Glow Stick

Neon colors popped up all over the spring runways from slouchy blazers at Alexander Wang to flouncy dresses at Dior and bold silks at ADAM. Betsey Johnson mixed bright florals with even brighter solids while Christopher Kane sliced vivid organza into crisp 3D petal dresses.

Betsey Johnson and Christian Dior neon runway looks.

Bright pink silk at the ADAM show.

Looks from the S/S 2009 Christopher Kane and Alexander Wang collections.

Translating these looks from runway into reality, I was thinking about how best I like my neon. I love bright prints and neons done slightly 80s - electric blue heels, plastic baubles and campfire-inspired bracelets, short shorts and punky belts. I also love shocking hues rendered in modern, sporty silhouettes, like an updated lightweight parka and pants that tow the line between couchbound sweats and runway harems. Or you can go electric ladyland in colorful, feminine dresses and bouncy tiered skirts with a classic flat or structured bag updated in vibrantly colored rubber or shrunken in size and shaken up in shade.

Clockwise from left: Dayton Anorak, $79.50 (available at dELiA's); Turkish Ikat Scarf, $38 (available at Echo); Mary Meyer Sahara Pants, $101 (available at Revolve Clothing); Jelly Reva Flat, $95 (available at Tory Burch); Kate Spade Terrytown - Betty Handheld Mini Satchel, $295 (available at Nordstrom).

Turquoise and Yellow Three Row Pyramid Belt, $24 (available at Hot Topic).

From left: Braided Satin Cord Bracelet w/ Single Charm, $24 (available at Ettika); Mcthune Pump, $110 (available at Aldo); Rich & Skinny Perky Shorts, each $115 (available at Kitson); Unisex Flex Terry Headband, $6 (available at American Apparel).

Clockwise from top left: Necklace, $29.90 (visit H&M for stores); BR Monogram Backless Dress, $225 (available at Banana Republic); Bright Wool Cheetah Square Scarf, $58 (available at Echo); Rory Beca Layered Skirt, $299 (available at Shopbop).

Forget rose-colored glasses, I'm looking at the world through fluorescent shades.