Every year while everyone is celebrating the red white and blue of our country’s independence, I am also celebrating becoming another year older (well, almost… July 5th baby). I’m not going to lie, it’s pretty cool getting fireworks relatively close to your birthday, and on top of that I never have to worry about whether or not people are going to be out celebrating.
Since I am insistently studying for boards this year, I decided to save some time and just celebrate my birthday a day early (that’s totally allowed, right?!) by having a Fourth of July beach BBQ with friends. Since my birthday is one of my favorite things, I saved a bunch of my favorite summer items specifically for this day so I could show them off, and share them with you! Like I said in my about me, I’m no fashionista and don’t have a ‘like to know it’ account, but I will definitely show you where to get these items (and similar ones) so you’ll be able to flaunt them all summer too.
Let’s start off with this bathing suit. HFS I am beyond obsessed with it; But not just THIS bathing suit, every single one from Montce Swim (and no, this is #notanad). Literally my entire bathing suit drawer is from them. Soo back to this particular suit… I was looking for something somewhat retro but still modern and had been eyeing their Gingham Cabana Top and High Rise Bottom for some time. I finally pulled the trigger and got it for myself as an early b-day gift and I’m so glad I did.
The bottom is high wasted but can be folded over if you want a lower tan line and the adorable straps can be removed if you’re going for that strapless look. Don’t be surprised if this is the only bathing suit I wear for the remainder of the year. That being said, I can’t say that they are necessarily the most affordable, but they fit amazing and the styles are all awesome. If you keep an eye out and sign up for their emails, they do go on sale a few times a year (and you can get 10% off just for signing up).
Next, let’s talk accessories. This adorable cover up from Echo Design is my absolute favorite right now. It’s simple (which I love) but really great quality. In addition, it gives you the option of leaving it open or tying the front (so I can close it up if I’m going into a restaurant or beach bar). It also comes in a few different colors and isn’t too pricey. While we are on the subject of great things that aren’t pricey, I have also discovered the best sunglasses.
I briefly mentioned these to you guys in one of my previous Instagram posts, but I just got my second pair of Diff Eyewear sunglasses and I’m crushing hard. These Becky’s are their brand new style and fit perfectly with the modern retro look I’m going for this Fourth of July. Side note: for every pair of sunglasses purchased, Diff donates a pair of reading glasses to someone in need, which is pretty great. Check them out to see all the cool styles and colors of sunnies they make, and use ERICADIFF to get 25% off if you want a pair (or two) for yourself.
As far as final accessories go, everyone knows the bag and shoes can make or break your outfit. I’m really liking these new sandals I found from Steve Madden. They’re the Rozie Sandals in cognac and they have a really cute gold accent along the front to make them slightly fancier than your average sandal; and the best part? They’re on sale (seriously, who doesn’t love a good sale item?). Orrr you can get my other favorite pair of sandals (Sorry, these aren’t on sale, but they’re totally worth checking out).
This Tory Burch canvas tote has also been my go to beach bag for as long as I can remember. It was a gift forever ago and I refuse to replace it. I did however just make this cute tassel pom-pom charm to accessorize it with (DIY post coming soon? Or you can purchase a similar one here); I think it really makes the bag much more trendy and fun. There are plenty of other beach bags I found that are super cute if you want something fun and budget friendly. (especially this one).
Lastly, I wanted to talk about something else that my friends just introduced me to and OMG is it a game changer. Did you guys know you could literally get money back on things that you buy for NO REASON AT ALL?! So if you’re late to the party like me, it’s called Ebates, and it’s literally a website that you sign up for and get a certain percentage back on things you buy, from websites that you already shop at. If only I had known about this years ago I would have saved a ton of money by now. If you want to sign up just to check it out (it’s free) use my referral link, and if you spend $25 we will both be rewarded. Sounds like a win-win to me, unless you hate earning cash back and saving money while you pay for things you were going to buy anyway, then definitely don’t sign up.
Now that I have shared my favorite summer fashion items with you guys, and my new-found secret to saving money while you shop, I just wanted to say I hope you all have an amazing Fourth of July! Don’t forget to use sunscreen (at least an SPF of 30) and to reapply every 2 hours! Also, please stay away from fireworks… we don’t want you to spend your holiday in the emergency room.
XoXo -Erica
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