Wednesday Wishlist: So Bright

On loving that thing you hate...

If you were to stop me on the street to ask my opinion about neon colors (because, why wouldn't you?), my answer would always be the same: Ugh. No way. The worst. And I've been amazingly consistent about this feeling. I hated them as a child in the late 80s/early 90s, when they were literally everywhere; I hated them as an adult as they popped up in the 00s in wacky Harujuku looks. It's just one of those trends that I could immediately say "pass". But still...

Sometimes there is just something appealing about that thing you hate. Is it just me? I don't know, I've been looking for ways to freshen up some of the summer clothes that I've been wearing for months, and a little pop of neon is feeling really interesting right now. I'm talking a splash. Just a hint of eye-searing brightness. Accessories are perfect -- punchy shoes, a bright bag, or bit of bold jewelry can be just the thing to perk up your warm weather clothes as we make the long, sweaty march towards Labor Day.

I really love all of these pieces, and I'm seriously considering adding a few to my wardrobe. But what's crazy is that if you asked me how I feel about neon today I'd still say, "Ugh, hate it." Except when I love it.

from l to r:

Maisy Handbag ($133) -- I love this traditional satchel shape in an unexpected color. I think it's perfect for work in all but the most conservative of offices.

Neon Knot Bib Necklace ($22) -- inherently cool simply because it comes from Furbish, the little jewel-box of a design/decor shop run by the fabulous Jamie Meares. The mix of bright pink, blue, and yellow is almost too much, but somehow it works here.

Loren Hope Triangle Cuff in Neon Pink ($78) -- perfect if you just want to dip a toe in the neon pool. And possibly share your alle Illuminati.

Rebecca Minkoff Ginny Mesh Espadrilles ($49) -- these are on super sale and you should snatch them up. Throw them on with your bathing suit to hit the beach; just as good with white jeans and a simple top for late-night dinner and drinks.

Nada Sawaya Python Zip Top Pouch ($390) --  the perfect summer clutch. Me likey so, so much.

BaubleBar Festival Tassel Drops ($32) -- these come in a rainbow of bright colors, but the sunny yellow are my favorite.

Hello Holiday George Sandals ($15) -- easy chic sandals in the perfect Creamsicle shade of orange. 

Amrita Singh POP! Necklace ($10) -- I have this in pink and I adore it. Simple and sexy, perfect with a little tank, or perhaps peeking out of a collared shirt.

DROPS Neon Orange Square Unisex Watch ($130) -- I love a good boyfriend watch, and this bright rubber version is just fun. I'm pale all year long, but this would look amazing on with your summer tan.

Buy This: Perfect Black Romper

Last year I made an impulse purchase during one of Loft's fabulous flash sales: a silky black long-sleeved romper. I'd never worn one before, but it seemed like the kind of thing that would come in handy in a year-round summer climate. It was dirt cheap, so even if I only wore it a few times it would be a reasonable investment. Spoiler alert: I fucking loved it and wore the hell out of it.

This romper is so flattering and so versatile, I'm planning on buying another because it is just the easiest summer uniform. And you need to buy one immediately. Good news -- there are a number of great options in stores right now. Here are a few of my favorites:

from l to r:

Loft Pleated Romper ($80, but basically always on sale -- try to catch it when it is around $30-40)
Banana Republic Factory 3/4 Sleeve Romper ($80, but also often on sale)
Monrow Long Sleeve Romper ($158)
DvF Celeste Romper ($368)
Mikoh Hawaii Romper ($146)


Some tips for buying...

Trying on is a must. You want the fit to be loose but not baggy or sloppy, so try on your regular size and one bigger and one smaller to be sure. Make sure the shorts hit you in the right place. Check out your ass. Sometimes the line between relaxed and dumpy is dangerously thin.

Look for a waistline that blouses a bit. You have enough tight, uncomfortable clothes. This should feel comfortable enough that you can eat a great meal and throw back a few beers and not feel like you're stuffed into a sausage casing.

Stick with long sleeves. Full length or 3/4 are best for creating a great proportion. You're showing plenty of leg, so keeping your arms a bit covered gives balance to the overall look.

Pay attention to the neckline. You probably already know whether a round- or v-neck looks best on you/with your favorite jewelry -- stick with what works.

Think about care. Did I mention I wear this a lot? My Loft romper is machine washable, making it that much easier for me to keep it in regular rotation.

The possibilities for styling this great wardrobe staple are almost endless. Stay tuned for some of my favorite romper-based looks soon!