NEON FOR SPRING

Hi Deborah,

I’m 52 and just bought a cute yellow neon clutch for spring. My sister says I look silly and that neon is passé.

What do you think? ……. Susan

Hi Susan, You are right that neon is in style, but I’d have to agree with your sister that it is not the most flattering look for a gal over 40. Why? …

Read more about neon fashion

First of all, neon is very bright, and if it’s neon patent leather, it’s electrifying. That much contrast against mature skin and hair can look rather harsh, and frankly, tacky.

You may see movie stars wearing a neon color head to toe, but they have on a ton of make-up and they want to stand out on the red carpet. For the average woman, that much neon is too loud to be flattering.

The easiest way for anyone to wear neon is as an accent.  For example, try a cute, casual jacket with  sporty neon trim or a pair of  shoes with some small neon detail. Remember that neon communicates a casual, fun vibe. That’s why it is so popular as a color for athletic wear. It’s not a color you’d wear to work if you wanted to communicate authority or credibility.   

Susan, if you really want a neon bag you’d be better off with something like this yellow neon tote. It has a sportier feel than the formal clutch.

This tote is also rimmed in black to tone down the neon. It’s well suited to casual occasions like a trip to the beach, or the book club.

To learn the many other do’s and don’ts for wearing neon check out my post on the right way to wear acid tones.