Here’s a bright idea: switch the shade that comes with your traditional lamp to transform the look and feel of your space.
Lampshades come in all different shapes and sizes and suit different purposes. Some may be purely a fashion object, while others have a practical function to shed light on a dark corner or set a warm, homely lowly-lit ambiance.
For a true lightbulb moment, choose an eye-catching opulent print, plush fabrics of silk, velvet or cotton and vibrant colourways to add a pop to your interiors. Mix and match with an amalgamation of textures and eclectic designs in line with the latest penchant for clashing patterns.
On top of aesthetic, it is also worth considering the way the item will throw the light and the shadow patterns it will create – that is the whole point, after all. Drum silhouettes have an equal glow emitted upwards and down, while a cone shape encourages light to spread throughout and is favoured on ceiling and longer lamps. There are also bell shapes for a traditional look and the classic empire with a narrower pyramid shape. Your choice in colour also affects the light emitted as darker lampshades will not show the bulb as bright but can create a relaxed atmosphere.
You can choose to stay symmetrical by pairing a circular shape shade with a circular base (and square with square). Take that one step further by placing it on a furniture item of the coordinating shape or throw the rulebook out the window and play with shapes to your heart’s content.
To make your home feel intimate and inviting, shop the best lampshades below.
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H&M Large rattan lamp shade
These rattan lampshades from H&M have proven to be hugely popular and it’s clear why. First and foremost, the wicker fabric is the interiors trend of the moment that shows no signs of wavering and secondly, they allow a lot of light to shine through the room in a playful pattern.
Buy now £39.99, H&M
Organic Shaped Round Rattan Lampshade
Rattan is thriving in a major way in the interiors space but in this case, it is offered in a curvaceous, almost floral-like design that will transport you to warmer climes. The natural fabric means it will fit seamlessly with any colour palette and interiors style.
Buy now £95.00, Trouva
Dana Gibson Leopard Lamp Shade
The blue hue of this lampshade brings a calming energy to a space that will leave you feeling relaxed and soothed. The leopard design is also eye-catching and has a sumptuous feel that is more subtle that the classic print.
Buy now £68.00, Anthropologie
John Lewis & Partners Cassie Lampshade
While this may not be the most eye-catching shade in this list, we included this versatile option from John Lewis for the sheer quantity of colourways available that can match any palette. It has a luxe faux-silk construction that looks and feels expensive without the price tag to match.
Buy now £25.00, John Lewis
43cm Velvet Fringe Cylinder Lampshade Green
This elegant velvet lampshade is made all the more lavish with fun fringing. From the forest green colourway, to the warm light emitted, it will make a magnificent addition to your space. Also available in yellow and navy.
Buy now £24.75, La Redoute
HKliving Printed Cylinder Lamp Shade Stripes
Stripes are an easy way to add more texture into your home as you embark of your patterned interiors journey without yet braving some of the more challenging designs to mix and match. The combination of colours - yellow, orange and pink - are feel good and warm.
Buy now £38.99, Trouva
Tulip Pink Velvet Lamp Shades
With a touch of the Art Deco about it, Graham & Green has covered its luxury lampshade with a plush velvet fabric in an unmissable, attractive fuchsia hue. Taking the ambiance to the next level, it has a gold interior that reflects a hugely warming glow. There are different sizes available as well as carnelian and cobalt colourways.
Buy now £69.00, Graham & Green
WILD CARD Jacquard Large Petticoat - Butterscotch
If you are looking for the impact that only leopard print can bring, enter this lively lamp from House of Hackney. For a striking statement, let this lamp do the talking by setting alongside minimalistic furniture or for an eclectic look, throw a combination of patterns into the equation. This lamp has a timeless look.
Buy now £395.00, House of Hackney
Tulip and Bird graphic-print cotton lampshade 40cm
The Tulip and Bird pattern that makes up this lampshade was deigned by the legendary architect and designer Charles Francis Annesley Voysey in around 1882 and yet still looks as contemporary as ever. The matching wallpaper is available too.
Buy now £185.00, Selfridges
The Curious Department Dragonfly Swarm Velvet Lampshade
Set on brooches and jewellery, dragonflies have become objects of desires with their majestic shape and it is exactly for this reason that they take a starring role on this lampshade. Set on a shimmering velvet design, the print will make a statement, while the light that reflects off the gold metal lining will be brilliant and warm.
Buy now £115.00, Wolf & Badger
Matilda Goad Half Moon Scalloped Shade Cream
Matilda Goad’s instantly recognisable lampshades are on every interiors-related Instagram in our ‘Saved’ folder. The scalloped trim, black or cream lining and handmade raffia construction are soft and can be paired with any colour scheme.
Buy now £130.00, Matilda Goad
