Wrong Lamp Theory Is The Viral Trend That Will Change How You Think About Decor

Unique and distinctive lighting can make or break a room, serving not only as a proper way to light it up, but also as a piece of important decor during the day time when unlit. While you may be tempted to perfectly match your lighting fixtures and elements to your decor down to the colors, pattern, and textures, many homeowners are embracing the trend of choosing the very wrong lamp for your space. So wrong, in fact, that it may be exactly right. Based loosely on the fashion world's "wrong shoe" principle, the "wrong lamp" method has been going viral on social media, bringing in lamps that seem, at first glance, like they're at odds with what's around them. Like a super modern and contemporary sconce in a traditional or vintage inspired space. Or a brightly colorful lamp in an otherwise neutral room. The results, however, can be a stunning way to bring in a dash of the unexpected.

By embracing a bold statement with your lighting, you can add much more interest and dimension. Not only does it keep things from being boring or matchy-matchy, it allows you to get endlessly creative. The method causes a delightful tension between opposing styles that pays off immeasurably, making rooms feel chic and fresh than what you'd get with uniformity.

This variation can come from many different fields of comparison. For example, it may incorporate color, such as a boldly bright fuchsia or cobalt blue lamp, in the middle of mostly earth tones. Or try a dose of bright neon lighting in a pastel-colored room. It may also mean a more boldly patterned shade in a subdued and serious room. Texture and material is also a great place to look for variation, like placing a sleek chrome sconce amid a rustic or organic space. Scale and size are yet another way to create interest, such as an oversized lamp in a small room instead of the right size lamp for your space. Or a small sconce on a large and empty wall. An oversized pendant light can look stunning in a small space, like an entryway or hallway, where it can become a focal point for its size and sculptural quality.

The unexpected element can also come in a contrast between time period or design era. A sleek modern lamp in a vintage retro space works well. As does industrial-style lighting in a boho or a rustic space. The delightful tension between the two makes the room more interesting and tells a story, looking much more unique than if you purchased everything from a catalog or design room. The item gives the room personality that encompasses both styles.

While so much of decor writing is focused on finding the perfect lighting for your space, you may not know how to throw caution to the wind so readily. Whatever your design style is currently, think about ways you can surprise with your choice in lighting, be it color, material, or design trend. Don't be afraid to grab something that's super contrasting or something that you think may look ridiculous. It's all about testing the waters to see what you think looks best. It may be a matter of looking somewhat off the beaten path for your signature lighting pieces, such as thrift stores, antique venues, and flea markets. 

Look for pieces that may seem very wrong at first, but still somehow make the room make sense. This is perhaps more a sense of "you'll know it when you see it" than the tried and true guidelines of choosing the right light fixtures for your space. Most importantly, choose items that you really love, no matter their physical variation or ability to go together seamlessly. The sense of personality they bring can tell a story that is unique to you and your space.