What will you wear this 4th of July?

The Fourth of July is a huge celebratory day, full of fireworks, friends and of course, fashion. While you may have just worn some denim shorts and an American flag tee in the past and called it a day so you could get first dibs on hot dogs at your neighbor’s barbecue, we all know you can do better. Here are a few ways to step up your style this Independence Day:

Rock that romper

Many women find rompers to be a pretty daring fashion choice. They may find one that’s on sale and spend the entire summer trying to work up the courage to wear it out of the house. Well, the Fourth of July is the unofficial mark of the middle of summer, so why not take the opportunity to wear that romper or any other summer fashion staple that may be lurking in your closet? Chances are, you’ll end up loving the outfit you were hesitant about wearing, and you’ll have the whole second half of the season to wear it again.

An airy dress

One of the best parts of the Fourth of July is the delectable plethora of barbecue food you have to choose from. While it may be tempting to wear one of your most fashion-forward sundresses, opt for a looser fitting, airier dress. This look is effortlessly chic, but you won’t have to worry about feeling uncomfortable in your outfit if you indulge in a little too much potato salad. Cinch the waist with a leather belt and pair the outfit with some gladiator sandals.

Wear some chambray

What’s more American than some good old-fashioned denim? Since the Fourth is typically one of the hottest days of the summer, you probably won’t want to wear a pair of blue jeans. Instead, opt for some red shorts and a chambray shirt. This look is comfortable and classic, especially if you polish the patriotic look off with some crisp-white sneakers.

Go maxi

Maxi skirts and dresses are the ultimate cool summer style. Ethereal and glamorous, they always give the impression that you put a great deal of thought into your look, even though you’re surely the most comfortable one of the group. Pair your maxi with a gold jewelry set and some sensible flat sandals. Or, go bold with some low-rise gladiator sandals.

Summer whites

There’s no better time than the Fourth of July to rock an all-white outfit. Whether you’re opting for a matching white blouse and shorts or a casual sundress, there’s no doubt you’ll look incredibly put together. Pairing this outfit with a red handbag and some comfortable flats in navy is a great way to give it a patriotic spin without looking costumey. Just make sure not to get ketchup or mustard on it!

Stars and stripes

Bold patterns are a great option for a midsummer party. If you’re going for a patriotic look, select red stripes or blue and white stars, but that’s not your only option. Any sort of pattern won’t look out of place at a party. This is even a great opportunity to rock that polka-dot dress you’ve been meaning to wear!

Protect your head

There’s no doubt you’ll be out in the sun this Independence Day, so shield yourself from the sun in a stylish way. Opt for a retro scarf, a la Jackie O, or a glamorous wide-brimmed sun hat. Pair this old Hollywood look with some cat eye sunglasses and people will wonder when the paparazzi will be showing up.

Don’t forget a flag

While you may want to steer clear of wearing an all-over American flag print, there’s no harm in honoring this great nation by accessorizing with one. There are plenty of ways to subtly wear a flag print without looking too kitschy. Try a printed scarf or purse with the flag on it. Otherwise, accessorize with some earrings or a necklace in America’s colors. You can even get your nails done with a patriotic manicure!