Add an instant dash of style to your existing decor - simply by changing the shades on your table lamps, floor lamps, chandeliers or fixtures! Our simple guide takes you through the steps to picking the style, fabric and color that's right for you.

Rule 1: Don't Buy the Same Old Thing
Most lamps or fixtures can look good with a number of different shade shapes and styles. So don't just automatically buy a new shade that's exactly like the one you're replacing.

Rule 2: It All Starts at the Top
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.

Rule 3: What's in a Shape
In general, a shade's shape should follow the contour of a lamp. This isn't a hard and fast rule, but it holds true in most cases.

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're angled.

Some other shape rules-of-thumb to consider:

• Bottom-heavy lamps can be made to appear lighter by the addition of cone-shaped shades on top.
• Square lamps take square shades, round lamps take round.
• Lamps that incorporate round and square elements can take a square shade or a modified square shade.

Rule 4: Shapes Part 2 - Look at the Details

• The way a shade is shaped can also be a factor.
• Fluted shades say elegant, refined and traditional.
• Pleats are more casual and homey.
• Scalloped edges imply a relaxed, gracious mood that' perfect for bedrooms.
• A bell shade is a highly adaptable, chameleon look, capable of fitting in a wide range of decor schemes.

Rule 5: Color
Shades have traditionally been white, simply because they let the most light through and are the most functional at illuminating an entire room.

But color definitely has a role. Black 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't blend into the background wall treatments.

Some color tips by lamp base type:

• Crystal Bases work best with white shades.
• Polished Brass demands white while...
• Antique Brass looks better with off-white or cream.
• Porcelain or Ceramic Patterns - try a shade that picks up a subtle background color in the base pattern. Taupe has long been one of our top selling colors.
• Wood and Iron can be matched with just about anything, but for a more contemporary look go white or try a fabric earth tone.
• Color on Color - try a gold shade on a gold lamp, red on red and so on for visual punch and pizzazz!

Rule 6: Fabric
A shade's fabric can blend in with a room decor or boldly stand out, depending on the design statement you are trying to make. But there are some tips to keep in mind.

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's well suited for family rooms or dens. Hand-sewn or hand-painted shades add intimacy and softness to a room scene.

Rule 7: Accents
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!

Other shades accents include fabric trim, colored glass tassels, leather trim and even feathers.

Rule 8: Proportion
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's underpinnings.

And remember that when the lamp base is highly decorative, keep the shade plain. When a base is plain and unornamented you can safely add a fancier, splashier shade and still keep an eye-pleasing lamp / shade proportion.

Rule 9: Rules Are Made to Be Broken!
Trust your own eye and personal tastes. After all, you have to live with and be pleased with your decor choices. If it works for you, go with it.