Patriotic hands over the heart as the ‘Star Spangled Banner’ plays, fireworks lighting up the night sky, stars, stripes, banners, parades and partying are all part and parcel of 4th July celebrations. Being a part of these celebrations is a must for patriotic Americans. From street parades to private functions, the young, old and in-between will no doubt be giving a great deal of thought to July 4th costume ideas. For those who are a little overwhelmed trying to make a decision on how they will dress for the celebrations, this article is for you.
Uncle Sam:
Dress as the national personification of the United States. Dress as an elderly white haired man with white goatee beard. Don a top hat covered with red and white striped material, add a blue band, then put on a pair of red and white striped trousers. Slip on a pair of black shoes or white trainers, add a loose red bow tie and the look will be perfect. This is the best outfit a true patriotic American could wear. Rent a costume if you don’t wish to go to too much trouble.
The statue of liberty:
All women would give their eye teeth to dress as the beautiful Statue Of Liberty. One of the most recognized symbols of American freedom. Also representing justice, liberty and the friendship of foreign nations, who also believe in freedom and fair treatment for one and all. Simply drape yourself in a free flowing white or gold one shouldered dress, add a make-shift crown with long taped points and a torch made from gold cardboard. Add a pair of sandals.
George Washington:
Men can don the clothes of George Washington, the father of America. Hire or make a tri-corn hat, add a navy blue uniform, shiny black boots, epaulets, a sword at the hip and a white or grey wig. Or.. dress in cream coloured jodhpurs with a loose matching buttoned shirrt over the top. Now slip into a black or navy blue jacket with gold or silver epaulets( these can be made from tinfoil) add to this long black riding boots. The wig can easily be made from wool.
Betsy Ross:
Dress as Betsy Ross who was an American seamstress and upholsterer who is credited to have made the very first American flag. White chmaber maid hat, red and white colonial style dress, add a blue apron with white stars and you’ll certainly look the part. Slip into a white or red pair of flat shoes and it will look as if a ghost from the past has appeared to join in the celebrations.
Paul Revere:
Perhaps the young lad wishes to dress up as Paul Revere. Paul Revere was an American Silversmith and patriot in the American Revolution. He is well remembered for his historic midnight ride which warned colonists of the impending British army attack. Step back into history, dress in a loose long sleeved white or cream shirt with spread collar or a shirt which is collarless. The bigger and looser the shirt the better. If possible choose a button down shirt. Now if you do wear a collared shirt, leave the collar point buttons undone. Pull on a pair of solid trousers, any type except for jeans or nylon fabric pants. Calico pants do well. Roll these up to the knees. Try rolling the pants up in the inside. Pin them up if this is difficult.
Slip into any non- descript brown or black shoes, now add long socks which stretch right over the knees. Dress the shoes up with large buckles or make your own with tinfoil. Add a waistcoat/old vest which covers the hips but isn’t too baggy. Make a tri-corn hat from a large piece of black or brown felt. Wear a large straw hat if nothing else is available. Make some points of the same size and pin or sew these to the crown. Add an old black or brown coat if you wish, but ensure this isn’t too loose. Drape an old white handkerchief or cravat around the neck, tuck this inside the collar and shirt. As you can see, with just a little imagination you can be the one wearing the most patriotic outfit at any 4th July celebration. Have fun and keep in American!