Our Top 10 Picks for Casual 4th of July Dressing

2. The Easy Dress.

We’ve talked about the casual ease of Joan Vass' fit and styling, so of course, we need to show you this dress. It’s waist sits at your torso’s smallest spot, and the tiers of the long skirt create an elongating effect that is very slimming. If you don’t like to show your arms, this cardigan is an easy option. Since it has an open-stich, it will be airy and cool on those warm days sitting outside and enjoying some quality time with friends and family. And we love the universally flattering minty green color.

2. The Easy Dress.

An alternative easy dress option, from Madewell. Owned by J.Crew, Madewell has a similar aesthetic in clean, universal styles that work for almost all ages and sizes. You can certainly see that in this flowing gauzy dress. It is a little sheer, but of course, Madewell has lined it to the knee so you get the light airy feeling, without having to worry about what to wear underneath - perfect for a barbecue or for a casual day in town. It does run big, so we recommend sizing down.

3. The Versatile Knit Top.

As we’ve mentioned, we are obsessed with J.Crew’s linen knits. This tank is an absolute favorite for it’s cut and drape – not to mention, it’s gorgeous assortment of marled colors. It’s hard to find a tank top that’s not too fitted, but also not oversized with large armholes - J.Crew has done it with this one. The straps cut in just a little, which really flatter your shoulders and arms but still allow you to wear a bra.

3. The Versatile Knit Top.

If you are looking for something with a little sleeve, this is the perfect white (or black) basic tee. It has an easy fit, and we know people of all ages and sizes that swear by this Eileen Fisher top. It is worth the price – the high quality cotton holds up, wash after wash.

4. The White Jean Shorts.

You’ll wear them to the beach or lake, to lunch…well, to everything. We can’t resist pairing it with a cool sleeveless tee (everyone looks great in this tee, it’s the perfect length and slightly looser body). Unlike blue denim shorts, white ones can feel a little more polished, when you pair them with a linen sweater, a great pair of sandals and a statement necklace. If you’re like some of us, and just can’t resist a pair of classic blue denim jeans shorts, these are a favorite.

5. The Easy Pants.

If you are looking for a relaxed fit, Mark Shale has always looked to Christopher Blue. The line always delivers with style and comfort, like they've done with this easy linen pair of pants. They are so versatile in a perfect beachy tan to wear with any color tee or tunic. If you're looking for a bit more of a contemporary fit, this Citizens of Humanity pair, is a great option, too. We love them both with this Mexican blouse for a casual dinner.

5. The Easy Pants.

In addition to a drawstring pair of pants, a great pair of boyfriend jeans is a must. Frame Denim is a newer line of jeans, in a fit similar to Citizens of Humanity or Joe’s Jeans. Le Garcon is their boyfriend fit, and they’ve done a wonderful job of creating a womanly boyfriend silhouette that’s loose and slouchy, but not oversized or sloppy. This lighter wash is perfect for the height of summer. Wear the cuffed rolled or as shown. If you are looking for, darker wash, these have an amazing fit, too.

6. The Layering Piece.

Need an easy sweater to layer over your tank top or tee when the sun starts setting? This one is versatile in it's neutral colors (especially this ivory), so it’s great for packing – it will go with almost everything. Wear it with shorts or jeans. It even has pockets, which is always an added bonus, especially when they don’t add any bulk. Free People always does that easy, beach feel so well.

7. The Scarf.

Of course, on 4th of July, we are out at night to watch those amazing fireworks. And depending where you are, the weather can get chilly. We love this cashmere modal scarf. It is sooo soft, and big enough to wrap around you. The neutrals, like taupe, will work year round. Or have some fun with the lime or any of the blues.

8. The Sunglasses.

We’ve already mentioned the Tom Ford Jennifer sunglasses that we all love here at the office, and this is another universally flattering fit. If you prefer a metal frame, you can’t go wrong with Ray Ban’s classic aviator. These are not only great looking, but actually give your eyes extra protection from light since they are polarized. The Aviator style was invented by Ray Ban in 1937 for military fighters…we think that’s given them enough time to perfect it, don’t you agree?

9. The Tote.

You are usually heading somewhere over the holiday weekend – the beach, lake, a friend’s pool party. And you’ve usually got a bunch of stuff with you. This tote is going to hold it all. Lo and Sons makes, as they say, “the little black dress” of totes – sleek, timeless, and functional. We love the separate bottom zipper compartment to put your dirty shoes or your ziploc full of sunscreens. It’s lightweight with interior pockets as well, so you won’t lose your keys in the abyss at the bottom of your bag.

10. The Sandals.

Of course, we need the perfect pair of sandals for any good summer fun. With Birkenstocks being everyone this season, we like the inspiration Sam Edelman took from them to design this pair. Available in a variety of colors and fabrications, it has a more polished feel with all the comfort. The brown we’re showing here is such a versatile shade. It will work with denim, be beautiful with white, and is neutral enough to tie back to black or any color.