How to Rock Neon this Summer
Terri F
Expert fashion designer with Miss Mafia and has a flair for unique style.
Ahh, neon is so in right now. With the summer weather coming, it feels like everyone's busting out bright sundresses and surf shorts this season. Hot pink, highlighter yellow, and lime green look fun on the department store rack, but if we're honest? It's also a bit...intimidating.
Experimenting with neon is a lot of fun, but working this style into your outfit can be tricky. If you've got a bright turquoise pencil skirt or a pair of tangerine kicks gathering dust in the back of your closet, you're not alone. Buying a neon shirt or accessory is half the battle. Now, you have to figure out how to wear it. .
Of course, highlighter-bright shades aren't for the faint of heart! With any bold style, there's a few tricks that can make or break the outfit. But once you know how to work those neon hues, you'll be lighting up your summer nights. Here's our top 5 tips for how to pull off a neon 80s-inspired style in 2019.
Tone-On-Tone Combos
When in doubt, look for the same colour in a different tone. For example, if you're rocking neon purple pumps, try layering tones with a complimentary lavender skirt or dark purple shades. Lighter or darker shades that are in the same colour family is a safe way to make sure that you're not clashing, or overdosing on neon. That banana-yellow vinyl trench you bought on a whim? Rock it with a pale, butter-yellow band-aid dress underneath.
Express Yourself with 80s Style
In 2019, neon is one of the hottest trends. But it's important to remember where this style came from. Neon colours debuted in the 80s, so if you're trying to piece together a neon-inspired look, try taking your fashion cues from that decade. If you're rocking a hot pink dress, try some black leg warmers or fingerless gloves to pull your modern, neon 80s style together.
Try One Accent Piece
Neon is bright. It's eye-catching. That's kind of the point. So, wherever you choose to put bright colours on your body will be the first place people look. If you wear too many bright pieces at once, it can be a bit distracting to the eye. Instead, stick to a single statement piece.
Rocking a luminous top? Then make the rest of your outfit neutral. When you focus on one statement piece, it will get even more attention because people know where to look.
Black, Neon & Pastels
This style tip takes it's cue from alternative fashion. Think the underground rave scene of the 90s (hello, glowsticks--the ultimate accessory!) or the emo/screamo scenes of the early 2000s. Black looks good with everything, and those dark shades make your neon stand out even brighter.
Confidence: The Ultimate Accessory
Hey, neon 80s style isn't for everyone. A bright and bold neon pattern might just be what makes you happy, but remember--it's a bold look. You'll feel different when you step out the door, and you'll be sure to turn a few heads. That's a good thing! Just breathe, throw your shoulders back and remember that with a neon outfit, confidence is the ultimate accessory.