Merica

Okay, I'm all for cheese when it comes to holidays. I especially appreciate (mostly for entertainment purposes) the one person at the party who goes all out. However, there is little that I hate more than the couple or herd of bromances or gaggle of women who show up to party in, for lack of a better word, trashy and over-the-top "outfits" to a themed party. 4th of July seems to be the creme de la creme of dweebs in homemade, flag turned board shorts or crop top. This holiday, in my opinion was the start of themed parties. Today, Independence Day (though I'm not sure why) is a confusing blend of Halloween and New Year's. THIS IS NOT OKAY PEOPLE.

Gentleman you don't have to wear an American Flag Speedo for the rest of us to know that you love the USA. Ladies, sequin flag string bikinis are for 10-year olds or performers in Vegas. Most of us are neither nor.

Don't get me wrong I love a good costume, but let's do ourselves and good ole Uncle Sam a favor and mix red, white and blue Jell-O shots with some cool yet festive gear for the 4th.

These Jeffery Campbells are TODIE for. I snagged them off FP BLDG 25.

One of my fave DIY blogs I Spy DIY shows you how to make these!

Another FP BLDG 25 find. Jean on jean is a must this summer.

One of my blog's inspirations comes from my coworker, Lauren on her blog Moonchild. Her style is impeccable and she here, she totally has the carefree, all-American look, even without being stars and strips

This one piece with boyfriend jeans is RIGHT up my alley. Comfort meets beach sex. Find it on Natalie Off Duty.

Monochromatic white for the 4th us genius. A totally trendy look that I guarantee no one at your party will be sporting. AND the grungy converse... perfection. Find it on Natalie off Duty.

This 90s grunge look is perfect for hot temps.

What would this summer be without nail art? This Pinterest find is a mix between hand painting and stick-ons. I like.

I love her rings. Found on Natalie Off Duty.

If you're in to the retro pin-up look this are awesome.

Uh hi. 4th of July perfection here. Although the bag is over the top for me here. Too matchy-matchy for my taste.

This was found on one of my favorite Swedish style blogs, Victoria Tornegren. It is understated, American style: ripped jean, over sized sunnies and badass hardware to boot!

Now go! Be bold and passionate women, not gaudy and slinky!