Shades that slap you silly are making a comeback.

They fled from the ‘80s to the spring runways of designers such as Nanette Lepore and Cynthia Rowley.

Now, neon colors are coming to living rooms. Today’s neons aren’t timid. Thanks to technology, colors are brighter, bolder and more intense than before, says Leatrice Eiseman, director of the Pantone Color Institute.

Eiseman says the finish of bright products may create hesitation for some homeowners.

Shiny surfaces make colors pop more than merino wool. Eiseman suggests shopping for lively pieces with luster-less texture such as wool throw pillows or cotton curtains. She also says prints that combine neutrals with neons give the untrained eye a bit of color and then a bit of rest. “There’s this peripheral vision thing going on,” says Eiseman, who credits the cosmetics industry for dropping neon-esque colors back into our lives. “Some people might say ‘ugh’ to neons, but if you see it enough, it enters your realm of vision and you begin to say, ‘That’s not so bad.’”

Some home retailers, such as CB2, are already betting that love for neons will come back in no time.

“Color has always been a key part of CB2,” says Ryan Turf, chief merchandising manager. He was surprised by strong sales of a bright pink, high-gloss side table called the City Slicker.

“We have always seen strong sales in bright-colored product, but each season we do see upward shifts in demand for certain specific colors.”

Some of CB2’s brightest colors this year include atomic yellow, grass and pool blue.

Erin Loechner, an art and design blogger, is a fan of colorful groupings and garlands. She created a DIY dinosaur garland in a host of hot hues for a home office that was featured on HGTV.com.

“Displaying bright, bold accents in your home is a subtle way to incorporate happy hues,” Loechner says. “By surrounding yourself with objects you love in your favorite tones, you can subconsciously create an environment that’s enjoyable for you and your family.”