Decorating with Old Glory for the 4th of July

With things a bit busy around here I haven't even had a chance to share my 4th of July Porch.  I always feel a big gush of pride when I'm able to hang up my red, white and blue buntings.  It says summer's here and there's nothing else like the 4th of July anywhere else in the world!

I've pressured washed the porch and it's all fresh for summer.

My red rockers look like they were painted just for the celebration.  These have gone from natural to yellow, to black, to red.  I'm debating whether it's time for a change again.  I hope to get some #paint soon and get the porch brightened up.

 I did repaint a few pieces already, like this little side table.  I made this simple little flag pillow last year.  More about that in another post.

 My former neighbor gave me the cute little bench before moving earlier this year.  She told me sweet memories of her children play driving a car on it and then her grandchildren doing the same.  I sanded and painted it with plans to stencil a phrase across the back.  That will happen soon.  The tin buckets above were from the dollar store a couple of years ago and I just got those painted in time for the 4th.  Notice my little white star on the back of the bench.  It's a carpenters wooden folded measuring tape.  It folds into the perfect star.

I found both of these lanterns in two different thrift stores last year.  One was from Ikea and the other from Big Lots.  Identical - who knew.  A little paint and another patriotic item for my porch.

The pillow was a zero cost diy project.  I took some linen like fabric that I had on hand cut 2 squares to the size I wanted.  Painted them and stitched it together.  I'll have a post about both pillows up soon. If you can stitch a straight line you can make these pillows.

I love the candle light as the sun goes down.

Well that's my little spot of Americana.  I hope you enjoyed your visit and that you'll be back soon.  I'd love it if you'd leave a comment.  They make my day so much brighter.

Hugs Y'all...

Tracy 

Tuesday's Style After 30 - Get Your Red, White and Blue On

I kid you not, the 4th of July is just over a week away! Do you plan what you're going to wear or are you just a fly by your seat kinda gal?  

Well here's some Pinterest Red, White and Blue inspiration to get y'all started.  I adore this pretty patriotic frock!  I think there are so many different belt styles you could add to it.  Patent leather red or navy would be pretty.  Or what about a navy or natural rope belt with a nautical theme latch on the front.

Source: rstyle.me via Tracy on Pinterest

Here's another cute dress that looks so cool and summery.  Add a big blue beaded  necklace or earrings to set the 4th theme.  A belt would work with this one too.

Source: cosmopolitan.fr via Tracy on Pinterest

I'm in love with this blue blouse.  The drape is so pretty and would enhance any ones figure.  It looks like it might be a crepe de chine fabric.  With the heat that we have during this time of year I would pair it with white shorts instead, take away the shoes and bangles, and add a red bag.  As far as jewelry, I'd again look for a red bauble necklace or something with stars to complete the holiday theme. Some pretty sandals with a metal starfish design would be the perfect footwear.

Source: maggie-jackson-carvalho.polyvore.com via Tracy on Pinterest

Another top that that accentuates your waist and bust line.  You may want to avoid the flare if hips are an issue for you.  It seems to be my problem as of late (well it may be more of a derrière thing).  I adore the simple all American red plaid design on the fabric but with a twist.  It also looks like it's crepe de chine to me. Again I would go with shorts or capris, or for a dressier affair a white pencil skirt would be impressive.  Of course you know what I'm going to say next... Be sure to add that touch of blue, it is all about the day! I'd go with a nature straw bag.  Change the shoes to sandals or a simple heel if your wearing a skirt. 

Source: Uploaded by user via Tracy on Pinterest

Chambray is always in fashion and it's the official all American go to.  We American's love our denim. The bag is perfect but the shoes and earring have to go.  I'll let you have your way with those. My ideas would be seashells such as starfish again or possibly sand dollars or even a nautical look with an anchor or rope design.

Source: taraelliottchetty.polyvore.com via Tracy on Pinterest

I can't get away with the jacket here.  I mean when the fireworks are going off it's still in the 80's here.  But this would be great for any of you with cooler evenings. Love the snappy sandals.

Source: rae-ann-nolan.polyvore.com via Tracy on Pinterest

Okay before you think I've lost my mind and decide to tell me about it, yes I know it's not Memorial Day.  Just go with me people - we're looking for a red, white and blue theme.  This blouse is more in keeping with my weather.  It looks like it's effortless and comfortable to wear.  The blouse is loose and the shorts aren't too short.  If I was going to carry a clutch bag I would chose a woven natural linen or straw. Add blue using different jewelry, sandals or even a tie in your hair.

Source: handpickedinc.polyvore.com via Tracy on Pinterest

I'm not sure about the belt with this top at least not in Patent leather.  Maybe it's because the belt looks hiked up so high too.  I'm petite at 5'3, so I'd have to hem this. But this top certainly has drape and a pleasing look.  I love this style on someone like my mom who was 5'9" tall.  (My son's 6'2" and yes I've got height envy). The earrings are a little too orange. Pair this with grasshoppers or deck shoes instead. Let's switch the pants to capris or shorts and call it done.

Source: laura-snitcher-riel.polyvore.com via Tracy on Pinterest

Chambray with red and white plus a nautical theme.  Need I say more?  Well we will have to find a longer pair of shorts.

Source: polyvore.com via Tracy on Pinterest

This last outfit is all about the dress and belt.  Love them!!  The shoes are okay and I like the bag alot just not with this dress.  The bow and glasses must go unless you're dressing your 6 year old and then please don't give her these glasses.  Remember how I said a belt would go great with the first dress.  I didn't even realize it until now but this was totally the belt I was describing!  Serendipity!!

Source: Uploaded by user via Tracy on Pinterest

There you go with my picks for an All American Girl outfit.  If you put one together I'd love you to share so I can pin it.

By the way - Did you enter my Olay giveaway.  After all the sun you'll get on the 4th you'll be happy to win this!!  Just click HERE to enter or see the button on my sidebar.

Whatever you wear this 4th of July just make it fun and be safe.

Hugs Y'all...

Tracy ♥