Miss Independent: A DIY Guide to Doing the Fourth in Style

When we think of Fourth of July, we think backyard barbecues, laying on the beach, tannning our can, looking hot in a cute bikini and...that's about it.  This year, chill out in style, no matter where you're headed or who you're enjoying the fireworks with.

Flair in Your Hair -  Nothing spruces up a crisp white outfit like a colorful burst of flowers in your hair.  Make the perfect summer headband by simply buying a stem of your favorite flowers and a thin matching ribbon at the craft or drug store. Wind the ribbon around a cheap drug store headband and secure using hot glue.  Cut the stem of the flower so that there is just a little bit of nub left showing and dab that with hot glue to secure to the headband. Voila! Chic, summer style.

Basket It - If you're headed to a party, arrive in style toting your food or drinks in a summer basket. We picked up one of The Container Store's "Natural Weave" baskets for just $3.99 and decorated it by weaving in some cheap red, white and blue scarves we picked up at a garage sale (five for five dollars). It fits a six pack or a bottle of wine perfectly!

Jello Shots - In charge of making drinks? Nothing cools you down and gets the party going like a little bit of J-e-l-l-o (the red and blue flavors obviously!)  Follow all the directions on the Jell-o packet, but just add in a splash of vodka to your mix. Pour into individual cups and let it sit at least 24 hours.  Trust us, you'll be the most popular girl at the party when you arrive with these in tow.

Above all, remember to be safe and stay far away from whoever is craziest enough to light the fireworks. Happy Independence Day!

(For more great summer DIY tips and tricks, go to www.yaydiy.com.)