All our lamps come complete with their own meticulously hand-picked shades, so you could just skip this section and head for your nearest Pier 1. Each lamp is designed with the optimum base-to-shade ratio, in on-trend colors that complement all your favorite Pier 1 decor. Some of our fancier lampshades are even lined with materials like faux crocodile, silver and black damask, and silky orange fabric. Here are a few details we’ve taken care of before you even get to the store. Proportion – Our table/desk lampshades are designed to be about 2/3 the height of the base. For floor lamps, a 4:1 ratio usually works best. The widest part of the shade is always at least ?" wider than the widest part of the base on each side and modestly covers the lamp’s harp and bulb socket. It’s just common decency.
Shaping up – A lampshade’s job is to complement the lamp (think talk-show sidekick). For rounder lamps, we select more rounded shades (drum, oval, empire, coolie, bell, etc.); for squarer bases, shades are generally more angular (square, rectangular, hexagon, pagoda). Exceptions to the rule crop up occasionally (like our fabulous Landmark Lamp). The more ornate the lamp, the simpler the shade and vice versa. Note: Pleated shades tend to look more traditional, while flat shades work well with almost any decor. More at http://bestledlamp.com/choosing-the-best-desk-lamp-for-students/.
Color – A multicolored or hand-painted Pier 1 lamp is always paired with a muted, single-color shade. For single-color lamps, it’s Katie-bar-the-door, with shades ranging from complementary colors to wild animal prints. More at http://bestledlamp.com/.