The United States Flag Code is tricky. It is federal law, but the only penalty in Title 18, burning the flag in a disrespectful manner, was ruled as free speech but the Supreme Court.
Everything outside of that considered less of a felony offense and more in a gray area. It might seem cute and patriotic to have American flag toothpicks, napkins, or beach towels, but it’s kind of disrespectful to wipe the burger grease off with the American flag and throw it aside.
That being said, the most commonly pointed out violation is with costumes or attire. The flag symbolizes freedom so it’s everyone’s right to do whatever they feel right with it, respectfully or (as much as it irks me to say it) disrespectfully.
Every entry on this list is done with good intentions. Some hit their mark — others didn’t.
#1. Macho Man Randy Savage
Nothing screams ‘Murica like good ol’ professional wrestling.
Macho Man is ready to elbow drop any commie bast*rd with just his style alone.
#2. Tomi Lauren
It’s actually kind of cool, rocking the American flag as a cape strapped at the wrists like she’s Storm from the X-Men.
But every last bit of her cool points are lost, however. I’m sorry. No one can #MakeHalloweenGreatAgain wearing a fanny pack. People still laugh at Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for wearing a fanny pack back in the 90’s. Even “The Rock” mocks “The Rock” for wearing a fanny pack back in the 90’s.
#3. Vanilla Ice
The one of the faces of mainstream early 90’s Hip Hop loved his country.
They were fashionable enough to spark imitation through out the 90’s. But do his red, white, and blue tracksuits and leather jackets still hold up in 2017?
#4. Chris Evans (as Captain America)
You best believe that the Superhero with America in his name rocks the American flag on his super suit.
As early as March 1941, Cap can usually be found rocking the same style. Blue field and white star on the top half, red and white stripes down the abs.
#5. Katy Perry
She actually rocks the American flag quite often. Always with flair.
Her outfit for Fleet Week was simple, yet still flashy. The only way to complete an outfit like this is with a Marine on her arms.
#6. Kid Rock
Quickest way to make an outfit using Old Glory? Cut a hole down the middle and wear it as a poncho like Kid Rock did during the 2003 Superbowl.
Just watch out. People won’t take kindly to you cutting the American flag.
#7. Carl Weathers (as Apollo Creed)
Apollo Creed always worked into the ring with patriotic trunks. What really took it to the next level is when in Rocky IV, he fought Ivan Drago in the most American way possible: by bringing his Soviet opponent to Vegas and dressing as Uncle Sam. *Spoiler Alert* It doesn’t work out well.
Although it is a touching moment when his son dons his red, white, and blue trunks in the 2015 film, Creed.
#8. Lady Gaga
Great outfit and extremely dignified rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner” at Super Bowl 50.
Just hurts that her outfit in her music video “Telephone” has the field on the wrong side.
#9. Hulk Hogan
There will always be a soft spot in my heart for pro wrestling — wacky and crazy gimmicks and all. Very long and convoluted story cut short, the other half of The Mega Powers (with the previously mentioned Macho Man) came back after Wrestlemania XIX billed as Mr. America. Using the same poses, walk music, move set, and fooling no one.
Still very patriotic though.
*Bonus* This Corgi
No one can out patriot this puppy.
