Wear Neon Colors

Wearing neon is a fun, bold way to inject some serious color into your wardrobe. Here are some tips for rocking a modern, standout look.

Steps

  1. Ensure that that neon is appropriate and acceptable for the event you plan to attend. The following guidance may be of use to working this out:
    • Neon colored clothing is easily worn on the beach and can be appropriate for nights out with friends in casual settings.
    • Wearing neon is not recommended at job interviews, traditional formal affairs, or somber occasions, such as funerals.
    • Neon clothing is not appropriate for school unless it's Casual Day.
    • Neon clothing is useful for high visibility, such as when cycling or working near vehicles.
    If you are unsure about wearing neon to an event, consult event dress codes and guidelines.

Casual Dress

  1. Choose colors that complement your hair and skin. The easiest way to do this is to choose pumped up versions of colors you already wear.
    • If you look lovely in navy, try a brighter neon blue.
    • Do you always get compliments on your rosy lipstick? Why not try wearing neon pink?
    • If wearing dark green plays up the color of your eyes, see what neon green can do.
  2. Consider pairing neons with light-colored neutrals such as beige or white. Combining a neon with a lighter neutral color both kicks up the neutral and tones down the neon. A hot pink leather skirt and simple white T-shirt, for example, is clean, modern, and unexpected.[1]
  3. Opt for small pops of color. Plain, sweet outfits can become far more interesting with just the addition of small amounts of neon. Try wearing a neon colored sports bra underneath a lightweight spring top for a small but noticeable pop of color.[2]
  4. Try neon jeans. The classic pants we love come in all colors of the spectrum and can be paired with various tops and shoes to create looks for nearly any occasion.
    • Wear neon jeans with a light colored tee, denim jacket, and simple ballet flats for a casual day look.
    • Pair your neon jeans with a sweet cotton neutral-colored blouse and bold handbag for a clean, preppy look.
    • For a sleek nighttime look, consider wearing neon jeans with a sophisticated patterned blouse, metallic pumps, and a clutch[3].
  5. Mixing textures is a fashion “do.” Changing seasons offer more unique opportunities for working neon colors into our wardrobes. Try combining heavier autumn fabrics with neons to brighten your look.
    • Match an electric blue blouse with gray tweed pants for a chic, professional look.
    • Try an oversized neon pink sweater with slim black tuxedo pants and pumps for a casual evening look.
    • Wear a bright neon top with some black or navy jeans and vice versa. If you're feeling adventurous (but be aware of the consequences!) try wearing some lemon yellow jeans with a bright blue top. If you try this latter outfit, don't wear any necklaces or bracelets.
  6. Opt for traditional shoes in a vibrant, new color. Traditional casual shoes such as oxfords, ballet flats, and even sneakers now come in a wide array of bright, unexpected colors. Try wearing them with jeans and complementary neon colors or neutrals.
    • Neon shoes look great but not with neon jeans, as it's just too much. Don't overdo it.

Formal Dress

  1. Try neon dresses in a classic shape. A-lines, shifts and sheaths receive a modern interpretation with the introduction of a bright new color. Combining classics and neons is an accessible way to try out this new color trend.
  2. Use caution when pairing big neon color blocks with black. Doing so can create too much contrast and appear dated. On the other hand, black with ultraviolet or neon blue embellishments? Yes, please.
  3. Bright neon overcoats can make a huge statement. An overcoat is a great, simple way to make an entrance (and exit) and paired with black tights, heels, and a simple bun or ponytail, can be even more exciting and chic than the sheath you’ve got on underneath.
  4. Consider adding neon heels to the mix. Whether you opt for solid neon orange platforms or black kitten heels with electric blue accents, make sure the shoes enhance your outfit.
    • Use brightly colored shoes to set-off a classic black-and-white outfit.
    • Don’t feel forced to match your shoes and accessories. If your shoes and purse are the exact shade, it may appear dated. Instead, opt for complementary colors like bright green shoes with an orange clutch or an electric aqua belt with a bright yellow satchel.

Accessories

  1. Take smaller leaps by accessorizing. Use accessories to inject bold—yet subtle—hints of color into your outfits. Consider wearing a neon statement necklace with an all-black outfit or neon bangles with a cotton tee and slacks.
    • Try wearing a neon necklace with a black top or some nice bright earrings. It's all these little things that makes outfits so great.
  2. Choose double-duty accessories. During cold-weather months, neon accessories such as tights, leggings, earmuffs, or gloves can keep you warm with style.
  3. Don’t forget your purse! Handbags and clutches all come in electrifying colors. As with shoes, choose a handbag that is appropriate for your outfit and occasion. If you are shy about big color, why not try a smaller, cross-body bag or colorful tote?

Beauty

  1. Accentuate your facial features. Neon makeup may sound scary, but combining a mostly nude face with a pop of color at the eyes or lips can make for a bold, modern look.
    • Combine bolder looks with subtler ones. Try bright lips with a pastel dress, or a neon cat eye with a dark blazer and crisp slacks.
    • If you’re wearing neon makeup, keep your hairstyle simple. A classic ponytail or bun sweeps hair back while drawing attention to your face.
    • Balance your makeup. Bright saturated colors everywhere can make you seem overdone and garish. If you create a dramatic eye, be sure to combine it with a subtle or nude lip. Bright pink or red lips pop when paired with subtle, neutral eye makeup.
  2. Try bright colors on fingers and toes. Unexpected colors, designs, and embellishments (rhinestones anyone?) have worked their way into the mainstream. Neon polishes are everywhere! For an added twist, try a neon French manicure.
    • Paint using neon nail varnish.You could have different colors for each nail.



Tips

  • Don't overdo it. Too many neons worn at the same time might overwhelm your look.
  • Neon clothing is a fad, so it's wise to choose a couple signature pieces to work into your wardrobe rather than spending loads of money on clothing that can quickly become outdated.

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Sources and Citations

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