The Meaning and Popularity Behind "It Is What It Is" Neon Signs | Home Decor Trend

The Meaning and Popularity of "It Is What It Is" Neon Signs

In recent years, "It is what it is" neon signs have become an increasingly popular home decor item and pop culture reference. But what is the meaning and appeal behind this cryptic phrase rendered in glowing lights?

"It Is What It Is" As a Phrase

"It is what it is" has been used colloquially as a phrase for accepting situations that cannot be changed. It expresses the sentiment that while a circumstance may not be ideal, it's the current reality that has to be acknowledged and dealt with. The phrase denotes a certain stoic acceptance of the state of things without trying to fight circumstances that are beyond one's control.

While the exact origin of the saying is unclear, many attribute it to sports figures using it in interviews to write off defeats or setbacks. It was likely popularized in sports press conferences where athletes used the terse, cryptic phrase to move on from losses. The invariant nature of "it is what it is" lent itself to wider use over time as both a phrase of commiseration and resilience.

The Appeal of "It Is What It Is" Signs

The appeal behind "It is what it is" signs stems from a few factors. First, the mystique and slight ambiguity of the phrase itself grabs interest and invites contemplation of a deeper meaning. Second, the phrase has a certain universality in acknowledging that not everything goes according to plan. The saying reflects the common experiences of disappointment, frustration, and the necessity of accepting realities outside of one's control.

There is also an element of wry humor or consolation in responding to life's trials and tribulations with the pithy, matter-of-fact attitude encapsulated by "It is what it is." For many, the phrase serves as a mantra of resilience to accept unfortunate realities. Rendering the maxim in bright, eye-catching neon only adds to its power as a display piece spreading a message of taking life's ups and downs in stride.

Pop Culture References

"It is what it is" signs have made their way into films, TV shows, and music as they become a full-fledged pop culture trend. Some examples include:

• The Netflix drama Ozark featuring a bar called "It Is What It Is."
• Rapper Drake using the phrase on an album.
• Comedian Bill Burr titling his podcast episode "It Is What It Is Bill."
• Singer Miley Cyrus getting "It Is What It Is" tattooed.
• The movie Fracture starring Anthony Hopkins displaying the sign.

Through pop culture, "It is what it is" signs have become a cultural phenomenon beyond just quirky home decor. The phrase is now emblematic of a certain attitude towards life's unpredictable nature.

Design Variations

"It is what it is" signs come in a range of materials, colors, and designs. Some options include:

• Neon - Vibrant neon tubing bent into the shape of script letters.
• Marquee - Bulb LED signs reminiscent of theater marquees.
• Reverse - Light lettering against a darker opaque background.
• Monochrome - Single neon color like red, blue, purple, or pink.
• Multicolor - Different neon colors for each word or letter.
• Custom shapes - Curved, circular, or asymmetrical shaped signs.

The bare-bones, minimalist nature of "It is what it is" lends itself well to the luminous simplicity of neon. The saying rendered in glowing, exposed neon tubing makes it an artistic centerpiece. The striking luminosity draws the eye while allowing the meaning behind the phrase to resonate.

Where to Use "It Is What It Is" Signs

This versatile maxim lends itself well to decor displays in different environments:

Home Bars

An "It is what it is" neon light makes a conversational focal point in home bars or lounges. The phrase reflects a certain cavalier attitude while paying homage to retro bar culture when neon signs were all the rage.

Living Rooms

This eye-catching neon blends color, illumination, and thoughtful messaging to enhance modern living room decor. Position it behind sofas, mounted on walls, or resting on media consoles to spice up the atmosphere.

Dorm Rooms

In a dorm setting, an "It is what it is" sign adds an element of gravitas and contemplation. The phrase takes on an inspirational meaning for students learning to take life's highs and lows in stride during a formative time.

Man Caves

Neon signs naturally lend a certain masculine aura to basements, garages, and other recreational rooms in a home. The stoic maxim makes a fitting mantra for the mellow, laid-back vibe of a man cave.

Bars and Restaurants

An "It is what it is" sign references retro bar culture and immediately catches patron's eyes with its luminous glow. The phrase conveys going with the flow and taking life as it comes, making it fitting for locales of social gathering and libations.

With its nostalgic allure and resilient sentiment, "It is what it is" has rightfully claimed its space in the pantheon of pithy pop culture phrases. It captures an attitude of acceptance and reconciliation with a certain wry stoicism. Immortalized in neon lights, the maxim makes a decorative statement that sparks intrigue and contemplation.

FAQs

What is the meaning behind "It is what it is"?

The phrase "It is what it is" expresses accepting circumstances that can't be changed. It's about acknowledging reality even if it's not ideal and not fighting uncontrollable situations.

Where did "It is what it is" come from?

The exact origin is unclear, but the phrase became popularized through athletes using it in interviews to accept defeats or setbacks with stoic resilience.

Why are "It is what it is" neon signs popular?

The appeal lies in the mystique of the phrase, its universal relatability, and the ironic humor of responding to life's ups and downs with blithe acceptance.

What are some design variations?

Signs come in different materials like neon, LED, and reverse lighting, and different colors like monochrome, multicolor, and customized shapes.

Where are good places to display these signs?

They make great conversation pieces in home bars, living rooms, dorms, man caves, and commercial businesses like bars and restaurants.