Apparel item with integrated lighting system

A method of manufacturing an apparel item, the method comprising:

• affixing a first light array to an inner panel of a first leg portion of a first apparel item;
• affixing a reflective material to an outer panel of the first leg portion adjacent to a joint area;
• affixing conductive traces to the inner panel;
• and
• affixing mesh material to the outer panel adjacent to the first light array.

An apparel item comprising:

• an inner panel and an outer panel;
• a first leg portion;
• at least a first light array affixed to the inner panel;
• a reflective material affixed to the outer panel of the first leg portion adjacent to a joint area;
• conductive traces affixed to the inner panel;
• and
• a mesh material affixed to the outer panel and positioned adjacent to the first light array.