THE JOURNAL
Some holidays, especially those that create long weekends during hot summers, are worth dressing up for. But no one wants a closet full of costumes – or pieces are that only appropriate for one day out of 365. (You will, inevitably, lose said piece in the back of your wardrobe and when the holiday rolls around again, you’ll have to start all over.) That’s why we’re proponents of owning things you actually like and allow you to sport some spirit on Independence Day.
Luckily, red, white and blue are classic colours that match well with tons of other colours. So, if you buy one piece from our selection below, rest assured it will likely go with at least 10 other things in your closet. We’re all about versatility – and patriotism when the moment calls for it.
01.
For a barbecue
Few brands are more synonymous with Americana than Polo Ralph Lauren. They’ve been the official outfitter of Team USA at the Olympics for years. So an aloha-style cotton shirt in a stars-and-stripes blue should be an obvious choice for a sunny barbecue. Paired with simple khaki trousers and another American classic, Converse, it delivers just the right amount of holiday spirit while not appearing costume-y in the least.
02.
For a ball game
Having a field day this year? Get sporty with a breezy mesh top from California-based brand ERL. And then why not wear it with jeans from another Los Angeles brand, Gallery Dept. And while you’re on a roll, top it all off with a hat from Rhude which is, you guessed it, another LA brand. When you’re done eating all the hot dogs, this outfit will serve you well on any weekend excursion.
03.
For a brunch
If you’re staying in the city over the holiday weekend, the good news is that you’ll probably be able to get into any restaurant your heart desires when the city empties out. So, this is the time to meet friends for a special, but low-key brunch. Don this RRL bandana-printed jacket (for the inevitable frigid AC) a casual but buttoned up shirt and slides. Comfort and style for what could turn into a daylong drinking affair.
04.
For the pool
If you’re not at a pool or a beach at some point during the 4 July weekend, did the US even win the Revolutionary War? Patriotism is best displayed via short-short swim trunks near a body of water, after all. TOM FORD will gladly supply, and to complete the look, pull on a luxe white cashmere hoodie from The Elder Statesman and blue lensed sunglasses from Garrett Leight.
05.
For dinner
A long weekend necessitates at least one visit to a nice restaurant – bonus points if you have a view of the ocean while you sip your wine. But even summer nights can be chilly, so we recommend packing a cardigan. Thom Browne’s signature red, white and blue grosgrain ribbon gets you where you need to go in terms of patriotic gear, so the rest of your outfit can be simple. Job done.