Red, white, and blue is the dress code on the Fourth, but there's a big difference between festive and full costume. The trick is to wear one or two of the colors in pieces that look great on their own. Here are the best 4th of July outfits for the beach, the backyard BBQ, the parade, and the fireworks.

The backyard BBQ: a statement top and denim shorts

Denim is your blue. Pair cutoffs with a red or white top and you're done. A ruffled red corset top looks dressy enough for photos; a white corset top with rhinestone denim shorts is a little more playful.

Red ruffle organza corset crop top for the 4th of July
Shop the Red Ruffle Organza Corset Crop Top

Distressed blue denim shorts
Shop the Distressed Blue Denim Shorts

White corset crop top
Shop the She's So Fierce White Corset Crop Top

Rhinestone jewel denim shorts
Shop the Rhinestone Jewel Denim Shorts

The parade or a day out: an all-blue one-piece

A denim romper or a blue jumpsuit is a one-piece way to wear the theme. Add a red lip or white sneakers and it reads festive without trying too hard.

Blue denim bow romper
Shop the Serina Bow Blue Denim Romper

Blue tube top jumpsuit
Shop the Epic Athletica Blue Tube Top Jumpsuit

The beach or lake: red or white swim

A red bikini is the most patriotic swimsuit there is. White is a fresh alternative, and both look great with denim shorts thrown on for lunch.

Red tie-waist two-piece bikini
Shop the Red Tie-Waist Two-Piece Bikini

White halter two-piece bikini
Shop the Harper White Halter Bikini

See all styles in Swimwear and Plus Size Swimwear.

Fireworks night: add a layer

Evenings can cool off by the water. Throw a denim jacket over your BBQ outfit and switch to sneakers for the walk to the viewing spot.

Boyfriend denim jacket
Shop the 90s Boyfriend Denim Jacket

4th of July outfits for men

A red tee with jeans or denim shorts is the easiest men's look. Add swim trunks from Men's Swimwear for the beach.

Men's red graphic t-shirt
Shop the Men's Born With A Silver Spoon Red T-Shirt

How to wear red, white, and blue

Approach Example Vibe
One color All-blue denim romper Subtle and chic
Two colors Red top + denim shorts Classic and easy
All three White top, denim shorts, red lip or bag Festive, not costume

Styling tips for every body type

  • Plus-size: a one-piece romper or jumpsuit creates a long line; a structured corset top defines the waist.
  • Petite: high-waisted shorts and crop tops lengthen your legs.
  • Let denim be your blue so you only need one other color.
  • Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a layer for after dark.

Shop more summer pieces in Denim and Vacation & Resort Wear.

— EpicPlacess