A while back, I posted a mini-interview with StitchJones and the amazing Neon Collaboration that Cory from Indie.Knits, Ariel of Stariel Knits, and I are doing. All three of us were kids in the 90s, when neon was seen everywhere. Anyone who was a kid in the 90s remembers Lisa Frank and all the bright dayglo clothing, accessories, and toys. Well, neon has come back, and I couldn't be more thrilled. :oD
However, how does one wear neon without going overboard? Is there an overboard? From what we've discussed, we definitely have different ideas about this. Here are a few of my thoughts.
Some people would probably say this outfit has too much brightness going on. I think that this outfit works because the intensity of the two bright items differ, and the fact that they are contrasting colors allows this to work. I actually love this combo so much, and bought these two items for the purpose of wearing together. ;op
In this case, I felt that these bright red pants were so "in your face," that I decided I couldn't wear another bright on top, as well. However, a statement top in neutral colors goes well, as it gives extra visual interest to go with the brights. Another option, if you wanted to have less attention on the pants, would be to wear an oversized black, tan, or navy sweater.
This is the first outfit I'm showing that most people would likely feel more inclined to wear, if they were a bit more timid about wearing bright colors. The outfit screamed 90s to me when I first saw these pieces in stores this year. I couldn't not get them for nostalgia sake, and I love it. However, the bright is toned down a ton with the jean skirt neutral, and the sweater (which is similar in color to the brighter tank, but definitely darker hued).
A last great option, especially if you wanted to go as bright as visually possible, is to throw it on as an accessory! A fun accessory is small enough to not overpower anything, but definitely adds visual interest and so, so cheerful!
BTW, that hat is going live on this blog tomorrow. Check back in, as it will be a free pattern that knits up super quick, so if you needed a few last minute gifts, you're in luck. I started on this final sample (this is actually my third attempt to get it just right...) on Monday, and I have three samples done, already! This sample was done with less than one skein of Madelinetosh Home in the colorway Fluoro Rose. Two skeins were able to make one slouchy version, one beanie style, and one color blocked beanie style hat.
Check out what Cory has to say about wearing brights here, and Ariel's thoughts here.