What happens when you take classic colors like blue, white and red and combine them? Spontaneous patriotic combustion!  A few of the best things about summer are the warm weather, family picnics, and local fireworks on the Fourth of July to celebrate our country’s independence. There are lots of ways to put together a style salute to the U.S.A. They can be literal such as t-shirts or other items festooned with symbolic patterns like stars and stripes, or you can mix and match items you already have to create some star spangled style with very little effort. According to www.usflag.org, “white signifies purity and innocence, red, hardiness and valor, and blue, signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice.”  So do a tribute to our nation in the way that you feel comfortable with!

In the summer, a lady’s fancy turns to dresses, just for the ease and the breeze of it all. If you don’t have a dress in one of the three colors of our flag, i.e. red, white, or blue, you should consider shopping at your local Goodwill to see what you can find. These colors not only represent all things American, but also in addition are iconic style classics. One of these three tones will look good on almost everyone, so start your hunt now for your perfect summer dress! Classic white is a good bet for the blonde and the sun loving. Keep it chic and simple with a cotton wrap dress, sundress, sheath, or tunic style.

When it comes to the blues there is more of a range in tones that would fit the Americana theme. From navy to royal there is something about blue that just makes everything else pop! This color looks great on EVERYONE!  Find a fancy style that fits and flatters, but is comfortable enough for picnicking. You’ll hit just the right note of American pride with some red patent flats or pumps. With the addition of a light cardigan sweater or shawl, your red white or blue dress can take you all the way through to the “bombs bursting in air” at your neighborhood celebration after dark. 

You know the old saying “better red than dead?” (Or maybe you don’t?) Either way, red is a hot color for summer, fall, winter and spring dresses. It’s a great foil to the other colors of our nation’s greatest symbol, creating contrast and interest as quickly as the flash of a firecracker. The colors of our flag are all complementary tones. That’s why this trio works very well together and have recurring roles for lots of designers, but in particular Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger, who have kept the preppy nationalistic vibe going for season after season with their sportswear choices.

If you are a little subtler in your approach to celebrating independence with style, you may want to opt for an accessory or two that reflect your personal fashion sense.  A great pair of red shoes, from canvas espadrilles, to patent leather flats, or platform peep toe pumps can turn a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt into a patriotic ensemble in no time. They can also transform last year’s royal blue strapless dress into a chic symbol of celebration!  Hats, sunglasses and sporty watches and bangles all work their magic when it comes to mingling red, white, and blue for a fashionable effect.

Whatever you and your family plan for the Fourth, Goodwill can help you make it special and spectacular. From clothing and accessories to house wares and more, it’s the first place you should go to begin setting off your own summer fashion fireworks!