This Independence Day we're celebrating classic American fashion with our writers' favorite icons, designers and raw materials
THE ATTITUDE: FREEDOM OF IDENTITY
Thoughts of classic Americana style spark images of red, white and blue, Tommy Hilfiger, 4th of July fireworks and happy-go-lucky families; but digging below the façade unveils an element of Americana that transcends this bucolic vision.
It's all about the attitude: Rebellious and confident.
The nation was founded by rebels seeking religious freedom; the West was won by rogue cowboys; and high school girls swooned after boys on motorcycles. True American fashion is a living embodiment of the rebel that quietly resides in us all. At Burberry Prorsum's Fall 2010 show, model Abby Lee Kershaw sauntered down the runway in a nebulous cloud of attitude; wearing leather boots over leggings and a classic navy pea coat, Kershaw slung her clutch with the irreverence of a six-gun shooter holding a pistol. She embodies the girl who dresses for herself and does things her way. And that is the all-American attitude.
-kari skaflen
THE DESIGNER & BRAND: RALPH LAUREN
Much like the conditioned response of Pavlov’s dogs, the mere presence of a strategically-sewn, polo-playing emblem can make us salivate for a dose of Americana. As one of the most recognizable logos in the world, Ralph Lauren’s pony represents the influential man – and his brand – responsible for molding the very definition of style in American.
The RL look relies on a timeless image of sophistication, good taste, and high quality; renowned for cotton-mesh polo shirts, expertly-tailored oxford button-downs, and preppy-casual chinos for any shape, size and taste.
Ralph Lauren captures our hearts (and much of our closets) for more than the classic, tangible pieces: he presents a story of the ideal American lifestyle through his work; and for the first time, gives us the key to belong with just a quick flash of that infamous pony.
-kimberly saper
THE MODERN DAY ICON: MICHELLE "O"BAMA
Not since Jackie Kennedy Onassis, in her Halston pillbox hat and classic Oleg Cassini A-line silhouette, has the First Lady represented the style of the American women better than Michelle Obama. Mrs. Obama has broken away from the predictable Washing D.C. ensemble of rigid skirts, pantsuits, and the de rigueur Oscar De La Renta.
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Michelle Obama is the epitome of all-American style; full of grace and elegance, yet maintains the fun in fashion. As Karl Lagerfeld summed it up to Vogue at the Met Gala celebrating the American Woman, "Oprah and Mrs. Obama are really the American women… At least that is the way Europe sees it." The First Lady is not only recognized nationally; she is an icon across the globe representing the style of the American woman.
-samm mackin
THE POP CULTURE ICON: KATY PERRY
An irreverent and carefree spirit with a seditious attitude to boot, the 25-year-old Katy Perry is known to boast the Americana attitude loud and proud. With her style directed by self-approval only, Perry’s confident presence makes every look utterly fabulous (even if slightly OTT).
Despite her critics, does she care? Hell no! We love her recent American Flag/Union Jack dress honoring the World Cup (apparently she's divided on which footie team to support). It’s just another style statement we’ve come to expect. Perry’s quirky, pin-up girl looks combined with her catchy, feel-good music make this modern-day icon irresistible.
-lizzie barron
THE CLOTHES: DENIM, DENIM, AND MORE DENIM
From Levi Strauss to Ralph Lauren, denim has been an American classic for more than a century. While the fit and wash constantly evolves, this look has proven it’s here to stay. With styles ranging from bootcut jeans and button-down shirts, to Daisy Dukes and jackets, a type of denim appears in every American wardrobe.
In the summer, we love sporting a denim jacket with a pair of shorts, over a sundress, or even with jeans for the trendy denim-on-denim look. Mixed-weight fabrics, mismatched hues, and a few colorful accessories are all you need to pull off the head-to-toe look.
We’re loving 7 for All Mankind’s Tomboy Jean Jacket.
- kim farrington
THE LOOK: SHADES OF SUMMER
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The sun-kissed look of all-American summer beauty is as glamorous as it is natural. American women blend and brush their bronzer until any trace of makeup goes undetected; as if perfectly-luminescent skin naturally radiates from their pores.
From one year to the next, flawless, bronze-toned skin returns as the style-du-jour for American women. The sunlight-inspired look preferred for summer celebrations radiates Americana – natural, incandescent, effortless style.
-emily gray
