Conquer Your Fear of Neon with These No-Fail Styling Ideas

Neon decor has a reputation for being a little outrageous and undeniably bold. Here's how to successfully embrace the trend in your own home.

Neon colors have an outsize personality and the wattage to match. Popularized by '90s fashion, electric shades of green, orange, pink, and yellow are back to energize interiors in a fresh way. This time around, we're seeing neons paired with earthy counterpoints (like pale wood, stoneware, kraft paper) that tone them down for a sophisticated edge.

Pink shelving and neon supplies against wooden wall
Jacob Fox

Neon colors add interest to neutral spaces, but a little goes a long way, so use them sparingly. Small accents like a vase or trim add a jolt of pure energy that can transform a room. Group items in a neon palette into a vignette to add bold color to a sofa table. Layer punchy throw pillows on a neutral sofa for a small dose of neon that won't overwhelm. Or paint the outer edges of bookshelves in a vivid neon shade to instantly amp up the energy.

Although bright neon can be intimidating, the results always offer big impact. Here are some of our favorite ways to add a splash of neon to a space.

01 of 07

Neon Orange Pendant Light

Hanging light bulb with orange cord
Marty Baldwin

Give a utilitarian room (think: laundry room or pantry) an unexpected pop. This neon orange pendant includes six inches of cord and a silicone socket cover. It's also available in nine other colors, plus custom lengths and configuration options.

Buy It: Silicone Single Ceiling Pendant, $80, Color Cord Company

02 of 07

Neon Orange Container

Orange container for jewelry
Marty Baldwin

Use this bright glass receptacle for easily misplaced items. The matching lid helps maintain a clutter-free look atop a desk or entryway table. Available in seven colors, these neon containers range in size from 3.25 inches to 5.25 inches in diameter.

03 of 07

Stackable Neon Trays

neon trays
Marty Baldwin

These high-octane trays highlight anything you put on them. The clear acrylic sides reflect the neon bottoms to create a glowing effect. Measuring 11 by 7 inches, they're right-sized for storing cosmetics, markers and pens, or small office supplies.

04 of 07

Neon Patterned Pillows

pink, green and gold patterned pillows
Marty Baldwin

Ikat pattern gets a wake-up call in neon hues. These 20-by-20-inch pillows bring a fresh burst of energy to your living space or bedroom. Featuring a polyester cover and a feather filling, they're sold as a set of two in the same color. Pair with neutral furnishings to keep the pillows in the spotlight.

05 of 07

Neon Wood Bowls

neon geometric bowls
Marty Baldwin

These hand-painted wooden bowls can add pretty and practical storage all over the house. The miniature size (1 1/4 inches tall, 2 1/4 inches in diameter) suits either olives or jewelry. They're sold as a set of three that includes neon orange, green, and pink color-blocked designs.

Buy It: Neon Wood Bowls, $24, Etsy

06 of 07

Neon Wall Art

orange and wood arrow wall art
Marty Baldwin

This arrow wall charm makes the ideal addition to a gallery wall. The die-cut wood design is handpainted with polka dots, stripes, and a neon arrowhead. The 8-inch charm comes pre-punched with a hole and ready to hang.

07 of 07

Vibrant Seating

neon green midcentury chair with dark walnut legs
Courtesy of Houzz

A classic midcentury shape is reimagined in neon green with these dining room chairs. Sold as a set of four, they sit on walnut wood legs, which make the electric-hued seats pop even more. The molded plastic design easily wipes clean for quick after-dinner cleanup.

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