The Fourth of July is, above all else, an opportunity to gather with family and friends. But with the national holiday comes what can be a fashion-lover’s biggest nightmare: the daunting color combination of red, white, and blue, and the potential attempt to master all three colors in one classy outfit. Naturally, your options can feel a bit limited, and even redundant, especially when you’re only working with three specific shades. But getting ready for an Independence Day fête (whether you’re grilling at home in the backyard, headed to the beach, or attending an event) doesn’t mean you have to reach for something covered with the American flag.
Whatever you choose to do this Independence Day, the best way to celebrate is in a look that speaks to your confidence and unique personality. It’s time to get inspired by summer street style so you can put together an ensemble that’s fitting for the full season and has maybe just a subtle hint of patriotic spirit. Fortunately, there are plenty of chic ways to work these bold colors into your outfit and put your own flair on the standard holiday uniform. Whether you team a breezy dress with a favorite pair of sneakers; opt for a monochromatic, all-red ensemble; or select your go-to denim cutoffs as the foundation of your outfit, you’ll be glad for keeping these handy ideas on rotation for the next few months.
Keep reading to soak up inspiration just in time for whatever your plans are this Fourth of July.
July 4 Outfit Idea: A White Tank Top and Denim Skirt
Image Source: Darrel Hunter
Keep it simple and chic on July 4 in a white tank top (added bonus if it’s designer) and a denim skirt with a high front slit. Add a cool pair of sunglasses, a blue clutch, and a red lip if you wish, and you’re good to go.
1 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Plaid Dress + a Button-Down
Channel your inner schoolgirl with a classic checked tunic dress like this red-and-black mini. To add structure, layer the dress over a white collared shirt and throw on a pair of your best ballerina-inspired lace-up shoes for a touch of unexpected edge. You can never go wrong with black accents or gold jewelry, so finish with statement earrings and a staple bag like this Dior pouch.
2 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: Retro Stripes
Channel the ’90s this Fourth of July in a relaxed, striped two-piece set, just like these preppy-meets-sporty Ralph Lauren coordinates. Throw on a pair of white sneakers and finish with gold and silver jewelry to strike a casual vintage vibe.
3 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Matching Set
When you don’t know what to wear, a matching set will never steer you wrong. Opt for a denim two-piece like this logo-fied Miu Miu bralette and paper-bag pants combo. Complete the look with white sneakers and an easy shoulder bag.
4 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: All Gingham
Opt for a red-and-white gingham dress like this Gogo Graham ensemble that features a belt and statement-making balloon sleeves with ruching. If you’re feeling extra daring, tie on a scarf of the same print babushka style and throw on some white lace-up platform boots. Who said you can’t rock them in the summer?
5 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A White Tube Dress
There’s no better way to combat sweltering summer days than with a strapless tube dress. Opt for a simple white sheath teamed with your favorite sandals, like this beige Chanel pair. Accessorize with gold jewelry and add a pop of color with a colorful bag like this checkered clutch.
6 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Flouncy White Dress
You can never go wrong in a frilly white dress. Whether you want to throw on something standard or opt for a captivating silhouette like this poofy babydoll, the outfit options are endless. If you’re into grungy accessories, try a pair of thigh-high, lug-sole boots or add a pearl choker, like the ever-popular Vivienne Westwood Bas Relief choker.
7 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: Cutoffs and Combat Boots
Take the monochromatic approach in black, high-waisted frayed shorts and bold combat boots. Finish with a top that comes complete with a graphic and a pair of transparent sunglasses.
8 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: Bermuda Shorts + Loafers
Take your favorite slouchy denim Bermuda shorts and pair them with a cropped jacket or tee, plus classic embroidered loafers for an all-American look. Bonus points if your handbag has red, white, and blue embellishments.
9 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: White Denim + Cowboy Boots
Elevate your favorite piece of white denim with a pair of metallic cowboy boots. Offset poofy sleeves with edge thanks to a pair of black-and-white python ankle boots.
10 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Printed Dress + White Sneakers
A dress and a pair of sneakers is a classic outfit combo, and it’s perfect for any Fourth of July plans you may have. Go for an unassuming print like the fish on this red chiffon dress and throw on a pair of stylish sneakers like these Reeboks. Add a thin black belt, sunglasses, and a bag, and you’re good to go.
11 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Red-and-White Striped Dress
Stripes are always in style, and nothing says patriotic like a red-and-white shirtdress. Throw on a pair of white mules or sneakers if you want to keep it casual. Add a red bag and black shades to complete the look, and finish with a lightweight denim jacket for an added touch of blue.
12 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: Denim on Denim
Take a unique approach to a full denim outfit by playing with structure and silhouette. Summer is the best time to work a crop top, so grab your favorite denim bandeau and a pair of high-waisted jeans, then add an oversize denim jacket. Complete the look with bold sunglasses, like this black-and-green shield style, and white mules.
13 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Graphic Tee + Denim Shorts
Keep it casual this Fourth of July in a lightweight printed pullover paired with your favorite blue denim shorts. Throw on sneakers or knee-high leather boots to update your look. For a pop of color, a ’90s-inspired shoulder bag that plays up the shades in your tee is perfect.
14 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Red Dress + White Platforms
Nothing says summer like the breezy dress-and-sandals combo. Opt for a tiered, one-shoulder dress and grab a fun pair of sandals, like these Dr. Martens. Add a cream-colored bag with fun details and chunky gold jewelry.
15 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Pretty Top + White Pants
A good pair of white pants is the key to any good summer outfit. Adding a pretty top like this vibrant, floral ruffled off-the-shoulder top and accessorizing with a white bag screams summer. If you’re in the mood for some heels, throw on your favorite block heels or opt for a simple pair of slides.
16 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: Logos and Stripes
Still into the logomania trend? Here’s the perfect look to satisfy your style. Opt for a statement-making red-and-white logo shirt like this YSL tee, and turn it into a dress by adding a belt at the waist and teaming it with a striped blouse. Add a PVC bag and silver mirrored sunglasses for futuristic updates.
17 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: An Oversize Shirtdress
A shirtdress is the answer to any fashion dilemma, especially for the Fourth of July. This denim Gucci embroidered dress can be dressed up or down, but if you’re feeling preppy, throw on white socks and black loafers. Add a pair of colored lenses and you have the perfect casual yet polished summer look that’s an homage to the ’70s.
18 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: Patchwork Jeans + Red Sandals
Believe it or not, there is a sophisticated way to team up all three colors of the American flag. Opt for a white ribbed tank top and your favorite pair of high-waisted blue jeans and add a red statement shoe, like these Bottega Veneta mesh pumps.
19 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: All Red
Go big or go home this Fourth of July in an exciting red ensemble that includes your cutout bodysuit or swimsuit. Add structure with a strong-shouldered blazer in the same hue and finish the look with a pair of matching slacks. To balance out the dominant hue, complete the look with neutral accessories such as black sunglasses, a beige shoulder bag, and simple taupe-colored sandals.
20 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: All White
When in doubt, you can never go wrong with monochrome dressing. With white being the unofficial color of summer, put a fun spin on the concept by teaming a muscle tee with roomy linen pants and accessorizing with black and gold pieces for a nice contrast. Leather velcro slides provide a casual touch.
21 / 22
July 4 Outfit Idea: A Floral Minidress + Boots
For the floral-obsessed who want to stay on theme, wearing a red bouquet print is a great idea. Opt for a free-flowing silhouette and ground out your look with chunky leather boots and a white bag.
