Does the word ‘neon’ give you flashbacks to 1980s bad fashion montages, complete with teased hair and shoulderpads? Neon might not be a new color concept but it’s back in a big way, showing up in magazines, shopping malls and even on our shelves! I’ll give you a few ideas of what to knit or crochet with and how to wear these bright colors.

Louisa Harding Mila takes neon over the top by adding a sparkly thread to its interesting chainette construction. The colors are fresh and juicy, with names like Citron, Tomato, and Candy. I immediately thought of crocheted jewelry and whipped up this necklace. Monochromatic outfits are in, but who has an entire electric coral wardrobe? I paired my necklace with a matching tee instead to scale that trend down and added my signature skull cardigan. Branch out into neon slowly by incorporating it with your favorite pieces if you’re nervous.

The next level is a colorful accessory, like Greta’s Neon for Neon cowl knit in Manos del Uruguay Alegria. Since Alegria is bright and highly variegated, it’s perfect in small doses and solid colored clothing really helps it pop. Greta’s top already mirrors the great pink tones of the cowl, so a saturated aqua satchel pulls out the blues and provides contrast. Depending on the rest of your outfit, you can match or contrast small accessories like jewelry, bags, shoes or even nail polish with your neon knits. A perfect opportunity to consult your Color Grid!

Turn your knitting all the way to eleven with a neon sweater like Shiri Mor’s Helix Cabled Vest from the Vogue Knitting Winter 2012/13 issue. After all, we put so much work into our handmade garments, and highlighter yellow-green yarn is guaranteed to steal the spotlight! Let this sweater vest shine by pairing it with neutrals, but don’t be afraid to mix neutrals to add visual interest and break up your look–a black skirt and sweater veers close to suit territory. I love grey and black together for this outfit and chances are, you already have similar pieces in your closet. Matching neon triangle earrings keep the look fun and the focus up by your face.

Done right, neon can be modern, fresh and funky, not scary! For more neon-spiration, check out some of these blindingly gorgeous projects on Ravelry.

What do you think, are you ready to electrify your look with some neon knits? Will you go big or start small?