Red, White and Blue

photo by Kevin Anderson, Lawrence Journal World

To me, the 4th of July has always meant homemade ice cream, bar-be-que and beer, corn on the cob, family and friends, swimming at the lake, and sparklers (I'm a total sissy when it comes to lighting off fireworks).
The 4th of July is just around the corner, and this year, show your pride for the good ol' U.S. of A. in one more way--with the hottest patriotic fashions.
Stars and Stripes are the new American Chic.
Clad in Red, White, and Blue, you're sure to contend with all the Yankee Doodle Dandies, from sea to shining sea.

Maritime Madams:
The color palate of the American flag is already pre-approved; still, feel free to get creative and find a unique look--after all, it is Independence Day! These fashions can easily be sublte outfits or taken to the next level with accessories, hats, and shoes. For example, if you feel like a flag in red, white, and blue, just pair your favorite pair of blue jeans with a white top. But, if you do want to go all out, add a red belt, red and gold bangles, blue gingham espadrilles, a basket purse with a fun scarf attached, and a white sun-hat (with a red/white/blue ribbon, of course!).

Here are some more excellent Americana items (with a Nautical hint) to get you going:
Denim
Navy and white stripes
Yellow accents
Sailor Pants
Wide leg trousers
Broad-rimmed sunhats--red, white, or blue will do (accent with a ribbon in one of the other colors)
Canvas Espadrilles
Gilt accessories
Sailor Collars
Matelot buttons
Retro bathing suits
Yaht/Dinghy prints
White pearls
White sunglasses
Rope-ties
Gold braids/tassles
Red lipstick
Flag broaches
Bold flag stripes
Star-studded bracelets, earrings, belts, and bags
Jumpsuits
Beach Pajamas
Straw Hats

For ideas from designers--check out a few of my favorites that tout American fashion with pride:
Hilary & Co for its fun, nautical looks.
D&G (Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana's younger, "cheaper" line) features great tunics, jumpers, and beach pajamas with hints of red, white, and blue.
Antoni & Alison has great little details, like monogrammed leotards and sailor collars.
Brooks Brothers provides excellent menswear (and has a great straw hat!).
Coach, specifically for their Star-Studded Red, White, and Blue Bracelets.
Chanel is always a Parisian designer that provides proper American style--my favorite comes from their Spring 2008 show: a tweed jacket with rope-like gold-plaited chains and fringed seams and their fabulous navy crepe de chine pants with beatuifully ethereal stars.
Tommy Hilfiger (obviously) for his everything American style.