In light of recent national events, one might ask, “Why should I spend time reading about fashion when there are more important articles to which I should be paying attention?” Here is what I am going to do: I am making this week”s column a “how to” for dressing patriotically.
- Paul Wong
- Julia Stiles shows off her stars and stripes on a fashionable shirt.<br><br>Courtesy of MTV
Flags have been sold-out at stores across the nation, pins are even scarcer, and an American flag bandana is probably the rarest of items. So if you want to show your nationalism, your love for the U. S. of A., be creative.
You already have the foundation for your red, white, and blue ensemble: blue jeans are the staple of an All-American wardrobe. Use them as your building block and go from there. As a student at the University of Michigan, you have no excuse for not having a blue t-shirt. Wear white socks and you are almost done. For your splash of red, you may have to dig a little deeper. Maybe you can find a red bandana, possibly opt for rouge socks rather than white, or perhaps paint your fingernails red.
For those of us who put extensive thought into each day”s attire, (who”s really going to admit to planning their outfits the night before?), consider this a chance for an art project. Remember when you were ten and you got to tie-dye anything and everything at overnight camp?
You can once again utilize those creative juices. If you can”t find an American theme tee to decorate, then start with a plain white t-shirt or tank top.
Maybe use an iron-on of the American flag for a background picture. Then go nuts with the craft supplies. Add a slogan with a red or blue permanent marker: “Don”t mess with the US” or “Team USA”. Decorate the letters with glitter or rhinestones.
If you really want to make a statement, go as far as using puffy-paint! Along with your spirited shirt, look for a pair of jeans that you can decorate to match. Or maybe create a belt out of red and blue bandanas to wear with your favorite pants.
Cut the necks, cut the sleeves, make tanks, make tees. Whatever you do, make it red, white, and blue! No one will question your motivation on this anything-goes project and along the way you”re showing everyone your support for the “land of the free and the home of the brave.”