Bright is Beautiful

The fashion trends of spring are in, and the inner child in all of us can leap for joy about one in particular: bright colors. This season, bright colors such as yellow, hot pink, neon blue, green, orange, and red can all be appreciated in their true form. They have been seen on runways, on the red carpet, and everywhere in between.

We know what you may be thinking, but don’t worry, this is a trend that can absolutely be done at all ages (done a bit differently, of course). Plus, it’s one that we have seen before (remember the highlighter-esque colors that we adorned ourselves in back in the ’80s?), so it is a bit familiar. Hey, you may even find something in the very back of your closet that you can pull out again!
We realize that bright may sound a little scary, but don’t worry, although it’s not for the faint of heart, it is also not just for those ultra-hipsters with a degree in design. Here are a few tips on making this spring fashion wearable for all ages, and all personality types.

Be bold. It may sound simple but wearing bright colors is more about confidence than anything else. Be bold by wearing blocks of colors. Think about pairing a bright orange skirt with a yellow top. Be sure to keep some neutrals in between like a tan or black belt to keep things looking polished. Keep in mind that pairing a bright top with a bright bottom is going to be a very young look, so if you are older in age (over 35 years or so), try just one of the pieces with a neutral top. Also, Harper’s Bazaar warns that if you are going to wear hot pink with equally bold colors, be sure to avoid a clownish look by keeping the silhouettes straight and narrow all the way down.

Be choosy. Bright colors such as teal, red, orange, yellow, pink, and blue are all going to make a statement without you doing anything to them. But if you aren’t comfortable pairing large blocks of color, just choose one. Maybe you choose a skirt, a tailored pant, a dressy tank top, or a fabulous flat or heel – either way, know you are doing the trend justice.

It’s okay to be scared. We understand that it’s hard to be the standout in the crowd if you aren’t used to, or a fan of, the attention. And, believe us, you will be getting attention if you are wearing bright colors. But there are ways to incorporate, and pull off, the vivid look without going full-blown outfit. The following are a few of those ways.

Harper’s Bazaar advises using hot pink lipstick, for example. (They recommend something bold like MAC’s Show Orchid.)
Another option is buying a bright colored bag. Even if you are draped in black, a bright blue tote, for example, can have you turning heads in no time.
You can also say fashionable with a statement, bright piece of jewelry. Not only will it look great but it will also help you transition outfits from day to night. Take a black tank and a pair of jeans and pair it with a bold turquoise necklace, for example, and you’ll be getting compliments like you’ve never got before.
Accessories are an easy in for those a bit timid to the bright neon waters. Try purchasing a small clutch or a neon belt, advises Harper’s Bazaar. Another tip? “[Neon] flawlessly complements khaki,” they say.

Watch the silhouette. Bright colors speak for themselves, so make sure you are wearing them right. Flatter your figure by showing off your arms, legs, or whichever feature you like best. It’s important to know that because the colors are so vibrant, the less material you are wearing, the better. Think a light blazer or a short shift dress paired with tights.

If you aren’t sure which silhouette suits you best, you can also use the Internet as a source for your fashion questions by seeing how others have done the silhouettes well (or not). Look for people that you think have a similar figure as you do and go from there. A good stop before choosing is visit Street Fashion Blogs or celeb-obsessed magazine.

Never underestimate the small stuff. So maybe you feel great in your new hot pink mini skirt but you can only pair it with black. That’s okay. A good way to take the look one step further, however, is to wear a bright nail polish, says Cosmopolitan. Not only is this option really non-committal but it’s also really fun. Try a bright orange or a purple and show everyone just how good of a time you can have.

Another great option is to include some bright lingerie into your day. Although you may be the only one who knows it’s there, there’s no doubt that it will help brighten your day. Plus, you’ve got to reward yourself for making it through the winter blues somehow. Why not do so with a pair of bright green panties?

No matter which path you choose – from the boldest to the smallest of accessories – remember that fashion is supposed to be fun. Bright colors fits so well into the theme of enjoying life for the simplest of pleasures. So next time you are at the store looking for an outfit, choose a standout piece of jewelry or a bright colored article of clothing that makes you smile. At the end of the day if it makes you happy, that’s all that matters.