Some things just work beautifully together… Fred and Ginger, Bogey and Bacall… Posh and Becks (on a good day). A lampshade and base should be the same: a perfect pairing that brings out the best in each other.
There are no strict rules, of course – it’s all about finding a look you love. But a few handy pointers can help you strike just the right balance:
- Proportion is everything. As a rough guide, the shade should be about two-thirds the height of the base. Too small and it looks like an afterthought; too big and it can swamp the lamp.
- Mind the width. The shade should usually be wider than the widest part of the base, but not excessively so – think of it as a gentle echo of the shape below.
- Match the mood. A tall, elegant base looks lovely with a tall tapered or straight empire shade. Chunkier, more contemporary bases suit drums or short drums. Quirky base? Try a wizard hat for fun.
- Check the fitting. Most Pooky shades come with a standard fitting that works on any of our table or floor lamp bases – but it’s always good to double-check compatibility.
- Express yourself. Choose colours and patterns that speak to you – whether you want to add a pop of bold colour, a playful print, or a subtle neutral.
- Think texture. Linen, silk, card or pleated cotton – different materials create different effects, both in look and in the way they diffuse light.
Use Pooky’s mix-and-match feature to find your perfect base and shade pairing.
