Understanding Lamp Shade Styles

At Restoration Lighting Gallery, we have over 1,000 lamp shades in stock, including fabric and glass varieties. Our experienced craftsmen specialize in lamp shade recovery, re-lining and customization. If you have a lamp base that needs a new shade, we are your local source for unique treasures and unmatched value.

What should you know before choosing a style?

8 Lampshade Frames to Know

A shade’s frame refers to its basic shape. For instance, many Victorian shades are bell-shaped or curved in. While there are many frame designs, let’s explore 8 of the most common ones.

Consider the following points about each before making your final decision:

  • Empire: This shade is wider at the bottom and slants inward, reminiscent of an A-Line skirt. The empire shape is classic and can be used with nearly any style base.
  • Bell: This shade is smaller at the top with a graceful curve to a much wider. Bells come is many shapes such as Square bells, Rectangle bells & Coolie Bells. The bell shape was used centuries ago, so it complements traditional fixtures best. Bells come is many shapes such as Square bells, Rectangle bells, Coolie Bells
  • Drum: Shaped like a cylinder, the drum shade can be slightly larger at the bottom or proportional on both ends. Large drum shades can make a statement with their size.
  • Coolie: The coolie shade has a very narrow opening at the top, which widens into a large bottom. It is the perfect complement to a modern lamp base.
  • Hexagon: With six sides, this style shade is considered unusual in design. The hexagon shape fits well in a rustic, early 1900s-inspired room.
  • Rectangle: The rectangle shade is another unexpected shape, often seen on desks, sofa tables or any narrow table. It pairs well with a rectangle base for a traditional look or a round base for a modern look.
  • Scallop: Shades cut with scallop-shaped accents are generally meant for decorative use. With this style shade, a lamp will stand out among other basic fixtures.
  • Square: Similar to the rectangle shade, square lamp shades can be used to match a square base or contrast a different shape for a bold style statement.

Taking safety into consideration, your lamp shade may be too narrow if it doesn’t allow for proper heat ventilation. If it feels warm above the opening, consider one with a wider top.
 
Visit our lamp shade department to see the latest styles and fabrics, designed to perfectly complement your special lamp.

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