Stylepoints: A bright idea

Summer fashion is always a little brighter -- and never more so than this season, thanks to a rainbow of glowing neon options.

By SARA GLASSMAN, Star Tribune

June 27, 2012 — 6:12pm

Summer fashion is always a little brighter -- and never more so than this season, thanks to a rainbow of glowing neon options.

Shades of hot pink, citron yellow and lime green are everywhere this season. There are so many ways to wear the eye-catching trend that there's no reason to be color-shy. Here are ideas for making the boldest fashion statement.

ADD ACCESSORIES

If you're looking to dabble in any trend, the easiest way is always through accessories. A pop of color with a belt, handbag or shoes is simple and affordable. You can wear all white, khaki or black, and a splash of citron will really make your outfit wake up.

WEAR IT WITH NEUTRALS

Choosing a single piece of neon clothing -- shorts, a T-shirt, pants or a blazer -- and pairing it with black, white, ivory, gray, khaki or just about anything allows your outfit to have focus. You'll want to wear the bright hue on a part of your body that you're comfortable flaunting.

GO FOR IT!

Color-blocking has never been brighter. Take all of the solid fluorescents you have, and wear them together. Try a bright blue dress with an even brighter pink belt or a citron blouse with green shorts and a hot pink handbag. You'll definitely stand out in the crowd.

A look from the Nanette Lepore spring 2012 runway.

Nicole by Nicole Miller sandals, $20, J.C. Penney stores and www.jcpenney.com.

H&M ring, www.hm.com.

Candie's cross-body handbag, $49, Kohl's, www.kohls.com.

ELLE Cuffed Denim Capris, $48, Kohl's.

Payless watch, www.payless.com.

Olsenboye Tank, $20, J.C. Penney and www.jcpenney.com.

PICK OF THE WEEK:

LACE DRESS, BY AX ARMANI EXCHANGE

Nothing says summer like a little white dress. This $128 lace fit and flare dress from AX Armani Exchange (Mall of America) is an easy-to-wear style that works for day or night. Yes, it's also available in black, but wearing white provides instant summer cool. Pair it with any other color (neon, included) or black for a classic look.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS:

FRIDAY

Statement Boutique grand opening: Giveaways, refreshments and a fall preview, along with 25 percent off storewide.

Through Sunday, 212 3rd Av. N., Mpls., 651-808-7663.

SATURDAY

Tilly's grand opening: Gift cards for the first 100 shoppers, live KDWB broadcast (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and a Vans Warped tour ticket giveaway (6 p.m.).

9:30 a.m., Mall of America, Bloomington, www.tillys.com.