Independence Day Beauty Inspo

Well ladies, the 4th of July is almost here and let me tell you, I couldn't be more excited. I love the 4th for all the normal reasons: cookouts with friends and family, fireworks, cold beers, and 'Murica. But I also really love that Independence Day is the summer holiday that invites cute beauty trends that can be little more casual and fun than your typical June wedding looks. Keep reading to get inspired by some of my favorite patriotic beauty tricks and styles. 1) Braids: I think you all know by now that I LUVV braids-- especially for summertime. And a braided up-do is perfect for your outdoor 4th of July plans. For beginner braiders: Try a soft side braid. [caption id="attachment_12376" align="aligncenter" width="700"] photo via getty images[/caption]   Tease the hair around the crown of your head with a little volume powder or dry shampoo, then pull your hair around and loosely braid. Secure with a clear elastic and then pull out each section of the braid to give it some texture and fullness. For braid pros: The reverse corn-row. [caption id="attachment_12377" align="aligncenter" width="700"] photo via allure.com[/caption]   I've been obsessing over these photos since they surfaced from Coachella. From what I can tell, it's actually easier to accomplish than it initially looks! Try out the tutorial here, and if you do wear this braid/mini-bun on the 4th, you'd better Instagram it and tag us @hello_luvvy! 2) Nails: Jazzing up your mani is the easiest way to bring some sparkle to your 4th of July beauty routine. And there's something to be said for a stylized take on the grand ol' flag. I am luvving all three of these patriotic manicures: [caption id="attachment_12379" align="aligncenter" width="700"] full tutorial at Mandy's Secrets[/caption] [caption id="attachment_12380" align="aligncenter" width="700"] full tutorial at My Latest Obsession[/caption] [caption id="attachment_12381" align="aligncenter" width="700"] full tutorial at Pretty Prudent[/caption] 3) Red lips: Just because it's summer doesn't mean you have to stow away your favorite lip shade. Red is always a go-to, and seems more than appropriate for Independence Day! Below are a couple of MAC lipsticks that are both excellent reds for July; see also the more wallet-friendly drugstore reds that rock equally as hard. [caption id="attachment_12383" align="aligncenter" width="700"] MAC lipstick in MAC Red and Brave Red[/caption] [caption id="attachment_12384" align="aligncenter" width="700"] maybelline colorsensation vivids in Neon Red; covergirl lipperfection in Ruby Twist[/caption]

Independence Day (and really, summer in general) is a great time to play with your beauty routine. It think by July, it can sometimes seem like too much effort to even paint my nails at all, let alone create cute themed designs on them. So taking a little time to dress up for the summer holidays can be a welcomed indulgence.

Have an excellent 4th of July luvvies! And don't forget that (red) lipstick.