Although I agree with Milo, I also have to agree with Gemp...
With Maddie, you'd be surprised where she was allowed to go. She's not a toy dog, and I never carry her. I was visiting family one time around Mansfield, and we needed to pick up some horse shampoo at the TSC in the area. It was terribly hot outside, so I was going to wait in the car with Maddie (and the AC lol) while she ran in to get some. She went in and asked if the dog could come it. They asked her what kind, she said cocker, they said Sure, Come on in!!
She walked on a leash the whole time, and was very quiet. Only one person asked to pet her... it was a great experience.
Later, when reflecting on it, I figured that if I'd had Missy instead of Maddie, we would've had to wait in the car... Which I was planning on doing in the first place.
There wasn't a sign that said "No Dogs", and I didn't have a carrier...
Back to the OT - 'to each their own'. As long as a dog knows how to walk, and gets opportunity to do so, carriers don't really bother me. I do think its annoying that they don't walk, but its not my dog and not my business. I've yet to meet a toy without plenty of energy to 'keep up' on walks, and Yes even Hikes
With clothes, Maddie has a couple hoodies. I think shirts with writing are occasionally amusing, and the hoodies keep Maddie's nekkid back warm in winter, but that's only occasionally. As with anything, I don't mind clothes
in moderation. I really don't like the multi-piece elaborate outfits (pants, tank top, bandana, hat puh-lease), but as I said before, to each their own. I don't know them, or their dogs, so can't judge on that initial experience.
I'm sure people may know what first impression it has on others - but that's there business