Oh Say Can You See? …July is officially upon us! It definitely feels like summer here in San Diego, and I am soaking up every minute of the sunshine and elongated days. Even though we’ve been enjoying summer for about a month, 4th of July really feels like the kick-off to the season. And why not celebrate Independence Day in style? I know that the urge to wear over the top stars and stripes is tempting (and let’s face it– there will be no shortage of outrageous American flag attire, so why not save that for someone else.) Whether your 4th of July plans include BBQ’s, beach, or pool parties, I’ve compiled a few classy patriotic looks as well as a round-up of some of the best sales!

TARGET CHAMBRAY OFF-THE-SHOULDER DRESS (similar HERE & HERE) | MARC FISHER WEDGES | URBAN EXPRESSIONS CANTEEN CROSSBODY (SIMILAR) 

I love the look of chambray and the lightweight nature of this fabric makes it perfect in summer temperatures. This dress has since sold out (I’ve linked some similar options), but I absolutely love this style for a warm summer day where you’d like to look effortlessly put-together. Being petite in stature, I like things to be form-fitting, otherwise I completely drown in clothing. I have learned to make simple adjustments to certain items to make the fit more desirable on my small frame; like adding a belt to this otherwise shapeless dress. It instantly accentuates my waist and the proportions become more flattering. I kept the colors simple, choosing to go with a neutral combination of tan and denim, but this could easily be accessorized in countless ways.

ABERCROMBIE & FITCH PAISLEY PEPLUM CAMI (ANOTHER VERY FESTIVE OPTION, HERE) | DEMIN SHORTS (OLD) | MARC FISHER WEDGES |  MICHAEL KORS JETSET CROSSBODY 

If you are on the hunt for something more casual, this adorable peplum cami is lightweight, and perfect for a festive 4th of July with its red, white, and blue paisley print. The fit was perfect on me, with the ruffle beginning right underneath my belly button and the ending right under my hip. I would probably pair this with tennis shoes or flat sandals for a more casual beachy look, but I just can’t get enough of these wedges! Plus, I love the look of shorts and wedges for a leaner look, especially with my height (I stand proudly at 5’2″! Good things come in small packages, right?)

 

FOREVER 21 OFF-THE SHOULDER BLOUSE (SIMILAR, also worn in this post) | ABERCROMBIE & FITCH SUPER SKINNY JEANS | MARC FISHER WEDGES

I always feel a little more important when I wear red. Something about this color makes you feel fierce, and in this case, festive. If you want your attire to be a bit simpler on the 4th, you can’t go wrong with a red top and jeans. It’s patriotic without ‘trying too hard’ and is a classic look that can be jazzed up or dressed down depending on your plans. I do love this blouse, but it does run a little big– especially in the sleeves. Even though Forever 21 is usually a one-stop shop for trendy pieces, the generic sizing sometimes makes for a challenge in fitting different body types. All things considered, I do get compliments on this top whenever I wear it, and I don’t mind the fit being a little loose since it’s off the shoulder anyway.

TARGET GINGHAM OFF THE SHOULDER TOP | RED CLASSIC CANVAS TOMS | QUAY AUSTRALIA SUPER GIRL SUNNIES (on sale!)

I don’t know if there is anything more quintessentially summer than gingham. I am all about this trend right now, and what better time to sport 2017’s most popular summer print than 4th of July? This cute blouse was a Target find and is a smaller print than the larger traditional gingham pattern. The navy blue works well when worn by itself, or paired with these red Toms (which are my favorite color of all the Toms I own– they go with everything!) This look is perfect for anything on your Independence Day agenda!

NAVY AND WHITE STRIPED OFF-THE-SHOULDER TOP (similar HERE & HERE)

As you can tell by now, I LOVE off the shoulder tops! But can you blame me?  This off-the shoulder top is way more slouchy than the other styles I have, but the elastic “tube top” like band helps keep it in place. Navy blue and white stripes are a foolproof option for a 4th of July look. This outfit is flattering and likely easy to pull of with items that you already have in your closet. This can be dressed down with flats or sneakers.

SHOP THE BEST SALES!

One of the best things about Holiday’s, are the sales that come with them! If you plan on doing some shopping in addition to your grilling, swimming, picnicing and relaxing, here are some of the sales that are setting off major fireworks!

Abercrombie & Fitch //60% off select items and $20 off every $100 you spend (Use code: POOLSIDE)

Anthropologie // Summer sale now an additional 30% off

Banana Republic // Take 40 % off regular priced items, and 50% off already marked down clearance

Express // Take an extra 30% off clearance

Macy’s //20-60% off sitewide

Misguided //Up to 50% off entire site (Use code: BALLINBABES)

 

Happy shopping, and Happy 4th of July! How are you celebrating?

0