How can you celebrate Independence Day without looking like an extra in a beer commercial? First, ditch your star-spangled bikini. Second, take inspiration from the fashion crowd: The style pros like to riff on the red, white and blue color palette—whether through an abstract print or a thoughtful accessory—in summer-appropriate silhouettes and fabrics. Here, three outfit ideas that won’t make you look like something out of the parade.
Photo: Vanessa Jackman
A color-block knit and breezy culottes work everywhere from a boat in Maine to a garden party in Connecticut.
Slingback Sandal In Navy
$98
Everlane
Vegetable Tanned Leather Crossbody Flap Bag
$495
Mansur Gavriel
Calvi Sunglasses
$405
Prism
White Smart Culottes
$70
River Island
Color Block Cotton Top
$120
Solid and Striped
Top a retro bikini with a lightweight cardigan and printed shorts for a beachside bash.
Woven Flats
$230
J.Crew
Toquilla Hat
$200
Calypso St. Barth
High-Waisted Bikini Set
$48
Topshop
Petite Blue Cotton Cardigan
$28
Dorothy Perkins
Printed Brocade Shorts
$1,295
Dolce & Gabbana
A more sophisticated celebration calls for a tweed minidress and refined accessories.
Spelio Espadrille Sandals
$495
Paul Andrew
Tweed Dress
$1,225
Barrie
Golden-Glow Boosting Moisturizer
$45
Clarins
Diamond Cutout Fedora
$275
Lola Hats
Gramercy Mini Messenger
$49
Deux Lux