When this July 4th dress from Jude Connally arrived, I knew it was just right for the July 4 before I even tried it on. The pattern is oars… red, white, and navy and it reads patriotic without a single star or stripe on it! You get the holiday without looking like you’re wearing a flag.

The fit is the real story. It’s crisp cotton, so the bodice holds its shape and the tiered skirt has that full, swingy movement when you walk. The sleeveless v-neck keeps it cool for a July afternoon, and the waist is fitted without being tight. It’s really the perfect summer dress!

I styled it with raffia platform sandals from Larroude to keep the line long and give me some height, but it would also be amazing with flats. The whole look is casual…accessorized with a raffia bucket hat, and a navy and light blue woven tote from Veronica Beard that picks up the navy in the dress. I layered on the bracelets and kept the necklace simple. This look is easy enough for a cookout, but polished enough if you’re hosting.

It’s the kind of dress you reach for all summer, not just one weekend.

I’m including a boutique below that contains everything from this post, a few other fabulous dresses from Jude Connally and also a few things from the ShopBop Sale that’s going on until June 26! The ShopBop sale is 25% off so many great items…including this raffia hat! This sale is not to be missed!

However you spend the Fourth… a backyard cookout, fireworks from a lawn chair, or just a slow morning with coffee and the flag out front… there’s no reason not to do it in something you feel good in. A great dress doesn’t ask for an occasion, it makes one. You may also enjoy this post for another July 4th outfit idea.

It’s such a beautiful day here in North Carolina…the kind of day you want to spend outside and never come in!

Thanks so much for reading today!

~XOXO Suzanne