The summer is upon us and with Fourth of July less than a month away, I know I’m getting into full gear with my party preparations. I’ve recently been pondering my fashion essentials for the shindig of the summer, and have come up with the accessories and clothing pieces you need to have the best Independence Day celebration yet! So get your credit cards ready, because you’re going to want to grab these items before it’s too late.
The Shorts
Let those gams get some sunshine and wear some cute little shorts that will see you receiving compliments left and right. You can’t get more classically American than channeling your inner Daisy Duke and putting on some cut-off denim shorts. Check out the varied styles of denim shorts at Levi.com, one of America’s most iconic denim manufacturers, and rock the original summer beach-bunny look.
A Striped Affair
I’m a sucker for some elegant stripes, and a striped shirt can invoke some images of sailing—perfect for a summertime celebration. Need more incentive? You’ll be wearing one half of the stars and stripes theme. I love red and white, or blue and white stripes if you want to capture the essence of a patriotic nautical theme.
The Facial Essentials
As the Fourth of July tends to be a heated affair—it is the dead of summer after all—make sure your makeup isn’t sweating off your face in the afternoon sun. If you want to keep your foundation set for hours, it’s essential to use a powerful primer that will smooth your skin and keep your liquid and powder foundations looking their best even hours after application.
My newest favorite is the primer from Colorescience. It doesn’t feel greasy like many other primers can, and it keeps my face looking dewy and freshly made up for hours on end. I haven’t even told you the best part, though: this primer contains sunscreen, so you’ll be looking great and keeping your skin safe even after spending an entire day in the sunshine!
The Perfect Sunnies
Your skin isn’t the only thing that needs protection from the summer sun. Grab a pair of stylish sunglasses to keep those irises safe during the long periods of sun exposure, and complete your outfit with a bit of mystery. While you should always select glasses based on the shape of your face, I have yet to meet a friend who couldn’t rock Ray-Ban’s classic wayfarers. I especially like how they sell a version that folds up. This is perfect for any lightweight summer outfit because the folded shades can slip right into your clutch – leave the bulky bags at home ladies!
The Swimsuit
If you’re going to a Fourth of July poolside shindig or beach party, a swimsuit is a definite must, but what to choose?! Instead of pulling out that bikini you wore last year or donning an American flag top like every other gal on the beach, dare to be different and draw some fun attention with the hilariously saucy “Bae Watch” red one piece from Private Party. Pair it with those denim shorts and you’ve got a simple but eye-popping look that will have all of your friends jealous.
When the Sun Goes Down
Once the sun sets, temperatures might dip depending on where you’re reveling, but that’s no reason to head inside—there are fireworks to watch, after all! Make sure you’re ready for cooler breezes by tying a sweet cardigan around your waste earlier in the day. Not a cardigan lover? Grab my new obsession: this amazingly trendy bomber jacket from Topshop.
$100 may seem like a lot for a fashionista tight on finances, but trust me, this jacket is worth it! Bomber jackets are totally in right now and the lightweight material make this piece a staple in any wardrobe that can be worn all year long.
Make sure you rock your Fourth of July look with these summer essentials and watch mouths drop when you show up on the scene.
Breanne is an emerging fashion blogger based out of sunny Southern California. When she’s not shopping at the mall she can be found on the beach with sunglasses on her face and a book in her hands. Follow her on Twitter @ProperNPink!
