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!
