Neon nights

Bright, blinding yet seductive, the neon palette is perhaps the most challenging of colours to wear. And it takes a certain sartorial bravado and playfulness to pull it off with a stylish flourish.  

Designer Jyoti Sachdev Iyer shares, “Call them eye-catching, hot or dangerous… neon colours are going to rule 2017. The newest colours, which are intended to highlight your bright personality, will include acid greens, muted magentas, racy yellows, spicy tangerines and electric cobalts. Also, since neon colours are extremely bold and eye-catching, they tend to make anyone look larger than they are. If you have a pear figure, use neon colours on your upper body. For apple shaped figures, using neon on the bottom will work. Pick the neon shade you love most of all and one that goes well with your skin tone and hair colour. For example, if your face is pale, then yellow and orange will not look good on you. Instead, you should go for brighter tones like pink or blue.”  

Designer Pallavi Mohan, on the other hand, suggests, “This year is all about comfort dressing. Easiest way to flaunt this sexy hue is through donning sexy loungewear in pop colours like lemonade, lime and greenery, and layer it up in interesting manners. One can also try out masculine-feminine juxtaposition-inspired silhouettes while playing with neon separates. For instance, a neon bralet can add the right amount of drama to a slouchy suit separate. Swimwear and beachwear in pop colours are a must.”

Designer Karn Malhotra loves the peppy, fun vibe of neons. “These shades go really well with women who are confident, experimental and never shy from carrying a bold edgy look,” he says, adding, “The best way to flaunt neon is by pairing it with black or white. Pick a standout top with a fitted pant or a skirt and pair it with conservative footwear like a boot. If you are aiming for a subtle look, then colour blocking is a fail-safe option. Keep your accessories and make-up as simple as possible and voila, you are set!”

Offering a practical suggestion, designer Pria Kataaria Puri says, “If you don’t know which colour will suit you, then try small neon accessories first. A neon belt or a clutch, or just your favourite neon nail polish can give you a hint if the colour suits you or not. Taking a cue from this, go ahead and buy your beloved neon colour outfit. One of the greatest positive qualities of this colour spectrum is that it allows you to be highly imaginative and experimental. While every other person will jump at the first chance to utilise their colour blocking skill, you can try and get your hands on neon prints. A printed mini kaftan dress will brighten your holiday wardrobe. For the biggest fashion risk-taker, all neon is a showstopper. Wear it from head-to-toe in the same colour family. Try a neon dress with neon shoes. Be bold! Lastly, don’t forget to have fun with it. Neon is meant to be crazy and wild!”