LONG MAY THEY WAVE

Looking for clever variations on the classic red, white and blue / stars and stripes themes that are oh-so-apropos this week? These spirited pieces will add a touch of fireworks for the holiday -- and sparkle into summer.

Lafont’s “Belem” sunglasses, a quirky, retro round shape in a bold red, really stand out. So do Marc by Marc Jacobs’ red and blue open-toe star heels, which would look perfect with a solid white sundress or an all-American combo of a white T-shirt and jeans. For men, Duckie Brown’s American flag brogues for Florsheim are polished take on classic Americana that would shake up a staid suit or add some zip to otherwise boring basics.

If the weather makes the beach your destination on the Fourth, try nautical pieces that can play patriotic, such as a navy blue and white striped bikini from Charlotte Russe or navy blue and white striped shorts from J. Crew. For something more subtle, red, white and blue striped flip-flops from Old Navy will take you brightly down the boardwalk or around the pool.

At the high end, Cartier has several limited-edition pieces that pay homage to the U.S., celebrating the company’s 100 years in this country. The face of the popular Ballon Bleu watch has been engraved with an eagle and the Trinity earrings, bracelets and ring are each set with 100 diamond stars.

A more delicate constellation takes shape at Gorjana, which is making dainty gold star stud earrings and a gold wrap chain with star links that are versatile enough to wear with anything.

For the Fourth, any of these looks will happily say “America.” And afterward? They’ll simply say chic.

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