While the excitement of Independence Day often summons the use of red, white, and blue throughout many Americans’ wardrobes, I cordially invite you to choose something a bit subtler for this year’s festivities. Displaying your patriotism by sporting all three colors may have been cute when you were younger, but as someone of the college-age, I feel its time to set down the sparklers and step up your style! My advice is to simply choose one color out of the three and keep it fashionable, as this Fashionista has managed to do by pairing a white linen frock from J. Crew with metallic accessories, such as her studded, silver sandals and sequined Coach purse. After all, sparkles aren’t just for the fireworks! This flirty dress is perfect for the 4th because its simple cut creates room to accessorize while still offering enough detail at the bust to keep it feminine. I also love the above-the-knee length of this dress because it allows our Fashionista to easily transition from a walk down the beach to a more formal gathering later in the evening. All she would have to do is find a pair of nude wedges, maybe swap the sequin bag for a metallic belt, add a colorful clutch and she would be golden (well, metallic anyway). Another way to pull in the use of red, white or blue, without incorporating the colors into your actual clothing, is to choose a statement accessory, such as a bag. By wearing something you’re comfortable in, and using a red, white or blue bag, you can tone down the costume feel of your ensemble while still making Uncle Sam proud.