Neons and Neutrals

Rachel Bilson

One of the biggest trends we've seen for this spring and summer is bright, neon colors - for me, its like a flashback to growing-up, with all the hot pinks, neon yellows, electric blues and citrus oranges. As a fan of pink in any shade, I have been wanting to add neon hot pink flashes to my wardrobe ever since I first saw them grace the runways, months ago.

The question with bright neon colors is often, how to wear shades that eye-scorchingly bright. The answer: with neutrals. Pick one piece in your favorite electric hue, and build the rest of the outfit around it - in black, white, tan, nude, anything subdued. One neon accessory is often more than enough to punch up an outfit and avoid looking like an extra in a 90's music video - plus the neon colors just look so good with neutral shades - its like they were meant to be.

Left to Right, Top to Bottom: Streetfsn Blog, Christopher Kane heels, polka-dot Marni wallet, Clare Vivier pouch, Lanvin heels, Meredith Wendell straw bag.

 The Christopher Kane heels are a perfect example of how far just a little neon can go - that small green piping draws the eye in and makes the shoes stand out. Neon details on a straw or woven bag for summer are a pretty perfect combination, as well.

Caroline's Mode and Elle

It's hard to see, but I love the way the girl on the right incorporated just a tiny hint of neon into her look with the skinny belt. That citrus yellow-green color looks fantastic with the camel jacket. 

Left to Right, Top to Bottom: Fashion Squad, Marc by Marc Jacobs tassel bag, Kate Spade flats, Marc by Marc Jacobs tote

Now that girl has the minimalistic look down - spiced up with a bit of color in that bright bag, and she is perfectly on trend for the season.

Harper's Bazaar, Tumblr and Aubrey RD

Don't the neutrals just make the neon color pop even brighter and bolder? They are the perfect accompaniment to these electrifying hues for spring and summer.