Rightly or wrongly, neon isn’t a colour category that has, historically, been associated with sophistication. For me, it has long been synonymous with dodgy ‘rave’ themed university nights out and the T-shirts in Tammy Girl that my mum never let me buy. But, as we all know, fashion designers love nothing more than a sartorial challenge, and this season we saw highlighter hues given the elevated treatment. And you know what? I am on board.
At Alexander McQueen’s SS22 show the neon trend manifested in bright pink suiting, while at Molly Goddard it was all about neon yellow tulle styled with faded, wide leg jeans. Even fashion classicists, such as Emilia Wickstead and Roksanda, experimented with paintbox brights, resulting in long-sleeved midi dress rendered in tangerine oranges and lime greens and shocking pink base-layers paired with flowing satin skirts.
But, away from the runway, how do we practically incorporate this statement-making trend into our wardrobes? There’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ approach here, and it totally depends on your personal style, however for me it’s all about balancing out bright hues with crisp tailoring, neutral colourways and minimalist accessories. For example, COS’s neon green tee instantly adds interest to a trench coat and dark denim, and Christopher John Rodger’s amazing orange trousers take on a more everyday spin with a pinstripe shirt.
So if you’re a little on the fence about this trend (fair) take a second to browse my spring 2022 neon outfits and, you never know, you may just change your mind. Scroll down to see and shop my looks.
Style Notes: A colour-pop tee is one of the easiest entry points to the neon trend. Just take COS’ lime green top and pair it with dark denim and a trench coat.
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Style Notes: I’m a big fan of statement trousers, and I’ve seen so many brightly colour styles around this season. Christopher John Rodgers is definitely leading the charge with his neon offering, and these bright orange trousers are right at the top of my wishlist. Balance out the brightness with a classic pinstripe shirt and neutral accessories.
Style Notes: Issey Miyake’s iconic Pleats Please line will never go out of style, but when rendered in neon green it feels particularly fresh. COS’ orange crossbody bag makes for a stylish accompaniment.
Style Notes: There’s something very ’90s about this Jacquemus blazer and Sea skirt pairing, with the cream A-line midi offering a very pleasing counterpoint to the blazer’s fuchsia hue. A low-heeled sandals will finish the look off nicely.
