Lamp Shades

Lamp shades for every lamp type

Not all shades fit all lamps, so it helps to shop by type. Table lamp shades tend to be smaller and more decorative, ideal for bedside tables and side units. Floor lamp shades are bigger, built to spread light across a whole room. Ceiling lamp shades and pendant shades sit above eye level, so they can afford to be a bit bolder in colour or pattern without feeling ‘too much’. Check your fitting before you buy - easy-fit, clip-on, spider, and duplex all attach differently, and getting it wrong means the shade won't sit properly on the lamp.

Explore lamp shades for living rooms

Living rooms need lamp shades that work for both daytime shine and evening wind-down. Pale fabric shades in linen or cotton give an inviting, even glow that suits reading corners and sofa-side lamps alike. If your living room already has strong colours or patterns elsewhere, a plain drum or empire shade keeps things balanced. For a more decorative look, rattan and woven shades add welcome texture to every space.

Lamp shades for bedrooms

Bedside lighting should feel calm, so bedroom lamp shades tend to be softer - think muted tones, pleated fabric or frosted glass. Smaller table lamp shades work well either side of the bed, while a single floor lamp with a fabric shade can double as a reading light without the glare of an overhead fitting.

Statement lamp shades

Fancy something a bit more out-there? A statement lamp shade is the way to go. Bold colours, oversized drums, patterned cut-outs or metallic finishes all turn a lamp into a real feature piece. These work best as a single standout item in an otherwise simple room, so the shade gets the attention rather than competing with busy décor.

Lamp shade shapes and materials

Drum shades are the most versatile shape, working across table, floor and ceiling lamps in almost any style of room. Empire shades taper in towards the top and suit more traditional lamp bases. Coolie shades are wider and more angular, often used for a mid-century look. Fabric shades (cotton, linen, velvet) diffuse light softly; glass and metal shades throw more direct light and suit a modern finish, and rattan or woven shades add natural texture.

Lamp Shades FAQs

How do I know what size lamp shade I need?

Measure the bottom diameter, top diameter and slant height of your current shade, plus the fitting type. These four measurements are enough to find a matching or similar replacement.

What's the difference between easy-fit and clip-on lamp shade fittings?

Easy-fit shades clip directly onto the bulb holder and are the most common fitting on modern pendants. Clip-on shades grip onto the bulb itself, usually on candle-style bulbs, and are common on smaller table lamps and wall lights.

Can I use any lamp shade on any lamp?

Only if the fitting matches. A shade designed for one fitting type (easy-fit, clip-on, spider or duplex) won't mount securely on a lamp with a different fitting, so always check before buying.

Do I need to worry about the bulb I use with a fabric lamp shade?

Yes, check the maximum wattage listed on the shade or lamp before fitting a bulb. LED bulbs run much cooler than old halogen or incandescent bulbs, so they're the safest choice for fabric, paper or silk shades and reduce the risk of scorching or discolouration over time.