shades and sizes

a question i often get is "how do i know if the shade will look right on my lamp?" or "what size shade should i buy?" sometimes you will not have your lamp when shade shopping and you can't rely on your eye to tell you if it looks right.

a few years ago, i bought a wonderful book by nadine redfield. in this book, she states that "the visible part of the lamp should be at least two inches greater in height than the height of the lampshade." this is a pretty good rule of thumb to go by. however, as with any decorating item, if you love it, buy it and you will find a home for it.