After its invention in France, neon signage landed on U.S. soil in the 1920s, initially providing showy outdoor advertising for car dealerships before it was adopted by a range of other businesses. Throughout the following decades, elaborate neon displays lit up big cities and small towns all across the country, welcoming customers toward diners, bars, roadside motels, and other establishments. Neon signs originally used gases like neon and argon to produce their vivid glow and often contained harmful metals like lead and mercury. Today, LED lights, which are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, are most commonly used to create the rainbow of luminous color seen in neon signs. Whether you go custom or purchase something off the shelf, treat your neon sign as a focal point of the room. Mount it in a prominent spot, such as above the sofa, at the end of a hallway, or over the fireplace. In more traditionally styled rooms or formal spaces, it’ll stand out as a funky accent that draws eyes and sparks conversation. Repeat the sign’s color throughout the room using accessories like throw pillows and other wall decor to pull the look together. Shop the neon signs below to showcase this fun throwback trend in your home. Buy It: Trinx Hello Gorgerous LED Neon Sign, $113 (originally $255), Wayfair Buy It: Room Essentials Neon Wall Sign White ($25, Target) Buy It: Chill LED Wall Light ($69, Pottery Barn) Buy It: Custom Neon Sign ($88-$550, Etsy) Buy It: Monstera Plant Neon Sign ($70, Etsy) Buy It: Pillowfort Rainbow Neon Wall Decor ($40, Target)
