Why did neon signs go out of fashion?

There was a time when neon signs ruled the night. Walk through any downtown in the 60s, 70s, even the 80s, and you'd see streets glowing in pinks, blues, and reds buzzing with life. They didn’t just light up buildings; they lit up culture. From vintage diners to late-night motels, neon was the language of the city. But somewhere along the way, the lights started fading.

The Shift Away from Neon

Neon signs didn’t disappear overnight. It was a slow fade. As cities grew and technology evolved, businesses started looking for cheaper, more efficient options. Enter LEDs. They cost less, used less power, and didn’t need the delicate glass tubes that true neon signs rely on. It made sense for businesses, why spend more for something that needs special care and skilled hands to repair? And just like that, neon started disappearing from storefronts.

But Neon Never Lost Its Cool

Even though you saw less of it outside, neon never really died. It became a mood. A vibe. A memory. While it left the streets, it started showing up in art, music videos, movie scenes places where nostalgia thrives.

Then came the era of personal branding. Instagram walls, boutique cafés, home studios. Suddenly everyone wanted that soft glow again not to sell something, but to say something. That’s how the good vibes only neon sign became a thing. It wasn’t about advertising anymore. It was about energy, personality, and expression.

Neon is Back Just Not the Way You Think

The truth is, neon didn’t go out of fashion. It simply changed lanes. Today, what we call neon signs are usually made with LED flex tubing same glow, less fuss. They’re safer, lighter, and easier to hang anywhere.

But the feeling? Still the same.

You see them at weddings, in living rooms, inside cool co-working spaces glowing with words that matter to people. And they’re not trying to sell you a burger or a motel room anymore. They’re just there to set the mood.

So Why Did They Go?

They didn’t. Not really.

Neon just took a step back to evolve. And now it’s everywhere again — just more personal, more creative, and more connected to how we express ourselves.

Because no matter how much changes, some things always come back.

And sometimes, they glow even brighter the second time around.