As an image consultant and personal stylist, I have always found that there is something about red, white, and blue wardrobe colors that so perfectly say “summer.” With both Memorial Day and the Fourth of July taking place during this season, investing in a couple of patriotic pieces is a great way to showcase your celebratory style and update your summer staples. It is great to see many Indiana and locally, Indianapolis, residents making the effort to dress up for this patriotic holiday!
You probably never thought about it, but July 4th, Independence Day, is a holiday unique to America. I am on an international committee of my Association of Image Consultants International and was sent a meeting announcement for Friday night on the July 4th weekend. I wrote back the organizer from Brazil and said — this is one of the biggest summer holidays in the U.S. Please record the meeting!
Image Consultant’s 4th of July Fashion Choices
Many summer fabrics are ideal for patriotic attire. Think gingham, seersucker, and chambray. Gingham is especially popular this year, making it a piece to style all summer long. Plus, these fabrics are lightweight and cool, which is why they have withstood the test of time in terms of warm weather wear. To help you to begin thinking about how you can incorporate patriotic style into your closet, here are a few ideas. This includes styles for different age groups and genders because the fourth is a great opportunity for you and your family to coordinate at upcoming barbecues and firework shows!
Women’s Wear
Red Gingham Swing Dress from Old Navy. Dress it up with a jacket or dress it down with flat sandals. Either way, this classic fits nicely on a variety of body types. Plus, it’s currently 20% off!
Sleeveless Chambray Top from J. Crew. The ruffle collar gives this a nice feminine touch. Pair with white bottoms and red statement earrings to tie it back to the patriotic theme. Being seasonal doesn’t have to mean flag t-shirts. You can simplify and incorporate colors that give a nod to the holiday.
Men’s Wear
Red Seersucker Shorts from J. Crew. These earned great reviews and can also be dressed up or down. Pair with a simple t-shirt or polo with loafers.
Polo Ralph Lauren Tee from Nordstrom. This designer is iconic Americana style so it seems like a disservice not to include at least one piece from Ralph Lauren. This casual t-shirt in blue with a red logo is an easy way to wear your patriotic spirit. It styles great with khakis or jeans and is the epitome of comfort.
Children’s Wear
A plethora of children’s options are available for celebrating the red, white, and blue this summer. Many choices are available in coordinating sibling sets or family ensembles. Here are a few favorites.
Hanna Anderson’s patriotic collection includes swimwear, pajamas and t-shirts that are perfect for all your little ones.
Gymboree’s American Cutie at the Children’s Place is a collection that includes options for boys and girls. Top picks include the madras shorts and dress and the accessory choices like hats, shoes, and sunglasses.
Old Navy built its brand on Americana clothing, making them a one-stop-shop for the Fourth for the whole family. Great options include red and blue tie-dye in a variety of pieces, such as tees, dresses, and bottoms.
The great part about rockin’ the patriotic attire is that it’s versatile for the whole summer and you can wear it subtly or overtly depending on the occasion or your preference. These pieces for the most part tend to be timeless, making them great investments for your wardrobe.
Keep it sassy, Indy.
Darlene, for image consultant Beth Divine Style
