The history and evolution of American Flag fashion
The symbolism of American flag clothing
Brands that made American flag clothing widespread
Fashionable and wallet–friendly American flag clothing dupes
To Americans, the American flag is more than three colors printed onto cloth in various designs. The flag has become a symbol of freedom and unity, and today, has even evolved to become a vibrant fashion statement. Over the years, the stars and stripes of our flag have found their way into various forms of clothing, becoming a trend which celebrates patriotism fashionably!
Now, we don’t need to show pride through our nation from just placing a flag on our front lawn, but stylishly flaunting it through chic clothing accessories!
Summary:
How Our Nation's Symbol Became a Fashion Statement
Today, the American flag spells out much more than the emblem of freedom and unity; it has evolved into a bubbly fashion accessory. For years now, stars and stripes have shown up on all forms of attire and have become quite a stylish expression of patriotism. How the American flag made its foray into apparel from its historic influences,to modern-day style statements, will recount its ever-lasting impressions.
The Historical Roots of Flag Fashion
Integration of the American flag into clothing dates back far into history. During the American Civil War and both World Wars, patriotic sentiment rallied powerfully to the waving flag; soldiers sported the flag on their uniforms, and the women with their loved ones in the military proudly wore American flag ribbons. These early uses of the flag in attire were powerful expressions of national pride and unity.
After the Civil War, which sealed the United States as one nation and a political entity, showing the flag in one's yard became more often practiced. This more common display of the American flag manifested pride in being united as one nation.
Although it did not instantly become some huge clothing item for wear, it started to be put on beer bottles and cans of soup for political ads. Improvements in printing technology made these uses more extensive and also created more accessibility.
But since this is a fashion article, not a history lesson, let's jump ahead to the key points!
Since the American flag is associated with major conflicts, events like these have influenced the rise of patriotic clothing. During the World War’s, for example, it became a trend for patriots to wear an American flag pin to show support for the government. This slowly but surely began the trend of the American flag as a fashion accessory!
A very chic vintage 1970s flag emblem pin. Image courtesy: Etsy.
Since 2001, after the tragedy of 9/11, many stars have shown their support for America by including the flag off their garments. On September 14th, just a few days subsequent to this tragedy, Madonna showed her solidarity and love for this land by wearing a skirt with an American flag on it while on tour.
In these images, Madonna poignantly and beautifully showed her support for America by donning the American flag as a pleated skirt.
American Flag Clothing and Symbolism
It's more than a fashion statement when someone wears the United States flag; it is a statement of values. The flag represents freedom, justices, and largely, the national heritage of the United States of America. In relation to incorporating it into clothing, this only provides the opportunity for a person to express his or her patriotism and connection with these principles in a clear, fashionable way. As American flag clothing became popular after major conflicts, it was meant to show that everyone–not only soldiers–proudly portrayed that the nation was still standing strong in the face of calamity.
Brands That Made American Flag Attire Popular
The American flag has found itself with a number of fashion brands that have used it in their designs and popularized patriotic fashion. Among these include:
Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren is quite popular for the ultimate classic and timeless American look. This style house has, over the years, created many developed lines based on the American flag. Its Polo line tends to have a lot of items with stars and stripes, all to give the feel of being urbane yet in a very patriotic (and stylish!) way. In fact, the American flag emblem has become so iconic that they have an entire line named after it!
The Ralph Lauren sweater collection-aptly named the “Iconic Flag Sweater”!
Tommy Hilfiger is another icon of a brand that doesn't have shy away from using the American flag as a central element in its design; it's known for its preppy all-American look and predominantly uses red, white, and blue—very often incorporating the motif from them.
Old Navy has made American flag fashion popular accessible to everyone of any age and gender with their adorable accessories!
This cutie rocks an Old Navy American flag inspired Old Navy romper! Photo credits: Old Navy.
These adorable items are perfect for families to share in patriotic fashion! Image courtesy of Old Navy.
Flag Clothing Options That Won't Drain Your Wallet
Fashionable Dupes!
Looking at this patriotic fashion could be prestigious or pricey, but several wallet-friendly options can still capture the essence of the designer American flag attire. This way, you can proudly wear the flag without breaking your bank account–after all, the flag is for everyone!
Amazon Dupes
Amazon has so many affordable dupes that are similar to the high-end brands like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger.
Take this stylish polo which perfectly portrays the American flag–and only for $29.99!
A stylish and patriotic Polo perfect for July 4th or an everyday outing! Image courtesy of Amazon.
Why should the men get all the American flag clothing!?
This American flag dress from Amazon is so chic and patriotic–and with around 500 reviews to attest to its quality! How can you go wrong with that!?
This chic dress is perfect for rocking those stars and stripes anyday! Image courtesy to Amazon.
Shein
Shein comes up with a big collection of American flag clothing, trendy and at affordable rates, so that you can rock your patriotism.
How can anyone go wrong with this chic patriotic sweater, which is perfect for casual or July 4th, and barely leaves a dent in your wallet for $17.99–compared to Ralph Lauren’s $400!
A very fashionable (but wallet–friendly!) American flag sweater! Image Courtesy of Shein.
Temu
You can’t go wrong with Temu–adorable and affordable! Their items are absolutely perfect if you are on a budget, so that you can proudly–and stylishly– flaunt the flag at an ideal price.
They also have a large range of items so that you can choose exactly how to accessorize your closet!
Lovely American flag decorated shorts–perfect for a summer’s day! Image courtesy of Temu.
How can one say no to this oh so sparkly American flag top!? Image courtesy to Temu.
The upsurge of American flag attire proves that patriotism in style is never dead. Since its historical originality, the American flag has been one of the most fashionable trendsetters of nationalism up to this modern age of its trend. From luxurious brands such as Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger to more affordable options like Amazon and Shein, the stars and stripes sail on in many hearts and outfits of spirited fashionistas!
