4th of July outfit inspiration (without buying anything new!)

last year’s 4th of July post

This is the first time in my entire working “career” that I don’t have to work on the 4th of July. Every summer since 2008 has been spent working as a lifeguard, swim coach, pool manager (or all 3) so I’m used to wrangling children on all the summer holidays: Memorial Day, 4th of July & Labor Day.

It’s actually weird for me to get paid for not working (the only perk of corporate America is PTO) but I’m excited to scope out all of the beaches near the new apartment. We also found this event called the Bikini Reggae Boat Cruise right in Newport Beach so I’m thinking we may check that out…at the very least it sounds like an experience.

I’m not a huge 4th of July fan (probably cause I’m always working it), so I didn’t want to drop any $$$ on new pieces to wear this weekend. I knew there would be plenty of items I could mix & match in my closet to make some festive outfits.

Here are a few outfits I put together with items I already owned:

This gingham top is a staple in my closet (you’ve seen it here, here, here and a million other times), this red purse (similar) I’ve had for a few years (see here, here, here) and these white jean shorts I snagged at Target last month (they haven’t made it to the blog yet!)

All of these pieces can be worn all summer (and some all year) so you can look stylish & patriotic without buying a flag print tee!

shop this look:

Another easy look (that could work for casual Friday at the office) combines white jeans (a summer staple), lace up flats (worn here) and last year’s star print button down. I’ll admit, the star print shirt is a bit more patriotic than my average button down, but it can still be remixed over the years

shop this look:

Last but not least…this is perfect for a cookout, trip to the beach, or a casual dinner out. This dress can (and will) be worn ALL summer long (since I own it in black too!) and you can stay on trend by throwing an easy bandana around your neck & some comfortable white sneaks (seen here, here).

shop this look: