Every 4th of July, Americans celebrate Independence Day by enjoying traditional parades, concerts, barbecues, beaches, and at twilight, spectacular fireworks that light up the skies in cities and towns across the country. Everywhere you look, the flag’s red, white and blue colors are proudly displayed – street decorations, parade floats, home and yard décor, our clothing, even some pets get into the act!
With Independence Day coming up, you’re probably thinking about outfits for your own kids…something patriotic and fun. Luckily, we’ve got lots of star-spangled ideas for you!
What are some red, white and blue styles that look cute, but not too over-the-top?
While they’re by no means the only colors to wear on the Fourth, red, white and blue are clear winners when it comes to the holiday. Wearing any or all of these flag-inspired colors is a perfect way to show patriotic spirit. That being said, there’s a fine line between “tasteful” and “too much.”
We love this simple-yet-stylish Zoe Red Dress. If your daughter likes fuss-free, feel-good clothes, do yourselves a favor and take a look. Its one-shoulder design looks so cute, plus the easy knit keeps her comfortable whether she’s watching the local parade or marching in it. (There’s a navy version, too.)
Light blue looks so fresh among the sea of navy blues – making this Embroidered Eyelet Ruffle Dress a charming choice for any Independence Day event. And if you’ve ever worn lightweight cotton eyelet, you know nothing beats the heat quite like it. Bring it on, summer!
Another favorite is this gorgeous Embroidered Eyelet Smocked Dress, in white with red trim. Again, summery cotton eyelet keeps a girl cool, while the trim adds a kind of fiesta feel. Party perfect, right? And in case you’re wondering, yep, it’s fully lined.
If you want a red-white-blue dress that doesn’t look dated by July 6th, this cute Striped Dress with Ruffle Collar is a winner. The dramatic collar and back red-tie detail make it fun and really unique. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how often you pull it out of her closet throughout the season.
How about a statement shoe? Girls love showing off their shiny Red Sparkle Shoes to anyone within, oh, 30 feet. The blue version is every bit as fun. And how adorable would sisters look in coordinating sparkle shoes?!
We all love denim but let’s face it, on sweltering days, jeans can feel pretty uncomfortable. Especially if you’re perpetually in motion, like most boys we know. To the rescue – Santa Fe Denim Shorts. You have to look closely to realize they’re actually a knit. Super-soft, with a full elastic waistband, no less. He gets the jeans look with summer comfort. Pure jean-ius.
Our Blue Beach Pants (also available in white) fall into the “summer essentials” category. With just the right mix of stretch and soft, they keep little guys going strong with minimal fussing and fidgeting. You’ll love the versatility – add a festive tee and roll the hems for casual-cool style on the 4th. Pair with a nice button-up shirt for dressier outings.
Another great option: our Red Adaptive Dockside Shorts. Whether he’s sittin’ on the dock of the bay or playing there, these are terrific. A bit of polyester adds stretchy comfort a little guy needs when knocking around with his buddies. Plus, they’re well-made and look dressy enough to even wear to a casual summer wedding.
How about some patriotic alternatives to red, white and blue?
If red-white-blue is too much for you, try stars and-or stripes! They let kids show their patriotic spirit in a more subtle way.
If you’re heading to a barbecue, this cute outfit could be perfect for your daughter. All-American denim and star appliqués team up on Denim Sequin Embellished Star Shorts, with sequins for smidge of sparkle. A vintage wash and lots of frayed edges give ‘em that “old favorite” look we love. Top it with this soft, stretchy rhinestone-starred Navy Tank. The evening always gets chilly as you’re waiting for the fireworks, so toss on the matching Denim Sequin Star Jacket. Adorable!
Heading to a party on the 4th? While this Gold Star Sequin Jacket isn’t what you’d call subtle, it is what you’d call fabulous. As in, too terrific to pass up. Snazzy gold sequins. Sporty bomber style. Enough said.
Who says 4th-of-July stars have to be white on blue? How about silver on black? A little edgier look for non-traditional girls, this Star Sweatshirt Tank is made of super-soft French terry. Get a pair of the matching shorts, too, and she’s set to happily hang out with friends all day long.
If the beach is your destination, here’s a couple options for your boys. Our Navy Stripe Camp Shorts should be called camp/beach/playground/backyard/park/vacation shorts. Soft French terry has a bit more heft than typical jersey knits, and the elasticized waistband won’t pinch or stretch out of shape (even after boyish tugging and trips through the washing machine). If given a chance, we’re pretty sure boys would live in these.
Our fun Striped Swim Trunks feel patriotic without going overboard. The quality and fit details will keep your surfer dude comfy whether he’s doing cannonballs or building sandcastles.
Picnic in the park? Have this cute Rainbow Stripe Pom-Pom Dress ready! Honestly, those fresh, colorful stripes just make everyone happy. Lightweight cotton is made for comfort and play, plus the dress is lined, so no show-through to worry about. We can also see this worn at birthday parties, the beach, an outing with a favorite auntie…
Oh, say can you see…matching outfits on mommy and me!
Mommy-and-me outfits are fun to wear anytime, but the 4th weekend seems like the perfect time to bring out those special dresses. If you’d like to stay with a traditional color, White Embroidered Dresses look fresh and modern, not to mention feel super-cool and comfy. Bonus: they’re machine washable because, hey, spills happen.
For you maxi fans, try our Tiered Pastel Maxi Dresses. They’re loose, flowy and an absolute breeze on warm July days. And unlike a lot of pastels, these aren’t too saccharin-sweet. After sunset when you’re watching the fireworks or sitting around the patio (or playing around the patio), toss on cozy sweaters and enjoy. You can find more outfit inspiration in our Mommy-and-Me collection.
What if I just want a summery outfit for my kid – forget the red, white, blue, stars and stripes?
We get what you mean. So here are a few summer standouts that would look terrific on July 4th, but also on August 4th. Or even September 4th.
How about this snazzy Shark Fin Shirt? It’s got a jaw-some print that looks so cool with just about any pants or shorts. Sure, the colors may say “4th”, but the print definitely says “fierce!” Almost all boys love it, we’re guessing your little one will, too.
What’s the Fourth without ice cream?! Nothing says summertime fun quite like this sequin Ice Cream Dress. While the colors are luscious, that sparkly ice cream cone appliqué really catches a girl’s eye. On the practical side, its soft, stretchy knit will hold up through many a summer adventure (including trips to the ice cream stand!), making this a great “add to bag” item you don’t want to pass up.
Another style to consider: a charming Chambray Rose Print Dress. The colors are a subtle nod to Independence Day, without a star or stripe in sight. Soft chambray and a pretty rose print make it perfect for so many summer outings. There’s even a coordinating romper for little sister that’s just adorable, if you’re a fan of dressing daughters alike.
There are tons of cool styles in our Fourth of July collection. Check it out soon – the holiday is coming up fast. Have a happy and fun Fourth!
