What to Wear: Fourth of July

Chances are you've just realized the Fourth is this upcoming weekend, and oh my gosh, what am I going to wear to the rockin' lake party or the family barbecue? Well, at least I have. I find dressing for holidays to be almost as challenging as trying to determine what to wear to a sporting event. I always want to be in the "color scheme" of things, but you know, not too overboard. In other words, I don't want to wear exploding fireworks bedazzled on a knit shirt.

It seems the Fourth presents the biggest challenge because any time you think of red, white and blue, you automatically envision that guy singing Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA" at Saturday night karaoke. (and by "that guy" I'm referring to my friend Torry - yep, called out!)

Anyhow, fear not dear readers. I have pulled together a few different ensembles to give you some last minute inspiration as you enter the weekend. I hope you find the idea boards below helpful. Overall, I say if let your main color focus be white, use a few red accents and substitute a navy blue with a turquoise blue, you should be stylish and patriotic at the same time.

Perfect for: A super casual lake cookout. If water activities are involved, just throw on a swimsuit under this chic outfit and you are ready to go. (and yes, I totally swiped this from my previous WTW post, but it works for this occasion too!)

Styles for Less Oversized Crop Striped Tank in red/white, $16.99

Forever21 Destroyed Denim Cutoffs in light denim, $17.80

Payless Rockwell Woven Low Wedge, $12.99 (I can vouch for how amazingly comfy these are!)

Styles for Less Open Weave Straw Fedora, $10.99

White Wayfarers from Buy.com, $5.81 (shipping included)

Forever21 Shimmering Faux Stone Necklace, $7.80

Charlotte Russe Perched Owl Ring, $4.00

Perfect for:  Wondering around a small town Fourth of July festival or an intimate backyard BBQ.

Styles for Less Eyelet Tiered Dress, $26.99

Payless Rockwell Woven Low Wedge, $12.99

Fred Flare Red Heart Sunnies, $14.00

Forever21 Faux Stone Pendant Necklace, $6.80

Forever21 Boho Braided Necklace, $4.80

Charlotte Russe Hammered Long Shield Ring, $4.00

Charlotte Russe Oval Gem Cocktail Ring, $4.00

Hair options: F21 Wide brim hat, low pigtails or two fishtail braids. 

Perfect for:  Running out the door to grab some ice cream, or for daytime water activities like canoeing/paddle boating or finishing the night watching fireworks from a rooftop or bed of a pickup truck.

Hanes Tagless V-neck Tee Shirt, $12.50 for a pack of five
Forever21 Destroyed Denim Cutoffs in light denim, $17.80

Dollar General Striped Flats, $6.98

Forever21 Desert Heat Bangles, $7.80

Charlotte Russe Beaded Wire Hoop Earring (trio), $4.00

Perfect for:  Any kind of party resembling something similar to what Betty and Don Draper would attend.

dELiA's Polka Dot Dress in red, $34.50
AE Kendal Knot Wedge in red, $24.99
Charlotte Russe Bow Earrings, $4.00
Forever21 Glamour Girl Wallet, $7.50

Perfect for:  An outdoor evening picnic or concert in the park.

Forever21 Jersey Maxi Halter Dress in blue, $22.80
Preserver Canvas Espadrille High Wedge, $22.99
Forever21 Accordion Leatherette Handbag, $19.80

Forever21 Desert Heat Bangles, $7.80

Charlotte Russe Linked Filigree Disk Earrings, $4.00

Happy Independence Day everyone! Be safe out there. And hydrate often.