Stripe Salute

I'm always inspired when I look at the American Flag. This Independence Day I want to celebrate Old Glory by helping you work the stripes. No matter where you shop this 4th of July, you're bound to find some striped fashion pieces that will work for you. I found these assorted striped ensembles at Forever 21, Gap, and JC Penney. Now, don't worry, you stripe haters, I haven't lost my fashion sense. There are all kinds of stripes that can work for your body type...yes, yours! I hear from so many of you, that wearing stripes makes you look heavier, but just like body types, stripes also come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. From thick to thin and everything in between. So if you're feeling self-conscious, you can still get away with the stripes, just mix and match them with a little denim jacket or a blazer. This gives the stripes a little twist. If you feel the stripes still aren't working for you, you can stripe it up through your accessories. Here's a great blue and white striped printed canvas shopper handbag from DKNY and a red and white striped Juicy Couture woven hat from Nordstrom. These amazing accessories can give you that festive look. You can spice up a plain white t-shirt or tank top with a striped accessory to add a little patriotic flair.

You know me by now. I just can't get enough of the accessories...so don't let the fireworks be the only things sparkling this 4th. Add some bling to your body. How about a couple of Kate Spade rings? Be the belle of the ball with this crystal ring or let your friends decide which sparkles more...the fireworks or this mushroom ring. If the ring is not yo' thing, try sending a flare of your own into the midnight sky with this Juicy Couture midnight swag stone pyramid cuff bracelet. You can find these awe-inspiring little fashion fireworks at Nordstrom.

Since your clothes will be giving off so much heat, cool down with some H2o. The health-conscious fashionista will already be drinking the recommended 8 or 9 cups of water every day. Now, every diva's different. Some of us are more active than others. Either way, water is a must. Water makes up 60% of your body weight. It flushes toxins out of vital organs and provides a healthy environment for the ears, nose, and throat.

You lose water every day through breathing, perspiration, urine and ah-hem...number 2. You know what I'm talking about. So it's crucial that you replenish the agua. Do it with style.
Here are some star ice cubes from www.icecubetray.net you can use during your 4th of July celebration to wow your guests.

You can also blow them away by dropping some raspberries or blueberries into your ice cube tray. This way, you and your guests can stay hydrated with style, and still show your Independent streak as you celebrate the red, white, and blue this 4th of July.

And don't forget, with Palette 2 Palate, color is in all year 'round!