Adding a pop of neon to your wardrobe or decor is an easy way to make a bold statement. Vibrant neon hues instantly liven up any look. When thinking about incorporating neon into your style, consider these tips for rocking the trend.
Choosing Your Neon Shades
Neon comes in a rainbow of shades from neon pink, green, yellow, blue, orange, and purple. While all neon colors pack a punch, some hues may suit your style better than others.
Complement Your Coloring
Choose neon shades that work with your skin tone and hair color. If you have warm undertones, go for warmer neon hues like neon orange, yellow, or pink. Those with cool undertones can pull off cooler neon shades like purples, blues, and greens.
Match Your Personality
Bolder personalities may want to go for highlighter neon shades like a bright neon yellow. If you wish to take a more subdued approach to the trend, try soft neon tones like peach or mint green. The vibrancy level you choose reflects your own vibrant spirit.
Consider Neon as an Accent
You don’t have to wear head-to-toe neon to rock the trend. Adding a neon pop to an otherwise neutral outfit makes the neon really stand out. Neon accessories like bags, shoes, jewelry are an easy way to incorporate neon into your look without going overboard.
Neon Clothing Items to Try
Neon colors lend themselves perfectly to certain clothing items and accessories. Here are some ideas for pieces to try in neon hues:
Statement Tees and Tops
Nothing says fun and fearless like a neon t-shirt or tank. Neon tops pair well with jeans, shorts, or skirts. For maximum impact, wear neon up top and neutral on the bottom.
Eye-Catching Outerwear
Top off any outfit with a lightweight neon jacket. Bomber and denim jackets work well in neon shades. A neon coat makes any look pop.
Bright Bags
A neon crossbody bag, tote, or purse injects instant color into any ensemble. Neon bags allow you to switch up your look by swapping out accessories.
Fun Footwear
Neon sneakers, heels, sandals, or flats make a bold style statement. Unexpected neon shoes complete any outfit.
Swimsuits and Cover Ups
Neon swimwear and swim coverups ensure you stand out poolside. Neon one-pieces, bikinis, and sundresses transform your beachwear.
Shorts and Skirts
Neon bottoms like shorts, skirts, and skorts balance out neutral or muted tops. Pair neon bottoms with simple t-shirts, tanks, or blouses.
Neon Dresses and Jumpsuits
For maximum neon impact, opt for a brightly-hued dress or jumpsuit. Slip into an eye-catching neon frock for your next event.
Ways to Style Neon Clothing
When building an outfit with neon pieces, balance is key. Follow these tips to keep your neon look polished.
Pair with Neutrals
Anchor neon clothing with neutral basics like jeans, gray or white tees, nude heels, and tan handbags. Neutrals allow the neon to really stand out.
Mix Colors Thoughtfully
Combine multiple neon colors carefully. Stick to 2-3 maximum. Neon pink and orange or neon yellow and green work well together.
Add Metallic Accents
Incorporate some metallic shine with neon brights. Gold, silver, bronze, and rose gold jewelry and accessories complement neon nicely.
Remember Less is More
Resist the urge to wear neon from head to toe. Let neon be the focal point and keep other pieces pared back to give neon room to shine.
Consider Proportions
If wearing a neon dress or bottom, balance it out with a neutral fitted top. The neon will pop against a streamlined silhouette.
Neon in Home Decor
Use neon accents in your home decor to add pops of color and personality. Here are some ideas for incorporating neon decor.
Neon Wall Art
Framed neon prints, neon light signs, and neon wall art add instant vibrancy. Place neon wall hangings strategically in neutral rooms.
Neon Furnishings
Add bright neon seating like chairs, stools, or a sofa to turn up the volume in any room. Use neon decor sparingly against muted backdrops.
Vibrant Accents
Neon accents like throw pillows, rugs, blankets, and table lamps inject life into dull decor. Use neon accents in small doses for maximum impact.
Uplighting and Lampshades
Install neon uplighting or use neon lampshades to cast a colorful glow. Use soft neon lighting to set a fun mood.
Kitchen and Dining Accessories
Neon barware, serveware, and linens liven up kitchens and dining spaces. Mugs, dishes, and tablecloths get an instant upgrade.
Outdoor Spaces
Illuminate patios, porches, and pools by stringing neon lighting overhead. Glowing neon sets a festive ambiance outdoors.
How to Pull Off the Neon Trend
Rocking neon colors does require some finesse. Use these strategies to flawlessly incorporate neon into your look:
- Start small with neon accessories as you get comfortable with brighter hues.
- Ensure neon flatters your skin tone and pairs well with your wardrobe basics.
- Counterbalance neon pieces with neutral staples like denim, white tees, nude shoes.
- Mix neon with metallics like gold and silver for extra dimension.
- Remember less is more – let neon be the star and keep other pieces simple.
- Have fun and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find looks that make you glow.
The neon trend exudes confidence and vibrancy. With the right balance, touches of neon can electrify both your wardrobe and decor. Take the plunge and give neon a test drive!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Neon Trend
Neon colors make a bold statement. Here are answers to some common questions about wearing and decorating with neon:
What are the most popular neon colors?
Neon green, pink, orange, yellow, and blue are the most ubiquitous neon shades. Purple, lime green, and teal neon are also gaining popularity.
Where can I buy neon clothing and accessories?
Many retailers like Target, Forever21, Urban Outfitters, and Nasty Gal carry affordable neon pieces. Check out retailers aimed at younger consumers for the trendiest neon finds.
How should men incorporate neon into their style?
For men, neon works best as small accents integrated into an otherwise neutral look. Try a neon tee under a gray blazer, neon sneakers, or a neon chronograph watch.
What is the best way to mix patterns with neon?
Pair neon with simple graphic prints or basic stripes and solids. Loud neons and bold prints tend to compete. Keep additional patterns clean and minimal.
How can I use neon in a classy, sophisticated way?
Opt for softer pastel neon shades instead of highlighter brights. Incorporate neon through upscale accessories like a designer neon bag or heels instead of loud clothing.
Is neon flattering on mature skin tones?
Soft neon shades tend to be more flattering than highly saturated brights on mature complexions. Pastel neon pinks, peaches, mint, and lilac are sophisticated options.
What colors pair best with neon in home decor?
Decorating with neon? Stick to black, white, gray neutrals to make the neon really stand out. Wood tones and natural textures also complement neon nicely.
Where should I use neon lighting at home?
Use neon lighting to illuminate dark corners, outline architectural details, or accent decor. Neon uplighting behind furniture or under cabinets adds a fun glow.
What’s the best way to incorporate neon into a kids’ room?
Use neon in kids’ rooms through bedding, pillows, wall art, storage bins, and accessories. Painting one focal wall neon is also a fun, reversible idea.
Neon injects youthful excitement into any look or space. With some thoughtful styling, you can rock this bold trend in a sophisticated way.
Test Driving Neon
Considering taking neon for a spin? Here are some ideas to get you started rocking this bold, vibrant trend with confidence:
Accessorize with Neon Jewelry
Jewelry is an easy way to add a pop of neon. Try statement neon earrings, a neon pendant necklace, neon bangle bracelets, or neon rings. Neon jewelry instantly amps up basic outfits.
Liven Up Neutrals with a Neon Heel
An unexpected neon pump, sandal, or mule can make an LBD or jeans and tee so much more interesting. neon footwear gives neutral outfits a fun kick.
Brighten Up Basics with a Neon Bag
A neon crossbody, tote, or handbag adds an instant colorful twist to plain ensembles. Swap out bright bags to change up your vibe daily.
Take Loungewear Up a Notch with Neon Accents
Elevate lazy days in a neon bralette, neon shorts, or a neon cropped hoodie. Neon loungewear keeps comfy clothes interesting.
Make a Statement in a Neon Dress
When you want to turn heads, nothing does the trick like a figure-hugging neon dress. Make neon the star and keep accessories simple.
Liven Up Your Look with a Neon Coat
Top off any outfit with a lightweight neon jacket or coat in a pink, orange, yellow, green or blue. Neon outerwear instantly energizes any ensemble.
Take the Plunge in Neon Swimwear
Make poolside style pop in a neon one-piece, bikini, or coverup. Neon swimwear and accessories show off your bold spirit.
Brighten Up Your Walls with Neon Art
Liven up neutral walls with eye-catching framed neon prints or light-up neon signs. Strategically place neon art for maximum impact.
Dine in Style with Neon Decor
Lay out neon dinnerware for an instant mood-lifting meal. Neon napkins, tablecloths, glassware also enliven dining tables.
Get Your Beauty Glow with Neon Nails
Neon nails, eyeshadow, or lipstick allow you to experiment with neon in lower-commitment ways. Play up your features with neon cosmetics.
Whatever your personal style, touches of neon give looks and spaces an instant energy boost. Approach the trend with confidence and have fun seeing just how neon brightens up your day-to-day vibe!
What a Spark: Embracing the Allure of the Neon Aesthetic
In recent years, neon has made a major resurgence across beauty, fashion, and decor realms. Those vibrant, glowing shades have a way of conjuring both nostalgia for decades past while still feeling cutting-edge and modern. When used thoughtfully, neon has a remarkable power to enliven spaces and styles. Explore the origins behind the cyclic neon trend, key ways to incorporate it into your aesthetic, and advice for making neon work for you.
The Evolution of Neon as a Cultural Force
Neon lighting first emerged in the early 20th century, with neon signs gaining popularity in the 1920s. Neon became ubiquitous in 1950s and 60s advertising and cinema. Images of buzzing neon marquees, motels, and diners defined the look of mid-century America.
Neon fashion also exploded in the 80s and 90s. The bright hues came to define eras like workout gear in the 80s, rave culture neon in the 90s. Pop culture kept neon alive, from the neon lightsabers of Star Wars to tv shows like Miami Vice.
Today, neon is having another major moment as the cyclical nature of trends reintroduces neon to new generations. Its radiance adds retro flair but also modern edge to today’s styles.
Key Ways to Work Neon into Your Look
From makeup to clothing to accessories, neon presents endless possibilities to amp up your style.
Pops of Neon Clothing
An easy way to dip into the neon trend is by incorporating pops of neon clothing into neutral wardrobes. A neon jacket, mini skirt, dress, or top makes an instant statement.
Neon Shoes
Neon footwear like sneakers, sandals, or pumps electrify any outfit. Unexpected neon shoes are a clever way to wear the trend.
Neon Bags
A neon crossbody, tote, or handbag serves as a versatile statement accessory that can transform your vibe.
Neon Jewelry
From statement earrings to stacked bangles, neon jewelry lets you accessorize with vibrant flair.
Neon Makeup
Experiment with neon eyeshadow, liner, or lipstick for a beauty boost. Try neon nails for lower-commitment pops of color.
Rocking Retro Neon Home Decor
The neon trend lends a fun, retro flair to home decor as well. Incorporate neon through:
Neon Wall Art and Signage
Illuminated neon signs, movie marquee lights, and framed prints add instant nostalgic vibrancy.
Glowing Neon Lighting
Use neon lighting strips under cabinets, bars, bed frames, or shelves to create a retro glow effect.
Neon Accent Pieces
Pillows, vases, barware, kitchenware, and table lamps in neon shades enliven rooms when used strategically.
Tips for Making Neon Work for You
While neon makes a delightfully bold statement, incorporating it tastefully does require some strategy:
- Stick to just 1-2 neon statement pieces per look or space so neon remains the focal point.
- Anchor neon with plenty of neutral pieces so the neon has room to shine.
- Ensure neon colors complement your complexion and personal style aesthetic.
- Mix neon with metallics like silver, gold, and rose gold for extra dimension.
- Size down neon accessories (like mini bags) so they don’t overwhelm petite frames.
- Opt for soft pastel neon shades if you wish for a more subdued take on the trend.
- Limit yourself to 2-3 neon colors per look or space for visual cohesion.
Neon conveys vibrancy, energy, and youthful fun. With thoughtful styling, embrace the allure of neon to give your look and decor an instant infusion of retro-modern playfulness.
Lighting Up With Neon: Exploring Its Allure and Applications
Neon lighting was first created in the early 1900s, but it wasn’t until the middle of the century that neon signs became iconic staples of 1950s and 60s Americana. Images of buzzing, glowing neon illuminating diners, motels, and theaters came to define mid-century popular culture. Though neon never fully disappeared from the cultural consciousness, its cyclical nature as a trend has brought it surging back to prominence in recent decades. Today both fashion and interior design are emulating neon’s signature radiance in exciting modern ways.
The Science Behind Neon’s Appeal
The vivid tones of neon lighting stems from the unique properties of the noble gases neon, argon, krypton, and xenon. These elements emit a radiant glow when electrified in a sealed glass tube. While normal neon lighting appears white, adding fluorescent powder like mercury produces vibrant hues.
Neon captures our attention because its mesmerizing glow triggers our visual cortex. Its vibrancy also evokes feelings of energy, warmth, and nostalgia. Psychologically, bright neon reminds us of festive spaces like carnivals, casinos, and theaters. For retro aesthetes, it may also conjure nostalgic memories of decades past.
Neon Fashion Through the Decades
Neon fashion first emerged in the 1960s mod era with neon accessories. But it truly came into its own in the 1980s and 90s when vibrantly colored clothing defined eras like neon workout gear in the 80s, and rave culture fashions in the 90s. Pop culture kept neon fashion present in movies like Tron and shows like Miami Vice.
Today, neon is cycling back into style in fun modern ways. Designers like Christopher Kane and Prabal Gurung use neon in bold new ways on the runway. Mainstream retailers carry neon clothing and accessories catering to younger trend-focused crowds.
Home Decor Applications for Neon
In home decor, the retro glow of neon creates instant ambiance. Key ways to incorporate neon decor elements into modern spaces include:
Neon Wall Art and Signs – Illuminated neon signs, marquees, and prints add pops of radiance to walls and galleries.
Neon Lighting Strips – Outline architecture or illuminate spaces with neon under cabinet, bed, or shelf lighting.
Neon Decor Objects – Barware, vases, planters, pillows, and table lamps in neon brights inject retro flair.
Uplighting – Strategic neon uplighting behind furnishings and architectural details creates a radiant mood.
Designing With Neon
Neon makes a delightfully bold statement, but restraint is needed to keep spaces from feeling overwhelming. Follow these tips:
- Incorporate neon through just 1-3 accent pieces in mostly neutral rooms.
- Ensure neon colors complement room palettes and flow through spaces.
- Use neon to highlight specific architectural or decorative details.
- Combine neon with wood, matte metals, and natural textures for balance.
- Opt for soft pastel neon shades for a more muted effect.
- Limit neon to targeted ambient lighting rather than illuminating entire rooms.
With thoughtful and sparing application, the allure and retro glow of neon can invigorate modern fashion looks and interiors with a mesmerizing pop of