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June 20, 2016

25 awesome red, white and blue-tiful vintage fashion finds for the 4th of July


 It might seem strange to some that I, a born and bred Canadian, would have a deeply rooted passion for America's birthday, but that indeed I do! As I've discussed here in various posts over the years, America's culture is very much intertwined at times with ours and it is impossible, for me at least, to share a border with a country and not be aware of all of its holidays - especially when they're as monumental and important as the 4th of July.

We Canadians, typically a more subdued bunch who are prone to quiet celebrations and understated shows of patriotism, do go all out for our nation's own birthday, which falls on July 1st, but there's still something deeply appealing to me about how gung-ho Americans get regarding Independence Day. From parades to festive foods to epic fireworks shows, it's all so lively, festive and fun (not to mention a marvelous way to kick off the first full month of summer!).

I've never celebrated the 4th of July on American soil, but would very much welcome the chance to do so one day. Until then, I'll happily mark the occasion in spirit from this side of the 49th, as well as here on my blog. This time around, with a selection of 25 exciting, holiday perfect red, white and blue vintage items of clothing, jewelry and accessories.

Naturally, one does not have to be an American or observe the 4th of July to embrace these patriotically hued pieces - the colours of which jive with those used for the flags of numerous other countries around the world, too, including the UK, France, The Netherlands, Australia, Russia, Thailand, Norway, Chile and many more. They're lively and fun, suiting the bold, dynamic months of summer superbly, while also (especially the red pieces) transitioning beautifully into fall.

I hope that you have as much fun checking out these stylish vintage wearables - each of which stars at least one of America's national colours - as might be had at a huge 4th of July bash, with sparklers, star topped cupcakes, and miniature American flags as far as the eye can see!



25 awesome red, white and
blue-tiful vintage fashion finds
for the 4th of July




1. Equally at home as part of both Canada Day and July 4th outfits, as well as nautical ensembles, too (not to mention Christmas and Valentine's Day ones), this beautiful c. 1930s/1940s woven vintage seed bead necklace is such a stylish, versatile piece that you'll be apt to reach for often the whole year through. $28.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




2. A relaxing palette of beautiful blues call this elegant 1950s floral print short sleeve dress home and would be a great choice for any holiday, picnic, birthday party, afternoon tea, or stylish everyday warm weather outfit. Fits up to a 36 inch bust/28 inch waist. $89.00 from Blue Velvet Vintage.




3. As awesome for Viva Las Vegas as it Independence Day, this bold, chunky 1950s/1960s molded red plastic and silvery-gold tone metal panel bracelet is such a chic piece that works wonders in the context of all sorts of vintage, pinup, rockabilly, retro, and modern looks. $35.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




4. File this incredible 1950s red and white wool rodeo queen worthy pants suit under "jaw dropping" because that is precisely what it is. Wow, wow and wow again! Even if it happens to be too warm to wear outdoors on the 4th, this really is the sort of head turning vintage western wear suit that will serve you well in the nippier months for many years to come. Fits up to a 36 inch waist (jacket) and 25 inch waist (pants). $250.00 from The Best Vintage Clothing.




5. Few things give off more of a festive vibe than bows, which this classically elegant 1940s/1950s navy blue ladies plus size crepe dress has in strategically appealing spots on both the neckline and skirt areas. Fits up to a 38 inch bust/34 inch waist. $75.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




6. Fabulous for when you need a little extra warmth after the sun sets - say, while watching festive fireworks or shooting stars whizzing across the inky summer sky - this gorgeous 1950s red angora and white beaded cardigan is will have your back now and see you warmly on through to the chillier months, too. Fits up to a 38 inch bust. From Bobbins and Bombshells.




7.They might not be soaring eagles, but the adorable birds depicted on this pair or white and blue mid-century vintage plastic hair barrettes are still more than worthy of being sported for any July 4th celebration. $15.00 for the pair from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




8. Awesome with shorts, capri pants, skirts, or even as a bathing suit cover up, this delightfully fun 1950s red, white and blue striped sleeveless blouse is sure to become a firm favourite in your sunny weather vintage wardrobe. Fits up to a 40 inch bust/38 inch waist. $35.00 from Blue Velvet Vintage.




9. Red and white combine forces with warm toned brass in this absolutely beautiful c. 1930s rhinestone and imitation pearl skeleton key and flower brooch that make for such a head-turning piece of 4th of July (or anytime!) jewelry. $24.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




10. Oh my word, how fabulously cute + chic is this magnificent mid-century vintage Sally Victor red, white and navy blue straw hat with navy veil? This yesteryear chapeau would rock for the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, President's Day, WW2 related events, or anytime you want to sport some seriously patriotic hues on your head. (On sale at the time of writing for) $44.00 from The Best Vintage Clothing.




11. I recently acquired, and have subsequently been listing, a lovely selection of mid-century vintage Mexican jewelry (including both sterling silver and alpaca pieces), amongst which one finds this generously sized, deeply attractive panel bracelet with its chunky blue plastic cabochons and great Southwestern design. $38.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




12. Sweet and feminine, with a gentle hue that plays surprisingly well with red, this lovely 1950s baby blue cardigan is just the lightweight topper to see you through the whole summer in great old school style. Fits up to a 40 inch waist/36 inch waist (at the bottom of the cardigan). $15.00 from Sanne's Vintage Jools.




13. Another delightfully pretty piece of mid-century costume jewelry that will serve you well for a myriad of different events across the calendar, from Independence Day to Christmas, this fun vintage red and white plastic beaded choker necklace will look so sweet with all kinds of vintage, pinup, rockabilly, and glam modern outfits. $16.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




14. Perfect for air conditioned indoor summertime events and cooler days throughout the rest of the year, these classy - and very classic looking - mid-century vintage red, white and blue kid leather gloves are a deeply lovely pair with so much appeal to them. Estimated to fit a modern size small - medium. $25.00 from Carla & Carla.




15. These c. 1980s does 1950s/60s style stunners are, hands down, bar none, one of the most breathtakingly gorgeous pairs of vintage earrings I've ever seen. With luminous AB stones (that call to mind the flashes of light produced by a 4th of July fireworks show), a chic dangle design, and generous size that makes them an instant statement piece, these vintage red rhinestones are truly knock-your-socks off amazing! $22.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




16.A timeless trio of seafaring and 4th of July worthy colours star in this beautiful 1950s navy blue wide brim straw hat. which includes a delightfully fun white hatband woven through red decorative loops. $46.00 from The Vintage Mistress.




17. Hunting for an absolutely elegant maxi skirt to wear to a wedding, garden party or other special event this summer? May I suggest this stunning c. 1970s periwinkle blue silk number that has such an awesome Edwardian revival quality to it. Fits up to a 30 inch waist/free hips. $45.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




18. If you happen to be one of those lucky ladies with very small feet and are presently looking for a seriously cool new pair of shoes for the summer months, may I recommend these darling 1940s/1950s cork and raffia wedges? Listed as being a US ladies size 5. $75.00 from Lucky Dry Goods.




19. Headed to the Jazz Age Lawn Party this summer or know a dapper chap who is? May I suggest this elegant and eye-catchingly attractive c. 1930s/1940s 10K gold filled Swank brand men's tie clip (which could, of course, be rocked by ladies as well) with its beautiful little blue cabochon ends. $25.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




20.The 4th of July's classic colour palette is rendered in gentle shades and teemed with cheerful green in this sweeter-than-sweet 1950s sundress that would be ideal for a summertime tea or garden party. Fits up to a 36 - 38 inch bust/28.5 cm waist. $114.00 from Archetype Vintage.




21. It's never too early to start planning your fall time outfits, especially when they involve beautiful vintage earrings like these glamorous mid-century vintage red leaf and aurora borealis charmers that can just as easily be worn at other times of the year - July 4th very much included - as well. $15.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




22.Equal parts patriotic and pretty, this fantastic c. 1930s/1940s molded plastic and reverse carved glass brooch would be an especially fitting 4th of July vintage jewelry choice for those who live in, or have family ties to, New York. $18.50 from Yesterday's Attic.




23. As serene as a summer's day spent at the beach, this wonderful c. 1930s/1940s graduated blue glass bead necklace is the sort of sophisticated vintage jewelry box staple that goes with a million and one outfits, no matter if it's January or July. $35.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.




24. So immensely sweet for the littlest holiday celebrators in your life, this darling vintage red, white and blue infant's dress is as home on July 4th as it at the beach all summer long. Listed as being suitable for a 12 month old child. $24.99 from Old Fashion Baby.




25. The 4th of July just wouldn't be the same without some eagle imagery, which speaks to the rich history of the nation's association with this majestic bird and the freedom it represents. Channel some of that same patriotism with you sport this beautiful little circa WW2 era rhinestone adorned eagle stick (or hat) pin at any time of the year. $14.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.



{To learn more about a specific item or image featured in today's post, please click on its photo or on the link in the text below to be taken to its respective source.}






No matter if your country is celebrating a birthday or other big event in the near future or not, there is an energetic giddiness to these first days of summertime that fills one's heart with joy, giving a much needed sense of promise and wonder alike to this hottest (in the Northern Hemisphere) chapter of the year and that alone is worth toasting with great enthusiasm.

I'll be doing just that in the coming weeks, as they lead into various family birthdays (including my own), Canada Day, July 4th, and many other great points that make the early days of summer to incredibly enjoyable.
 

Here's to an sun-kissed, carefree, beautiful season ahead for all of us - and the very happiest of July 4th wishes to all of my dear US friends and blog readers!





42 comments:

  1. I've found a lot of red, white and blue in vintage, through the years. It seems to be easy to find for me. But my favorite is my mom's cocktail ring. So fun to wear. :)

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    1. That sounds like such a special piece to have. I think that vintage and antique items that come down to us through our families are amongst, if not "the" most precious we can ever have the joy of owning.

      Big hugs & happy 4th of July wishes to you, dear Laurie!
      ♥ Jessica

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  2. All our gorgeous. Red white and blue is one of my favorite color combos and I have a lotof it in my wardrobe which is great because like you I adore festive dressing

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    1. It's one of my very favourites as well and I find that I tend to sport it most often during the summer and early fall months, but do love it equally the whole year 'through.

      Festive dressing for the win always! :)

      Many hugs & happy start of summer wishes, dear Kate!
      ♥ Jessica

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  3. All so beautiful, especially the gloves and bracelets, but the maxi skirt is gorgeous! I love maxi skirts! I know that it's worldwide spread, 4th of July, and there are huge parties and celebrations! The 1st of July is very important, I would like to know what you will do! As I studied at an American school, and later worked for one, I always celebrate the 4th of July! But later I moved to England and traditions like that and even Halloween were not so strong. Halloween has grown over the years, though :) Hugs and regards!
    DenisesPlanet.com

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    1. Thank you for asking about Canada Day, sweet Denise. It is celebrate from coast-to-coast in many different ways, but some key elements that unite many of the festive happenings on Canada's birthday include barbeques (and/or picnics), the wearing of red, white and maple themed clothing and accessories, beautiful fireworks shows (July 1st houses, for example, one of only two fireworks displays that happen each year here in our little town), spending time outdoors (camping optional), and gathering for festive (usually free) public events in local parks and/or beaches.

      It's really cool that you also enjoy celebrating the 4th of July, even though, like myself, you aren't an American.

      Many hugs & joyful start of summer wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  4. Of course red white and blue are Britain's colours too, I love this collection. My favourite is the Statue of Liberty brooch. It's a mini piece of vintage history and will look amazing on any outfit. So many lovely treasures here to lust after. Hope you are enjoying as good health as possible and wishing you much happiness xx

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    1. There are indeed and as a huge lifelong anglophile, that endears these classic, vibrant colours to me all the more. It's splendid that both of those mighty nations share the same hues - and that Canada can say as much for two of them (red and white) as well.

      Thank you sweetly, dear Emily. I really hope that you're doing positively this week, too, and that you're getting treated to far nicer weather than the rain that continues to grace us with its presence here more days than not (it's staggering just how many damp days we've had in the last two months).

      Oodles of hugs & happy start of summer wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  5. Oh that little girl's nautical dress! My eyes are the shape of hearts right now.

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    1. Same here! I think the vintage children's clothing is one of the cutest things on the face of the earth. I'm often tempted (but have't actually done so yet) to buy the occasional piece simply as the beautiful/adorable collectible that it is, even though I don't have any wee ones to dress in it.

      I hope that all is well on your end and that you're having a great week, my sweet friend.

      xoxo ♥ Jessica

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  6. Yummy stuff. We appreciate your interest in our country and I'm doing my best to reciprocate. I even read Canadian new websites now.

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    1. Three rousing cheers for a mutual interest in/passion for each of our respective nations, Ally. I greatly appreciate that you've long been reading my Canadian site, as well as those of various other canuck bloggers.

      Wishing you a fun filled, fabulous 4th of July celebration!

      ♥ Jessica

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  7. Omg, these pieces are so fun! My comedy account and I just shot our over-the-top parody photos for our 4th of July photo post (and have a video coming), so if you like that stuff (including parodies) it should be up your alley!!! That's fun you're into this even being a Canadian! XO
    Lauren-Blair
    www.prefertobedemure.com

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    1. That sounds awesome, Lauren. I'll definitely check out your latest video. Who doesn't love a spot of humour - especially in the midst of the heavy mood hanging over the world these days after the recent atrocities in the States.

      Big hugs & happy July 4th wishes!
      ♥ Jessica

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  8. Red, white and blue is probably my favourite colour combination - so much so that it's about to play a very important part in a very important event for me next year ;) I adore that little blue jacket - I've been looking for similar for a long time but they're never the right size :( it would go with so much! Pale blue is so versatile x

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    1. Ooohh, that is splendidly exciting! Red, white and blue always look breathtaking on you, dear CiCi, and are certainly a colour palette that I've come to associate with your (awesome) wardrobe. I eagerly look forward to hearing/seeing more about the roll that this classic combo will play in your big event next year.

      Many hugs & happy start of summer wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  9. 20 & 23! Swoon! So lovely!
    I rarely wear all three colours together, but I love seeing fluttering Union flag bunting which seems to be scattered about over here because of the Queen's 90th birthday xxx

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    1. How exciting that your country is decked out in patriotic colours at the moment, too - as well as that the Queen is celebrating her 90th. That is such a milestone birthday for anyone, be they monarch or not, to reach.

      Big hugs & many thanks for your lovely comment,
      ♥ Jessica

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  10. Hello Jessica, I understand your enthusiasm for the independence of the July 4th holiday, an anniversary is known all over the world, have it so close to be exciting! think, even to the American base at Camp Darby July 4th celebrate with fireworks ... even if they are not as beautiful as those of my city, June 16! I believe that the atmosphere of the Luminara di San Ranieri might like, it's so charming that enchants, is by far the most magical night in Italy!
    But we move on to serious matters ...
    This selection of clothes and accessories is amazing: red is one of my favorite colors, and the blue is almost the opposite ... the red is fire, blue sky .. two elements that, if well balanced , they are like nature itself: perfect! I love this blue necklace, it's so light and elegant, very nice as long pleated skirt, as well as red earrings .. Everything really on topic, but it turns out your good taste and your personality!

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    1. Hi Serena dear, thank you very much for your wonderful comment and for sharing some of the ways in which the 4th of July is observed in Italy, including at the local military base. It's marvelous that your town celebrates with festive fireworks in mid-June. I can just image how beautiful they must look as their flickering colours dance over your the age old buildings in your area.

      Wishing you a sunny, splendid summer that is filled with many more wonderful celebrations!

      xoxo ♥ Jessica

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  11. The baby blue cardigan was my fave !
    I have really fond memories of 4th of July :)

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    1. Isn't it a total charmer - and so very well priced, to boot.

      How cool that you've had a chance to experience the 4th of July in person. I bet it's a total blast (fireworks pun intended) that one doesn't soon forget. I really, really want to hop over the border one of these years and experience it in real life myself, too.

      Big hugs & joyful start of summer wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  12. fabulous finds my dear!!!
    the red/blue/white color combination is such a fresh and flattering one! i have to dig out some clothes in this hues for the next days :-)
    thanks for the inspiration! xxxxxxxx

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    1. Thank you sweetly, lovely Beate. It was a lot of fun rounding up these festively hued items and helping to my own (Canadian) part to celebrate such an important American occasion.

      Between Canada Day and 4th, plus the return of summer itself, I doubt I'll be sporting many other hues for the next little while and am pleased as punch about such. :)

      Many hugs & the happiest wishes for summer!
      ♥ Jessica

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  13. I love reading your enthusiasm for the 4th of July! It really makes me want to go out there and watch a parade and go to a fireworks show and of course in between have a good old fashion bbq! I don't know what we will be doing this year for the 4th. The 4th of July is my husband's favorite holiday so I always leave it to him to decide. Love looking through your picks! <3 Hope you have a great Canada day and a happy 4th! :D

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  14. So many wonderful vintage pieces!
    Thank you so much for sharing this amazing list.

    Many hugs,
    Sandra <3

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  15. Some really fabulous jewellery picks here, that seed bead plaited necklace is quite something. I'm very keen on the beaded cardigan too, I don't have one in my wardrobe and that needs to be remedied I think! The little bird hair clips are just so cute!

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    1. Thank you very much, my lovely friend. I seriously adore that plaited/woven seed bead necklace as well. It's a new edition to my shop and honestly one of my favourite necklaces I've ever listed there. The timeless design will ensure it works marvelously with a huge host of vintage and contemporary outfits, so I'd imagine that whoever snaps it up, will get a lot of use from it over the years.

      I have a couple of beaded cardigans, but not many (in part because vintage, and some modern, ones are so often made from lamb's wool, which I'm allergic to), and would absolutely love to add more - including a vibrant red one like this - to my closet as well. Fingers crossed we're both able to do so.

      Big hugs & nothing but the happiest wishes for a fabulous first weekend of summer!

      ♥ Jessica

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  16. Yeah, my most favourite colour combination, red, white and blue. I'm a complete sucker for anything nautical and I absolutely love those white leather gloves with the red, white and blue detailing xx

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    1. Nautical coloured and themed items really - *cough, cough* - float my boat as well! :D I was born a stone's throw from the Pacific ocean and have spent far near of my life near the water (be it ocean, river or lake) than not, which I believe has only served to heighten my passion for all things nautical. It's awesome that they really call to you as well, sweet Cate.

      Many hugs & joyful weekend wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  17. These are all such darling picks! And OH that child's dress! I am a sucker for anything I can dress Evie in, although she's surpassing 12 month sizes quickly and she's only 9 months old! That red sweater with the white beading is so, so pretty. I would love to have that in my closet year-round!

    xo
    Kristina
    www.eccentricowl.com

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    1. Isn't that sweater stunning? I love that, even with a vibrant colour palette, it would be a breeze to style all throughout the year. Plus, you can never go wrong with with mid-century beading. :)

      How lovely that you could picture your sweet little daughter in that dress. I'm sure she'd look cuter than a million buttons in it.

      Big hugs & happy first weekend of summer wishes!
      ♥ Jessica

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    1. Aww, why thank you, sweet Ruby. The colours are even more juicy and gorgeous in person. :)

      Big hugs & happy start of summer wishes!
      ♥ Jessica

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  19. What a beautiful list, and I got SO surprised when I saw one of my own listings! :) Thank you so much for featuring my cardigan, dear. I love the red cardigan (I am a cardigan addict, you know) and the white gloves with the small patriotic bows most. I adore the 4th July, since we don't have a national birthday celebration in Denmark. But we do share the same national colours (red and white), so we could unite on that. Have a lovely day, dear - and thanks again. :)

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    1. You're so very welcome, my sweet friend. It's a splendid, super well priced offering and felt so perfectly at home here.

      I'm very sorry to hear that you don't have a national birthday celebration in Denmark. Given what a storied and ancient nation you are, that's rather surprisingly. You'd think, at the very least, that a day could be designated to simply celebrate all that is awesome about your country and its history. I think that if I lived there, I'd be tempted try and start a campaign to have such established. Surely every nation needs its own special annual day!

      You can join in the spirit, if you like, of celebrating Canada Day with me and my fellow Canadians later this week. There will be fireworks, barbeques, lots of desserts featuring maple leaf shapes, red and white attire, and cheer as far as the eye can see.

      Many hugs & happy tail end of June wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

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  20. Thanks so much for the festive feature! So many items here I'm drooling over! Happy Canada Day and July 4th! Growing up we always visited our Canadian relatives on the long Independence day weekend- so this seemed fitting to me! Cheers!

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    1. You're sincerely welcome, dear Karen. Your shop teems with fabulous vintage and handmade items, and I so adore highlighting some of them here.

      That's really cool! I adore that you feel a connection with Canada Day. Objectively, I really don't think many Americas do, even though we as Canadians often feel such with the 4th of July, because it's such a part of mainstream culture.

      I hope that both days are splendidly fun and fabulous for you and your loved ones. Here's to a sunny, stellar summer from start to finish!

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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  21. Such lovely things Jessica. Nothing really beats red, white and blue. Many hugs, Ann xxx

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    1. Thank you very much, dear Ann. It really is a stellar classic that can work so nicely in a huge array of settings and types of outfits alike. I've worn red, white and blue here together numerous times over the years and am sure they'll appear as part of many more outfits that I share here as time goes on.

      Tons of hugs & my heartfelt thanks for all of your fantastic recent blog comments,

      ♥ Jessica

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  22. These are all perfect, I love the blue dress and red cardigan!
    xo
    www.laurajaneatelier.com

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    1. Thank you sweetly, lovely Laura. I'm head-over-heels for that gorgeous red cardigan, too. Were it not for the fact that I'm allergic to lamb's wool, there's a very good chance I would have snapped it up myself.

      I hope that all is well on your end this week and that you're having a sunny start of July.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

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