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4th of July Looks

Show a little patriotism this Independence Day with subtle Americana

Between the recent Supreme Court ruling to make same-sex marriage legal in all 50 states and the continued, indomitable notion that with persistence anything is achievable, there’s plenty to be proud of in the USA. While it’s not a country without flaws, showing a little patriotism doesn’t hurt—especially when it’s done with a little class. We’re not advocating wearing the flag as a cape, but here are a few fun ways to celebrate the stars and stripes that don’t have to be shoved in the back of your closet the rest of the year.

T-Shirt Luxaflex

Infamous Dutch artist Parra shows off his distinct style in this Luxaflex T-shirt (€35), which utilizes his signature colors of choice—coincidentally the very same that appear on the USA’s flag. Boasting a patriotic star-spangled bikini, this top is perfect for beach BBQs this 4th.

Grey-Blue Star Socks

Continuing their tradition of making cheerful, bright socks, Happy Socks have released their summer 2015 collection, and leading the way are the subtly cheerful, limited edition Grey-Blue Star Socks ($12). Like all socks from the brand, they will make a comfy addition to your collection—with a little spirited patriotism on the side.

Benassi “Star” Slides

In bright red, white and blue colorways, Nike Sportswear’s latest

Benassi Slide “Star” slides ($32) commit to one patriotic color, but make it loud and proud. As far as summer beach and pool footwear goes, these sport a soft, textured footbed and one padded strap. Stars align on the strap, for an added element of seasonal fun.

Traditions Boardshorts

Based in Costa Mesa, California, RVCA’s indigo- and red-striped Traditions Boardshorts ($55) are a part of their festive July 4th collection. These four-way stretch shorts are a classic, and the pattern will also surely last for several summers to come.

Trapeze Dress

The self-taught French designer Simon Porte Jacquemus captured the hearts of the LVMH Prize’s jury panel—winning a special prize earlier this March—by finding the sweet spot between poetic and avant-garde, evoking the colorful mise-en-scene of fellow compatriot Michel Gondry. In his spring/summer 2015 collection “Les parasols de Marseille,” the bold stripes of beach umbrellas and deckchairs are placed onto carefree, unbalanced silhouettes—and this Jacquemus trapeze dress ($228) effortlessly channels the seaside, even if you’re celebrating the 4th on a very landlocked rooftop.

Pick Me Up & DC T-Shirt

Maricor Maricar specializes in embroidery and textile work, developing larger original projects while also taking requests for custom pieces. Their phrase on the Pick Me Up & DC T-Shirt ($38) was specifically designed for the Pick Me Up design and illustration festival. This 100% cotton shirt is simple, but Maricor Maricar’s original embroidered work adds a splash of color in the center, inspired by hands-on creativity and craftsmanship that focuses highly on details.

Polka Dot Short Sleeve Button Down Shirt

Mark McNairy’s groundbreaking, contemporary American style takes form in this Polka Dot Short Sleeve Button Down Shirt ($154). Made of 100% cotton, the design for this shirt makes a bold statement, and a patriotic one if worn on the 4th.

Unisex Hand Shirt

Originally made for men as part of the special Lazy Oaf collaboration “A FUN Project” in April this year, the Hand Shirt has been made unisex. The oversized shirt is made of 100% cotton and—whether it’s because of the hand or the eye of Jack Sachs’s original artwork—the pattern on this subtle red, white and blue shirt is guaranteed to grab attention.

Images courtesy of respective brands

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