It is very rare that I find myself overthinking an outfit. While I do put ample thought into what I wear—checking the weather, getting dressed with important meetings and after-work commitments in mind, and asking myself how long I can really walk in a pair of platforms—I’m not one to spiral like Cher in Clueless looking for her white, collarless shirt from Fred Segal, or make a mess of my room, trying on everything I own while bemoaning that I have nothing to wear! There are two exceptions, though: If I’m going to a game and cheering for a team with red, white, and blue team colors, or, if it’s the Fourth of July.

A few months ago, while in Philadelphia for a 76ers vs. Golden State Warriors game, I opted for a blue crop top, a white faux fur coat, and a bold red lip. I wanted to look like I was supporting the Sixers, but I did not want to look like a walking American flag; I know I’m not alone in that trepidation.

American history is marred by atrocities against Black people: Slavery, Jim Crow, lynching, centuries of systemic racism that has permeated everything from public education and the justice system to housing and healthcare. All of this has transpired, and much of it continues to, despite the fact that the United States as we know it would not exist without the contributions of Black people. I was born and raised here. I could not be more proud of my ancestors. I have lived a comfortable and privileged life in America. But given all the ways the country has mistreated and disenfranchised Black people, I’ve never been compelled to wear patriotism on my sleeve. That sentiment is especially strong today, as I find myself increasingly enraged by this country’s current political and social landscape. This Fourth of July I will likely be in black; to me, it feels more like America’s funeral than its birthday.

Beyoncé in Coperni.

Photo: Courtesy of Parkwood Entertainment