As the July 4th weekend kicks off, there will be multiple events for you to grace your presence with. From cookouts to sit-down dinners to days on the beach, this weekend is sure to be filled with laughter and merriment. The question is: How patriotic should you dress?

I love the colors red, white, and blue. Often times when I am outfitting, I will unwittingly combine these colors together, only to stand in front of the mirror and think that I am wearing the American flag. I am taking this weekend as the opportune moment to sport as much of this color palette as possible! Stylish versions of this combo showed up on the runways of Limi Feu, Wunderkind, and Celine.

The trick to getting these colors down without looking like a patriotic postage stamp is to avoid motifs that may suggest the flag. Whenever possible, stick to big blocks of color. White polka dots on navy paired with red and white stripes will obviously recall the top of a flagpole. To inspire your own July 4th primary colored outfit, here is a cheap and chic lead:

Old Navy linen shift ($13, OldNavy.com) - Start with this dress as a blank canvas, literally. Ward off the heat with the linen blend. The thicker straps can easily hide supportive bra straps.

Gianni “Bini” belt ($34, Dillards.com) - Add some spice to the dress by breaking the white line with this bright red belt. The double buckle will add some much needed detail to an otherwise simple shift.

Sunner “Bondi” cardigan ($50, Shopbop.com) - I always carry a trustworthy cardigan around as a “just in case” piece. I never know if people will turn on their A/Cs or if the nighttime temperatures will plunge. Keeping the darkest of the primary trio to a piece you may or may not wear will lighten up the rest of your outfit.

J.Crew espadrilles ($125, JCrew.com) - Splurge a little on this elegant summer shoe. Choose the pebble color over the light shell for Independence Day. The metallic trim echoes the gold buckles of the belt to add a touch of pizzazz.

Erickson Beamon for Target necklace ($50, sarget.com) - Who says every piece had to reflect your patriotism? Inject your own sense of fun and personality with a statement piece of jewelry. Erickson Beamon’s charming necklace recalls a youthful spirit and happy memories.

Photos:
Style.com