Neon to the Nines

It was 1986. I was nine. Neon was king. It was on everything -- clothes, accessories, Trapper Keepers, cars. It was a symbol of the excesses of the time. Loud. Obnoxious. Visually assaulting. I loved it. Wore it with abandon. My little fashion-maven self wanted to keep up with the style, and, oh boy, did I ever. And, I have evidence too -- a photo of me trying out my contemplative model pose in a plaid neon jumper and the other a loud fuchsia and canary yellow fantastical dance outfit with my just as enthusiastic dance hands.

And, of course, since fashion styles are cyclical, neon has found its way back into my style storybook a quarter of my life later. Its style is more subtle now and the fabrics and constructions it colors are much more suitable to our modern times. Although I thought I had left neon back in the 80s, I still definitely have an interest in its timeless audaciousness.

Here is a sampling of what I've found to be respectable neon looks that can be pulled off by a 35 year old wishing to be nine again.

Neon Fashion

Bright Tweed Shift, Pim + Larkin, Piperlime, $44.99; Embroidered A-Line Tank, Anthropologie, $58; Sunkissed Shorts, Gap, $20; Blue Skinny Jeans, J.Crew, $34.99

 Neon Accessories

Blu Bijoux Neon Yellow Hexagon Earrings, Max & Chloe, $14; Blue Bijoux Neon Bib Necklace, Max & Chloe, $39; Patent Perforated Flats, Gap, $29.96