Red, White and Blue Basics

Apple pie, baseball, hot dogs, fireworks.  All American staples that serve as ingredients for a fabulous celebration of our country's independence.  Fourth of July weekend is a summer highlight that extends to lake houses, boat rides, beach bonfires, and fun with friends and family.  My personal favorite holiday, I look forward to this weekend every year, and with that anticipation comes contemplation of holiday appropriate outfits.  Check out my patriotic picks for our country's birthday!

1.  Rory Beca La Boca Wrap Romper:  Rompers are the perfect option for a casual outing while still wanting to remain fabulously chic.  The fit is comfortable and the color is appropriate for the weekend's celebrations.  Dressed down with either simple flip flops for a boat cruise, or spruced up with nude platform pumps and a coral necklace for the country club fireworks, this Rory Beca romper will carry you stylishly through the holiday.  

2. Splendid 'Venice' Slubbed Stripe Tank:  This Splendid Nordstrom Exclusive is the prime tank to carry with you on your weekend trip to the lake or beach.  Cotton soft, easily packed, nautical in stripes, perfect for layering, this tank can even double as a swim suit cover up!  Tucked into a color blocked high waisted skirt for a dinner out, or tossed on over jean shorts for a bar-b-que, this tank is a Fourth of July must-have.  

3. Genetic Denim: The Turner Denim Shorts:  If any fabric defines American culture, it would definitely be denim.  These Genetic Denim hot pants are a classic staple for summer, and even more so for Fourth of July.  The wash is versatile and the cuffed bottoms are reminiscent of Daisy Dukes.  With either a printed cropped tank for the day or an oversized oatmeal colored sweater for when the night gets chilly, you'll be happy to have these blue jean babies.

4.  byCORPUS Cutout Tulip-Back Dress: It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on this dress.  The style of the dress is simple and unassuming, but the peak-a-boo cut out in the back of the dress instantly packs sex appeal.  The cinched waist allows for a feminine silhouette and the subtle draping on the back of the dress makes it fashion forward.  Worn with a statement collar necklace and strappy high heeled sandals, you will be sure to make an impression.  

5. Jeffrey Campbell Quarterstrap Platform:  Jeffrey Campbell's shoes put plainly:  to-die-for.  His shoes are unexpected and incredibly trend conscious, but also have an impeccable quality about them.  These flatforms of his jumped off the page at me for two reasons:  their neutral tone allows them to be paired with any color combination, and their versatile style leaves opportunity for all kinds of occasion.  Some may approach the flatform with sartorial caution, but don't hesitate, these JC's will punch up an outfit of any sort.  

6.  Victoria Secret Triangle Bikini Set:  When it comes to swim suits, nothing can beat a white hot string bikini.  With a white bikini comes the easy opportunity to accessorize:  a tribal printed Tory Burch tunic cover up, colored sunglasses, or chunky turquoise.  Not only does this white suit provide a blank canvas for summer styling, but it also happens to look FANTASTIC with a tan!

7.  Ray-Ban RB3025 Large Aviators:  Like denim, Ray Bans are an American classic.  Their Aviators have the ability to look great on any face shape.  Their good looks are balanced by their quality and function.  You won't want to be caught without a pair of these for the sunny days ahead.  

8. Vans American Era Sneakers:  Although these are men's shoes, I couldn't help myself---plus who doesn't indulge in some menswear here and there anyway!  To call these shoes patriotic is an understatement.  I love their flag pattern, and they would make an amazing conversation piece. With either jean shorts, or a simple white dress, you will without a doubt be making a statement! *

*Prerequisite to wearing this shoe:  Must be playing "Proud to Be an American" as background music at all times.