Threads

Stay Holiday Chic for the Fourth

With the Fourth of July just around the corner, TCD helps you find that graceful balance between red, white and blue without going over the top.

By - Jun 30th, 2012 04:00 am

Between fireworks, grill outs and get togethers – you’re going to want to look your best for the Fourth of July. Achieving a graceful balance between red, white and blue without going over the top can be a challenge. The key to any great outfit is elegant and effortless simplicity, even when you’re working with bold colors. You’ll also want to choose fabrics and styles that are breathable to make those outdoor events a bit more bearable. Here are some tips to cool down your outfit while still keeping your look funky and festive for the Fourth!

Maxi dresses are the quintessential summer dress this season. The long and lean silhouette is flattering on all body types, which everyone can love! Choose a maxi-made of jersey for the perfect combination of light and airy in the July sun. To keep with the holiday spirit, try a fun maxi dress in a dark red or cobalt blue color. I love this dreamy blue maxi made by the talented designer Mirelia Solsona. Her navy blue infinity dress transforms with different styling and twisting, giving you a variety of look with one elegant piece.

Navy Blue Infinity Maxi Dress from “Mimetik” – $78 on Etsy.com

Another dress perfect for Fourth of July is this gorgeous vintage inspired dress handmade by designer Michelle Tran. This 60’s-inspired piece is very Mad Men-esque, with a fun plunging back neckline and a funky red belt. 60’s dresses are still all the rage and this classic piece will be the perfect investment for your closet, staying fashionable for years to come. The skinny straps and cut of the skirt will keep you cool during the festivities while staying retro chic. Style this dress with a matching red cardigan and blue necklace and you’ve got an outfit that’s both classic and festive, without being over the top.

Mad Men Dress with Deep V Neck from “MichelleTan” – $149 on Etsy.com

When accessorizing your outfit, it’s important to look beyond the typical red, white and blue. To avoid looking like the American flag, add some dashes of mixed metals and pearls. Adding timeless pieces like pearls and brushed metals will help to break up the garishness of bright colors, and make your attire more neutral.

As a huge fan of mixed metals and resin this summer, I was excited to find this stunning bracelet by artist L Morgan. The “Mackenzie” bracelet with strawberry red accents is beautiful solo, or added to layers of bracelets for a funkier look. Paired with either dress above, you’ll keep your outfit in theme without overwhelming your overall look.

The Mackenzie Bracelet from “GlamorMeJewels” – $22 on Etsy.com

Another cute accessory for the holiday is this gorgeous necklace from Laura Homes’ Kluster collection. This piece is the epitome of Fourth of July fun, with aqua blue, coral red and bright white brushed coral beads. Rather than pairing it with a similarly themed dress, pair this number with a plain white t-shirt and jeans to simplify your look. Add a pop of fun with metallic gold sandals for a finished look with a fun pop!

Fourth of July Coral Necklace From “Kluster” – $138 on Etsy.com

To finish your look, add a fun metallic clutch to your outfit mix. This clutch from Karen at “HoHoHats” is made of unconventional materials (heavy papers and corded silk), but a fun addition to any summer look. The clutch sparkles like a firework with applied mica flakes and applied Swarovski crystals, which add a lovely shine and texture.

Gold Mica Silk Clutch with Swarovski Crystals from “Ho Ho Hats” – $30 on Etsy.com

These funky and fresh pieces will keep you Fourth of July chic for all your festivities. Remember: red, white and blue are flattering in moderation. Add more neutral pieces – like metallics – to keep with the holiday spirit while harmonizing your look.

0 thoughts on “Threads: Stay Holiday Chic for the Fourth”

  1. Anonymous says:

    […] Threads: Stay Holiday Chic for a Fourth […]

Leave a Reply

You must be an Urban Milwaukee member to leave a comment. Membership, which includes a host of perks, including an ad-free website, tickets to marquee events like Summerfest, the Wisconsin State Fair and the Florentine Opera, a better photo browser and access to members-only, behind-the-scenes tours, starts at $9/month. Learn more.

Join now and cancel anytime.

If you are an existing member, sign-in to leave a comment.

Have questions? Need to report an error? Contact Us