Vintage Fourth of July Inspiration

Today's we get a spoonful of patriotic inspiration from Emileigh of Flashback Summer. Emileigh is a darling gal with a passion for vintage, sewing, and knitting. She fits right in here! 

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Hello friends!

The 4th of July is one of my favorite holidays in the year, the day America celebrates its independence. (It’s also the only time Americans say the day before the month, anyone ever noticed that?) Although some Americans may get a little "big for their britches" about our country, I think it's a great thing for people to love their nation, no matter which one it is.

I realized what a blessing it is to live in America when I lived overseas. We Americans tend to have a lot of hope. Hope that things will get better, hope that we can make a difference, hope that our voice will be heard, hope that we can make something of ourselves. This hope is not inherently present in every nation or culture; it is something that must be cultivated. We are blessed in America to have such hope and to celebrate it on the 4th of July!

You know another great part of the 4th of July? The patriotic outfits and movie scenes! Who doesn't love a glittery Uncle Sam hat, some star-studded pants and a flag dress being tap-danced across the stage? There are lots of examples of these from the vintage stage and real life, especially. I've chosen some of my favorites to share with you, along with my own 4th of July-inspired look at the end!

James Cagney in “Yankee Doodle Boy”

This is arguably the best patriotic movie. It has a whole movie centered around the "Yankee Doodle Boy" and his journey to the American dream. A definite holiday classic, and check out those gorgeous outfits the ladies have on!

Anne Rutherford as a Patriotic Majorette

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1940s Patriotic Allies Dresses

What can be classier for a day dress than to have a flag incorporated into its very design?! Pretty much nothing.

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1880s Patriotic Gown

Made right around the centennial of the Constitution, this dress says “America” in a gorgeous way. I really hope someone got to wear this for an Independence Day parade!

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Fred Astaire in “Holiday Inn”

Saved the best for last! It’s FRED ASTAIRE in starred socks dancing with firecrackers. ‘Merica. ‘Nuff said.

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And now, for my Independence Day-Inspired Outfit!

1940s hat: gifted

1940s belt: flea market

Bakelite and bangles: gifted

Red peep-toe shoes: Payless

1940s dress: Ruth’s Vintage Clothing (St. Louis, MO)

Thank you, Emileigh! And Happy Fourth to all of you here in the states! 

If you're interested in seeing more movie magic inspiration, paired with sewing patterns to make your own, you should also take a gander at my series from last year, Sewing Hollywood History.