What is the first thing that comes to mind from the word “neon?” Personally, I think of a decade, not long passed, and cringe at the thought of it. The 1980s. We all remember it, or at least know it from any classic John Hughes film.
Lucky for us, 2012 is not a year of Molly Ringwald-esque homemade prom dresses and tacky leg warmers that look like they were dropped in a pool of highlighter ink. It is, however, a year of being bold with color. It’s just done a different way this time around.
Neon may not be for head-to-toe looks anymore, but it is everywhere. It has been showing up on all of the runways, just this time in a grown-up, modern way. The best way to do it is by introducing the colors through accessories. This Fashionista did just that. With the neutral black and white of her outfit, the bag popped, just the way it should. There was even a subtle pop of color on her sunglasses, taking at least some of the attention away from the bag.
Neon accessories are definitely not hard to find. Vintage thrift stores are a great place to look, as long as you choose the right pieces. Free People has a ton of great products, as well that are colorful and bright, but also soft enough to keep it fashionable. They even have a bag similar to this Fashionista’s, and it comes in two other colors. Just be sure to note that the “color of pink bag is way more neon than what is pictured.”
Another highlighter shade for you wardrobe: this shirtdress. It’s bright, but the fabric is light and feminine helping to balance it out. With this dress add accessories that are darker; hints of black, blue, or even dark purple. Urban Outfitters generally has more of the obvious bold choices, but for something a bit subtler try this scarf. It’s got a mixture of color, keeping the focus off the neon, but it could work as a smooth transition for those feeling a little trepidation.
Neon is here to stay. Even if it goes in and out of style over the years, it finds it’s way back in a whole new way just like any other fashion trend. If only Jake Ryan and his Porsche could come back too…
Spotted: Peter Som’s spring 2012 show was all about color blocking, bright neons and 1960s silhouettes.
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