From BBQs to pool parties, fireworks to—oh yeah, our nations independence--there is so much to celebrate this Fourth of July. 

 

Now, just to get it out of the way—can we all agree that the 4th of July being on a Wednesday is not the most ideal situation? That, of course, doesn’t take away all the fun. Even though we have to go to work the next day, it simply means we have to have THAT MUCH more fun looking fabulous so we can tell our friends about it at work the next day.

 

So whether you’re spending the day grilling at the BBQ or chilling by the pool, here are some fun ways to show your American spirit and celebrate the holiday in style
(and really, lets be honest—I love summer, and I love holidays—any excuse to dress in theme and I’m already there.)

 

While wearing the patriotic red, white and blue isn’t completely mandatory for 4th of July celebration, I definitely believe in throwing in a few small touches of all three colors into your ensemble.. because really—what other time of the year can you wear all three colors and not look like you’re wearing a costume?

 

To take the guesswork out of figuring out what to wear, I’ve put together three different style options that will work depending on what your plans are for the day. As always, feel free to mix and match elements of each to find your perfect outfit.

    

1) BBQ Champion -This outfit perfect for a hot summer BBQ. Pair a blue check or plaid top (farfetch.com) with some (all-American) denim shorts (hm.com) for a laid back chic. Pair it with some cute red accessories like these red converse (converse.com) and red shades (alexandchloe.com) and you’re ready for that watermelon, corn on the cob and owning the three-legged race.

 

 

2) Everybody in the pool - Ah, the pool party. If there were any place I’d want to be this 4th, it would definitely be by the pool. Be pool ready with a striped bikini paired with some red denim shorts (aritzia.com) and a chic beach tote (tommy.com) and a pair of cute wedge sandals. You could also opt for a chic cover-up, and of course don’t forget the hat and sunscreen.

 

 

3) Firework Fab – Be a firework in a cute simple navy dress (forever21.com) that’s perfect for a hot summer night of fun. Pair it with some simple t-strap sandals (editnewyork.com) and this adorable navy blue wrap bracelet with gold detailing (jcrew.com). Finish of the outfit with a pop of red, like this red chain strap clutch (stylebop.com).

 

 

Of course no 4th of July outfit is complete without these fun patriotic beauty picks. Here’s how to polish of your outfit with a little touch of fun.

 

Nails – This year nails are the hottest accessory and for the 4th there’s no exception. Try a patriotic mani with red, white and blue polish (essie.com) or try out some fun American flag nail wraps (nailrock.com) that are sure to impress.

 

Makeup – What could be more perfect for the 4th than rocking a sexy red lip? Pair this perfect pout color (MAC Russian Red, maccosmetics.com) with a 50s-style black winged liner (or blue if you’re daring) for a sexy chic look.  Or if you prefer lips that really pop, try a festive temporary lip tattoo (Violent Lips, sephora.com) for a patriotic pucker that will last all day. Finish your look off with some star glitters (Make Up For Ever, sephora.com) applied with eyelash glue for some star-spangled fun.

 

Hair – Colored streaks and dip-dyed hair are this season’s biggest trend. Try an Americana-themed dip-dye or simply add some red and blue streaks for some non-permanent hair fun (Streekers, ulta.com).

 

Another option, and one I’m can’t wait to try this holiday is the patriotic fishtail braid: 


 

 

While it looks difficult, it’s actually quite simple to do—just a matter of tying different colors of string to your hair then braiding it all into a fishtail braid for the ultimate 4th of July braid that will have your friends begging you to tell them how you got the look. Find out how to do it here

 

Whatever your plans are this 4th of July, with the right outfit and accessories you can look fab and have a total blast with these fun options. Have a great holiday!!

 

Kelly Glenn of Kiss and Tell Beauty Blog