Celebrate France with a Bastille Day party

Taking place during the same month as America's birthday, Bastille Day (July 14) celebrates the end of the French monarchy and the beginning of the republic.

For Francophiles in the U.S., this means giving your party planning a bit of chic flair and creating an ode to all things French.

If you still have some red, white and blue decorations sitting around from the 4th of July, you may be able to reuse them on Bastille Day - these are the same colors of the French flag.

Ask guests to wear their berets, striped shirts and black turtlenecks to conjure up the mood of Paris in the 60s. Add a little Edith Piaf music in the background and you'll begin to feel you've stepped out of a Goddard film.

When it comes to food, your inspiration is nearly limitless. You could host a fondue get-together, lay out an assortment of bread and cheeses, organize a make-your-own crepe spread or cook a three-course dinner that would make Julia Child proud.

Don't forget the red wine and champagne - it would be considered a great faux pas to omit France's most celebrated beverages.

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