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July and August are some of the most picturesque months to visit Main Streets of New England!

The scene is patriotic with American flags waving on light poles and buntings abutting fences and window trim. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to photograph some amazing Main Streets, but nothing makes me smile more than when backroad home off the main drag decorates with the same vigor. 

Throughout my six years of blogging, I’ve taken note of what works and what doesn’t when it comes to decorating with patriotism in mind. I’ve learned you can’t go wrong with the simplicity of flags and buntings adorning your home exterior.

Whether it’s a colonial flag swaying on an old New England home or petite flags lining your fence, I’m sharing my tips for channeling Main Street style:

Flags

You’d be surprised at the instant curb appeal a classic American Flag can do!

In New England, you’ll often find colonial homes paying homage to their history by flying a present-day American Flag alongside a Colonial Flag – as seen on the home above. My home is undergoing exterior renovation in August, so it will be exciting when Matt and I can raise our own American Flag outside our house!

Buntings

During July, buntings line all of New England Main Streets. Buntings are an affordable way to add charm both inside and outside your home. I purchased these traditional red, white and blue buntings for my Mom and they’ve held up great. Investing in an antique bunting set is also a great option.

Traditionally you’ll see buntings under windows or alongside fences, but in the images below you’ll see how the Griswold Inn in Essex, CT hung them under their porch roofline. I’ve used my own exterior buntings to decorate our family boat for the 4th of July. I’ve also used them as a table decoration for Memorial Day picnics. 

My outfit details:

Recently while visiting Matt’s brother, Ryan and his girlfriend, Amber, in Essex, CT – I decided to wear a Kate Spade dress. The dress features a sweet babydoll silhouette with a ruffled placket and bees covering the classic blue and white stripes. The design is a fun and feminine twist on the typical summer shirt dress. Plus, I got the dress at a discounted rate from my local Kate Spade outlet! I recommend sizing down, as it runs big.

Make sure to share below how you decorate your home exterior for summer! Are you a fan of the classic patriotic look?

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