How US fashion is marking America's 250th anniversary
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On 4 July, the United States is set to mark a very special date: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, a milestone in American history also known as the Semiquincentennial. With planning for this occasion starting more than a decade ago, festivities have been taking place since the start of the year. Ahead of the big day, FashionUnited takes a closer look at how the fashion industry is marking the occasion, highlighting some of the events, special products, and collections, and launching.
CFDA, Vogue, America250, and Rockefeller Center unveil the United Flags of Fashion
To mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the CFDA and Vogue partnered with Rockefeller Center and America250, the national nonpartisan organization leading the commemoration of the 250th anniversary, on a project known as the United Flags of Fashion. American designers were invited to reimagine the flags of the 50 states, five US territories, and Washington DC.
More than 120 custom flags will be on display around the Rink at Rockefeller Center from July 27 to September 4, 2026, accompanied by a launch event celebrating the legacy of American fashion. Vogue’s own flag, designed by artist Hazel Zavala, reinterprets the US flag through American quilt-making and contemporary abstract art; the CFDA flag was created by illustrator Ruben Toledo; and the Rockefeller Center flag was designed by Nell Diamond, founder and CEO of Hill House Home.
“The flags are a reminder of how creativity and making beautiful things are twin sources of national pride. All the fashion designers we spoke to were thrilled to make flags, and they took to the project joyfully,” said Anna Wintour, chief content officer, Condé Nast, global editorial director, Vogue, in a statement. “This moment in history provides us with a unique chance to honor the imagination, ingenuity, and diversity that embody the American spirit. Fashion has long contributed to our nation’s story—showcasing its resilience, celebrating individuality, and influencing cultures,” added Steven Kolb, CEO and president of the CFDA.
Wolverine launches new USA-built boot
American footwear brand Wolverine has launched a new boot, the USA-Built Loader II DuraShock Wedge, as part of a broader campaign celebrating the people who are pursuing their American dream and helping shape the next chapter of the nation. The new style is built in Texas by local workers from a mix of locally and internationally sourced materials and features the brand’s iconic shock-absorbing system to reduce impact and foot fatigue, as well as subtle design features inspired by the American flag.
Created to surpass the demands of warehouse, manufacturing, and trade professionals who work long hours on their feet, the launch also includes a crewneck pullover, made in California. “We honor the people who built this country and continue to keep it running today,” said Mike Maloney, global general manager of Wolverine, in a statement. “The tradesmen of the past built the foundation we stand on today, and that same grit and determination lives on in the modern workforce. As the original work boot brand, Wolverine is proud to carry that legacy forward by combining heritage craftsmanship with the comfort and performance today’s workers depend on.” The boot launches online and in selected Wolverine stores on June 25.
Vineyards Vines launches exclusive capsule collection
Coastal lifestyle brand Vineyards Vines has launched an exclusive capsule collection for the 250th anniversary of the United States, inspired by summers spent on Martha’s Vineyard. One of the official licensees of America250, the nonpartisan organisation, the brand developed a special assortment of t-shirts, hoodies, quarter-zips, hats, and more that feature American flag motifs, the classic color palette, and more.
"America's 250th anniversary is a once-in-a-generation celebration, so we wanted to create something special that lets our customers be part of it,” said Shep Murray, co-founder and CEO of Vineyard Vines. "This collection brings together everything we love about summer, family, tradition, and the American spirit in a way that feels authentic to Vineyard Vines. We're excited and proud to celebrate this historic milestone with our Vineyard Vines community.” The collection is available exclusively online.
Wrangler debuts 250 Years of America
US Denim brand Wrangler launched a special Americana collection celebrating all things red, white, and blue. The Wrangler x 250 Years of American collection includes denim jeans, shorts, t-shirts, button-downs, dresses, accessories, and more for women and men. Styles feature iconic Americana elements, such as stars, stripe patterns, wild horses, and paisley prints.
“Since 1947, Wrangler has been an integral part of the American story. It’s denim that has been through it all and worn by generations. This capsule celebrates 250 years of the American story with classic jeans, iconic details, and Americana colors that feel sun-faded and familiar from the very first wear,” wrote the brand on its website. The collection is now available online and in stores nationwide.
Sunday Swagger partners with the US Army for a limited-edition collection
Performance golf and lifestyle brand Sunday Swagger has partnered with the US Army to create a special collection that honors the country’s oldest military branch and the service members who wrote its history. The Sunday Swagger x US Army collection includes 27 styles for men, women, and youth, including polos, outerwear, hats, golf accessories, and lifestyle products, all inspired by Army heritage, strength, and the "Be All You Can Be" spirit.
“As America celebrates its 250th anniversary this summer, Sunday Swagger is proud to honor the US. Army with this exciting new collection,” said Mark Carmona, founder of Sunday Swagger, in a statement. “This is the most meaningful collaboration in our company history, and we know our customers will wear it with pride.” The collection is now available online.