandals – no.

Many fashion rules are meant to be broken but when you have to consider whether or not you look foolish in that outfit, reconsider.

It's true – the weather has been all over the place lately. But just because you can go outside without getting windburn on you bare legs, doesn't mean that you should prove it.

Unless you're in the south or near the equator, bare legs are never appropriate in the middle of January.

This does not, however, mean that you have to be sweating in heavy winter coats and goulashes to avoid judgmental stares.

Instead of a winter coat, opt for something lighter that can still provide warmth in those cooler, shaded areas.

Denim and light leather jackets are great options. Paired with a fashionable scarf and skinny pants and boots, the look is both functional and fashionable.

Think about the entirety of your day. You want to keep in mind not to overdress in the morning when it's significantly colder, but also not get carried away around midday thinking the sun will still be keeping you warm when you get out of class or work after dusk.

Though the sun is warming, the wind is equally chilling. For this reason, the key to being prepared for this crazy weather is to dress lightly without any bare skin showing.

Wearing lots of layers can help achieve the perfect balance for appropriate clothing, as well.

Not wearing some kind of long-sleeve covering is up there with wearing shorts. Just because you can, does not mean you should.

A dress with tights and a cardigan and boots is a prime example of how to get the warm-weather look while still maintaining practicality.

On even the warmest of winter days, remember that it is still only a warmer day in the coldest season.

You should absolutely take advantage of these nice days by showing off great assets like legs and collar bones, but abide by the rule that every inch of skin should be covered, if even just lightly.

In a just a few weeks Punxsutawney Phil should see his shadow, and all of the fashion dreams you've been having will come true.