This Fourth of July, I don't want to go the typical red, white and blue route. But I still want to show my patriotism. What starry or striped fashion do you recommend I wear? Any other suggestions?
—Betsy R., Wittenberg, Wis.

Don't limit yourself just because you don't want to look like a flag. I found some cute star jewelry at Intuition. But if I were you, I'd broaden my horizons.

Whip out that bright-red bakelite bangle your mother-in-law gave you; it'll look equal parts femme-tastic and all-out dynamite with a white summer sundress, for example. Or pair the red bangle with a blue one and throw on your favorite pair of jeans and a loose, billowy top before heading out to a family barbecue. The idea is subtlety: patriotic-minded fashionistas will get what you're up to; the rest of the world will just think you look nice.

Personally, if I'm headed to an Independence Day celebration that doesn't involve tussling with grass, I'll don my favorite pair of platform cherry-red peep-toe pumps along with a dark-wash trouser jean. Or forget the peep-toes and consider this amazing pair of straight-up red pumps from BCBG. If you dare, pair them with this seriously hot tie-dyed-looking blue dress from Forever 21. No white shirt—that would be overkill—but a cute tee with a vintage Americana theme works perfectly. You can go overt or subtle, given the dizzying number of tees that are out there.

If you still insist on stripes, no worries. Your best bet for striped shoes comes in the espadrille department. I also found a bracelet that gives the subtle effect of red and white stripes without looking tacky. Pair it with just about anything, stroll out into the all-American night, and behold while you create your very own fireworks.

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