How do you choose the right lamp shade? Picking the perfect shade for your table or floor lamp is all about scale, style, and supporting your lamp base. So it has to fit the place and occasion, complement without overwhelming, and draw just enough attention to be noticed. While it may be intimidating, learning how to measure a lamp for a shade will guarantee the perfect outcome. Follow our guidelines so you can feel confident in your choice.

Flatter the lamp base

The first thing you do when you’re trying to choose the right lamp shade is to look at your lamp. What’s the general shape?

If your base is round, then a round shade usually works best.
A square or angular silhouette tends to look better with a square shade.

Of course, there are always exceptions to any decorating rule – candlestick lamps, with their combination of curves and angles, can handle just about any shape. And, if your lamp is square and your table is round, a round shade can complement both.

Measure lamp for shade size

So now that you know your Lamp base shape, it’s time to grab a tape measure. Here are our guidelines for how to measure a lamp for a shade:

Your shade should be about two-thirds the height of your lamp base (give or take an inch).
Proportion is the key – too tall and the effect will be top heavy, but too short and your lamp will look out of balance.
Just like a slip, you never want your harp to show. So if your lamp sits on a mantel or close to eye level, this is especially important.

To choose the right lamp shade width, measure your lamp base and multiply by two. For a round base, measure straight across; measure diagonally for a square base. The widest part of your shade should be at least a half-inch wider than the widest part of your base on each side.

And when you’re considering width, don’t forget location. So if your lamp is going next to a bed or in a busy hallway, pick a narrower shade to avoid flying elbows.