Neon: How to wear the 80s trend in 2018

The trend for fluoro-brights is officially back

From our wardrobes to interior design, the minimalist movement has ignited an obsession with neutral shades – but just as the seemingly endless summer is beginning to cool off, so is our proclivity towards plainness.

As we cast our thoughts forward to the incoming new fashion season, it’s time to prepare for yet another revival of Eighties style: neon.

A trend that was once associated with fluorescent gym gear and rave attire, this season garishly bright hues are infiltrating the mainstream and, unsurprisingly, we have time-honoured trendsetter Kim Kardashian to thank.

Kim Kardashian is an enthusiastic supporter of the neon trend (Getty Images for What Goes Around) (Getty Images for What Goes Aroun)

In the last few weeks alone, the reality TV star has worn everything from a lime green wig to match her Lamborgini, to a bubblegum pink mini dress, a tiny orange thong bikini, and even a plunging bodycon latex dress to, of all the events you could think of, a friend’s wedding.

She’s not the only A-lister to try out the trend though. Earlier this year, actress Sarah Paulson sported a neon, fringed Prada dress on the Ocean’s 8 red carpet, while more recently Blake Lively stepped out in a super-bright Versace suit.

Pink Diamante Embellished Stud Drop Earrings, £10, River Island

So, what does this mean for us mere mortals?

There’s no denying that this is a divisive trend, and while we in no way suggest you attempt to pull it off with the same gusto as Kimmy K, it’s true that you’re unlikely to be able to evade it for very long.

Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater, £19.99, Zara

A number of mainstream contemporary brands like Zara, Topshop and New Look are already tapping into it, with everything from lightweight knits to handbags and earrings in fruity hues of watermelon, lemon and lime.

Alas, if you pride yourself on your fashion know-how, you should be trying to figure out exactly how you’re going to incorporate it into your everyday wardrobe.

Shoulder Bag, £9.99, H&M

To avoid being the centre of attention, it’s best to eschew full-on fluoro and instead opt for easy points of entry like handbags, shoes and earrings.

Best worn with a darker tonal outfit of navy, black, grey or beige, neon accents will serve as a much-needed pop of colour without looking like a walking, talking fashion faux pas.

Fila, Mindblower, £80, Size

Black Neon Trim Cross Body Bag, £9.99, New Look