She's a Grand Old Flag

Stars and Stripes Forever!

Okay . . . CC was going to wait until Independence Day for the red, white & blue post, but then she figured: what if all her lovely readers have some shopping to do for next weekend's fireworks and festivities? So get ready to hoist up the flag (or, wear its signature colors)!

As was noted in an article entitled “The Betsy Ross Label” in last week's Thursday Styles : , the spring/summer and resort collections, both in New York and abroad, were heavily reliant upon red, white and blue. See the runway photos below from, inter alia, Charles Nolan, Chanel, Miu Miu (pictured at top left), Lacoste, Blugirl, Moschino, and Moschino. Read the article at http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/26/fashion/26ROW.html?_r=1&ref=fashion&oref

The Runway Gets Patriotic:

Charles Nolan; photo at upper right courtesy nytimes.com

Left: Trend Les Copains

Lacoste nautical striped tank and red & white beach bag
Agnes B Resort 2009 striped pants and toppers

Bill Blass Resort 2009

Moschino Cheap & Chic Spring 2008
Chanel Spring/Summer 2008

Blugirl (CC just adores this poufy blouse and vest combo, the chunky bangles, the oversize bag, etc.)

Next, a sweet dose of street style from fellow fashionista and blogger extraordinaire, Ida! Visit http://rougemarie.blogspot.com/

And now, your shopping directory, from the sublime to the ridiculous:

D&G grosgrain ribbon trim jacquard jacket. Purchase at eLuxury.com.

Brooks Brothers cuff links. Go to brooksbrothers.com

Topshop stripe anchor thong. Go to topshop.com

D&G strapless belted dress with pleated skirt, also at eLuxury

Angela Moore stars and stripes bracelet. Visit angelamoore.com
Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Agriculture dress, at Net-a-Porter.com

It is clear that these are not simply "American" or "patriotic" looks, since designers worldwide are showing them, and fashionistas are loving them. So what do you think, my lovelies? Which piece or ensemble are you craving? Is the red, white & blue trend just for summer or all-year-round?

Fashion Credits: Photos in this post courtesy nymag.com, except where otherwise noted. Flag ribbon candy at right, go to hammondscandies.com.
Extra Credit: If you're interested in flag trivia and etiquette, see http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.3a0656639de62ad593598e10d373a0a0