3 Inspiring Looks for the 4th (And Beyond)….

Fourth of July Fashion Inspiration

So just like that summer is finally here! Mother nature must have missed the memo where I live as we have been dealing with rain for the last several days. We went to Chicago last week for a quick summer getaway. It literally was pouring rain the whole time. Of course the rain followed us back to Ann Arbor so we had the pleasure of dealing with even more rain. On the bright side, our grass is green, and the flowers I just planted (save for a single rose bush) are thriving. Anyway, it is hard to believe that Fourth of July is almost here. I’m already planning for the big day, as we are going to have a fun family celebration (see this post for how I have set our outdoor table for the day). I always have fun dressing up for the Fourth of July, and think it is so fun to see how others dress for the occasion. While it is fun to show your patriotism for the day, it is always nice to be able to invest in pieces that will work beyond the festive holiday. And that’s what today’s post is all about!

To be quite honest, I am actually terrified to be photographed in a bathing suit. After having four kids my body just isn’t what it used to be when I was in my twenties. So it would be hard pressed to get me to wear a bikini. But I’ve been working out a ton to get in shape for the summer, so at the very least you will see me wearing one pieces. I love wearing stripe one piece bathing suits such as this Becca Better Than Ever reversible one piece swimsuit. I grabbed this bathing suit during the Nordstrom Half Yearly sale, but unfortunately, just like that it was sold out (I can see why as it is under $40 and is reversible).  I am however linking to several other stripe swimsuits that look very similar (including this, this, and this).

What I like about this swimsuit (and the others I linked to above) is the subtle red, white, and blue colors. A bathing suit like this is perfect for the Fourth, yet the pattern is subtle enough to wear it any day of the summer. Really though, stripe swimsuits of any color are everywhere this season. I can see why, as vertical stripes definitely have a slimming effect (and I need all the help I can get!). Believe it or not, horizontal stripes (as in this swimsuit). can also be slimming too (as ling as the stripes are thin)!

We took these pictures on our way to Chicago, while we stayed at a local hotel just off of Lake Michigan. Luckily the kids and I were able to get a little bit of time in the pool before the rain hit!

My Go To Weekend Look

So when I’m not wearing the latest dress or work outfit, denim shorts and a T-shirt is my go to look for the weekend!  I am loving this red, white, and blue T-shirt from Kulen as it is perfect for the Fourth of July. This top is a bit pricey at $88, but I definitely appreciate the difference in cut, style, and quality.  This T-shirt is form fitting, but not too clingy which is what I really like about it. The fabric of this t-shirt is soft and it is neither too heavy or too light. And it is made so well that I know it will last through multiple washings. Kule T-shirts really are amazing, and I can see why!  This fun striped T-shirt can also be found in five other colors here. 

You cannot go wrong with a nice pair of cutoff denim shorts. I’ve been wearing these 7 For All Mankind denim shorts for multiple seasons, and they really do last! And if you are looking for a nice comfortable pair of slip on sneakers, I highly recommend these super comfortable shoes whenever you are in for a long day of walking. They are comfortable, stylish, and they offer great arch support. I love the perforated design! If white is not quite your style, these also come in pink, grey, blue, and black. 

My blue J. Crew Betty sunglasses are perfect with this top/jeans combo. I got my pretty blue ones last year, and this year J. Crew is offering them in a lovely aqua color. These sunglasses are definitely well-made, as they are both sturdy and stylish. 

 

A Striped Skirt for All

Most often you will find me wearing an above-the-knee skirt or dress. That is really because most dresses and skirts made for below the knee go down to my calf and they look ridiculous. I do love the look of a comfortable and stylish midi skirt though. When I noticed that this adorable 1901 bow button up stripe skirt came in petites, I knew I had to have it! 

My favorite aspect of this skirt is the adorable bow at the waist as well as the buttons that go down the front of the skirt. This skirt looks timeless, yet glamorous and comfortable at the same time. And the pretty pink/red color is perfect for the Fourth of July! 

How fun are these Baublebar Flower drop earrings? They are the perfect statement piece for an otherwise subdued outfit. I normally shy away from heavy earrings, but these actually feel quite lightweight. 

I debated about what to wear with the skirt. Ultimately I decided to also wear a top with bows to complement the skirt. This adorable white top is one of those summer basics that will go with so many outfits. The top is so soft, and the bows are adjustable so you can change the length of the top. And right now it is on sale for under $10!

So there is a not so funny story behind the pictures of this outfit. My daughter and I were standing there taking pictures, when all of a sudden we noticed a huge plume of smoke. All of a sudden smoke surrounded us too! We headed down the block to see what was happening. I asked a couple standing at the corner what happened and they replied, “It’s the barn with the cow!” I replied, “Like Chicago?” (referencing the infamous fire started by a cow that supposedly burned down the city). At which point they laughed and said it was a fiberglass cow statue in front of the barn (which makes sense as we are in the middle of the city). Thankfully, even though the barn burned down, no one was injured and the cow was ok. 

More Fourth of July Fashion Inspiration 

See below for more of my red, white, and blue favorites for this festive day and beyond!

As always, thanks for stopping by!

xo | April