Red, White + Stripes

What do you think of when it comes to celebrating the 4th?

I think of having your dinner outside wrapped in a towel, still damp from swimming in the lake.  I think of grilled hot dogs and watermelon.  I think of friends and family gathered at the park or in the yard.  I think of sunshine.  And of course, I think of fireworks.  Basically all the things I grew up experiencing while celebrating America’s birthday in my small hometown.  We’re lucky enough to travel back to said hometown and enjoy similar weekends on the lake with my family all summer.  Which is exactly where we’re heading on the weekends surrounding the 4th.  Since the holiday falls on a Wednesday (ugh), we’re hoping there are festive activities happening on both weekends.  And with festive activities comes a festive outfit – a 4th of July outfit of course!

With my obsession with red this season, I immediately knew I wanted to incorporate the bold color for Independence Day.  Although, I didn’t want to go too bold and I wanted to be comfortable.  Are you sick of hearing that?  Seriously, the heat is my number one concern, especially on the 4th.  If we’re out and about, I will sweat and I will be instantly uncomfortable.  So, I require an easy, breezy outfit.  These red and white striped H&M shorts ended up being the perfect solution.  I’m obsessed!  They are loose yet flattering and oh-so-festive.  I paired the bold shorts with a simple gray tank (would be cute with blue, too!) to stay a bit understated and again… comfortable.  I bought the tank a few years back at Gap and have worn it a million times – I’ve linked similar ones below!

My trick to a successful 4th of July outfit?

Keep it simple.  In years past, I’ve honestly put too much thought into it.  This year, I promised myself I would refrain from buying any cheesy red, white & blue tees or tanks I will never wear again.  I also didn’t want a ton of accessories to mess with.  Because who wants hassle when there are boat rides to have and hot dogs to eat?  Not me.

xoxo.  B