Shape guide
Conical lampshades: tapered, empire and bespoke proportions
A conical lampshade is one of the most versatile shapes in decorative lighting. Its slope brings movement to the lamp, directs light downward and adapts well to both antique and contemporary interiors.
In the Illumine workshop, a tapered shade is calculated from the lamp base, the socket height and the desired light effect. A few millimetres can change how the bulb is hidden and how balanced the lamp feels.
Main conical lampshade shapes
Classic tapered shade
Wider at the bottom, narrower at the top and easy to use on table lamps, bedside lamps and many floor lamps.
Empire shade
A refined tapered profile with a traditional feel, often chosen for antique bases and warm fabric finishes.
Inverted cone
Wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, useful for decorative effects and specific lamp bases.
Scalloped conical shade
A tapered shade with a shaped lower edge, often finished with trim, braid or a hand-sewn detail.
Proportions to measure
A conical shade is defined by three dimensions: top diameter, bottom diameter and height. The fitting then determines where the shade sits on the lamp and whether the bulb remains properly hidden.
Top diameter
Controls the opening around the socket and the visible line above the bulb.
Bottom diameter
Sets the visual width of the lamp and the amount of downward light.
Height
Must hide the bulb while keeping the slope elegant and proportionate.
Fitting
E27 socket, harp, lyre or other systems change the final sitting height.
When bespoke making matters
Bespoke making is useful when the lamp base is antique, very narrow, unusually tall or fitted with a specific harp or socket system. It also lets the fabric direction, trim and lower edge follow the style of the lamp.
For the technical side, start with the lampshade fitting guide. If the shade is for a floor lamp, the floor lamp lampshade guide covers larger proportions.
Need a bespoke conical shade?
Send the lamp photo, the fitting type and any existing shade dimensions. The workshop can advise the right slope, fabric and finish.
Request advice