![\"Chandelier](\"https:\/\/www.lampsplus.com\/ideas-and-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Clip-On-Chandelier-Shades.png\")
Rule 1: Don’t Buy the Same Old Thing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Most lamps or fixtures can look good with a number of different shade shapes and styles. So don\u2019t just automatically buy a new shade that\u2019s exactly like the one you\u2019re replacing. Get ideas from our assortment of table lamps<\/a> or floor lamps<\/a>\u2014keeping an eye on the various shade types while you browse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A new shade can make a lamp look classy or simple, bigger or smaller, change it from traditional to contemporary, and add just the right amount of drama, flair or elegance.<\/p>\n\n\n In general, a shade\u2019s shape should follow the contour of a lamp. This is not a hard and fast rule, but it holds true in most cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, for example, if the base has curves, go with a curved shade shape. If a base is straight, choose a shade with straight edges, even if they\u2019re angled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some other shape rules-of-thumb to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The way a shade is shaped can also be a factor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shades have traditionally been white, simply because they let the most light through and are the most functional at illuminating an entire room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But color definitely has a role. Black lamp shades<\/a> or colored shades direct more light down, adding drama and pools of light throughout a room for a sophisticated lighting statement. Or you could mix and match shade colors in a room for added visual excitement, or choose colors that don\u2019t blend into the background wall treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For chandeliers, changing the color and style of clip-on shades<\/a> is an easy and instant upgrade that can enhance the look of your room. Lastly, ceiling light fixtures, once limited to neutral colors, are now available with colorful art shades<\/a>, offering a beautiful upgrade to any room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some Color Tips by Lamp Base Type:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A shade\u2019s fabric can blend in with a room d\u00e9cor or boldly stand out, depending on the design statement you are trying to make. But there are some tips to keep in mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Silk shades look best in formal rooms or intimate bedroom settings. By contrast, linen, parchment and textured looks have a more casual, rustic feel that\u2019s well suited for family rooms or dens. Hand-sewn or hand-painted shades add intimacy and softness to a room scene.<\/p>\n\n\n A new trend is toward crystal beaded accents or trim, which lend additional sparkle and brightness to a room. Depending on the base and the level of decoration, such shades can be casual comfy to tre chic!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Other shades accents include fabric trim, colored glass tassels, leather trim and even feathers.<\/p>\n\n\n Set a shade next to a base. Ideally, the shade should be 2 to 3 inches shorter than the base. A shade is at the proper height when just a half inch of the lamp neck (the part of the base just below the socket) is showing. Avoid choosing a shade that fails to cover the socket\u2019s underpinnings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And remember that when the lamp base is highly decorative, keep the shade plain. When a base is plain and not very detailed, you can safely add a fancier, splashier shade and still keep an eye-pleasing lamp \/ shade proportion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Trust your own eye and personal tastes. After all, you have to live with and be pleased with your shade choices. If it works for you, go with it. For more information, check out the links and the video below.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRule 2: It All Starts at the Top<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.lampsplus.com\/ideas-and-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Lamp-with-Shade.jpg\")
Rule 3: What\u2019s in a Shape<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Rule 4: Shapes Part 2 – Look at the Details<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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![\"Lamp](\"https:\/\/www.lampsplus.com\/ideas-and-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Lamp-Shade-Varieties.png\")
Rule 5: Color<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Rule 6: Fabric<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.lampsplus.com\/ideas-and-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Lamp-Shade-with-Fabric-Flower.jpg\")
Rule 7: Accents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.lampsplus.com\/ideas-and-advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Blue-Lamp-Shade.jpg\")
Rule 8: Proportion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Rule 9: Rules Are Made to Be Broken!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n