The 4th of July, which marks USA independence from British rule, is a time for food, friends, and fun. It's also a time for plenty of fashion inspired by the iconic flag, symbol of the American way.

Diego Navarrete here decks out his favorite apparel for the 4th: what's yours? Submit your favorite shots by June 27th, 2013 for a chance to be featured in our "Salute Our Flag" editorial, which will debut July 1st, 2013.

By Carlos Ferreira | Fashion Reporter, Photographer

Anastasia Marie is a student at the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor specializing in Marketing. Her goal is to work for a Fortune 500 company one day and travel the world with her boyfriend, Paul. At the young age of 20, Anastasia is wise beyond her years and believes that both elegance and sophistication should be a part of every woman's life. "There's a certain beauty and essence that comes with feeling good about yourself and radiating that energy outwardly in the form of style," commented Anastasia. "Unlike trends, elegance never dies."

Anastasia doesn't consider herself a model, nor does she want to pursuit a professional career as one. "I think it's a great way to get yourself out there and open up doors to worlds beyond grasp," she noted as she brushed her hair after the shoot. "There are some people who would kill to be in this scene, but to me it's an everyday ordeal that simply makes me feel pretty."

Two distinct looks were arranged, which focused on the subtle elegance Anastasia desires to complete with her look. A fan of simple yet classy arrangements, Anastasia believes that simplicity means more. "I am a huge believer in the philosophy that less is more, and more is just annoying," she joked. "But in all seriousness, the only time more is beneficial is when it comes to money and love."

Getting ready for a bridal shower, Anastasia quickly switched into her dress and wanted PdM to capture a bit of the energy she felt inside. "I'm really excited for my girlfriend to finally get hitched. She's 23 and has been waiting for this moment her entire life: I'm so happy for her!" Anastasia embodies youthful exuberance with sophisticated beauty that created a wonderful figure to photograph.

To catch more of Anastasia, make sure you follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

By Carlos Ferreira | Fashion Reporter, Photography

As the weather begins to finally warm up in Chicago, PdM Models begin to enjoy the sea, sun, and sand found on our man-made beaches. Johnny, 22, of Peoria, Illinois, remembers coming to Chicago every summer to spend time with his aunt and uncle in the Lincoln Park community. "I was about 12 when I first came to Chicago on my own. Some of my fondest memories include grabbing a Chicago hotdog while watching a baseball game with my cousins."

These days, Johnny is not simply visiting Chicago, he has become a very notable piece of the ChiTown puzzle. A former student at DePaul University, he is proud to state that he dropped out before the tuition became a burden. "I went (to DePaul) for a year and decided it wasn't for me," he mentioned with a big grin. "Don't get me wrong, nice school, but I was never the 'study type' per se."

Johnny dropped out of college to starts a business with a family friend. "We primarily work in construction, landscaping, and development projects across Illinois, and I love it." When asked if he regrets having the chance to gain an authentic college experience, he laughed. "Honestly, an experience is what you make of it: college just wasn't for me."

While he admits that college would have been an "easy way" to make friends, learn about new perspectives, and make useful connections, Johnny is an avid believer in making the most of every experience. "I believe in karma and I believe in God. I am a full-believer in bringing a good, healthy perspective to the table no matter what the cause. If you don't put a good smile and a great attitude for the world to see, you're going to miss many interesting opportunities."

Currently single, he admits that a workaholic personality often prevents him from finding the right girl. "I love women, but I'd rather work my butt off now, develop useful skills, and hit the gym. Women are gorgeous and I love them, but I won't make the best boyfriend by simply being idle: I want to be a good man for my woman."

Johnny is in and out of Chicago for diverse work projects, but is available for modeling opportunities in the Chicagoland area. For more info on appearances and rate, contact PdM directly.