Faux Leather Lamp Shades

Vanessa Weber Interior Design Expert

Vanessa is a New York-based designer specializing in architectural lighting. Whether you are planning an event, want to illuminate your backyard retreat or simply need advice on what lamp to purchase for your bedroom, Vanessa will be more than happy to share her knowledge and expertise.

Updated 29/03/2021

Faux leather lamps shades offer all the benefits of leather without any of the drawbacks, no need to treat them as you would leather. The collection below features looks that are sure to add some rustic charm to your living space.

Buying Guide

Faux leather makes it possible to enjoy the natural warmth of leather without the cost or maintenance. Faux leather lamp shades are appealing when light mixes with fabric to reveal an earthy tone that highlights many different styles. A popular choice for anyone wishing to make a decorating statement.

What are faux leather lamp shades crafted from?

When it comes to lampshades, fake leather will present a more even and smooth appearance than that of genuine leather. Made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), dyes and plasticizers are added to make it flexible and available in hundreds of shades. A second method for creating faux leather requires taking cotton or polyester and coating it with a special type of polymer. Both are used in manufacturing upholstery and accessories and mimic the essence of real leather.

What styles of faux leather lamp shades are there?

Lamp shades come in assorted styles to bring harmony to specific decors. The lamp base is also important. The shade should fit the contour of the base. If unsure of the style, stay on the conservative side with a drum or coolie shade.

Drum - Round and shaped like a drum, there can be a slight curvature in the middle. Distressed or plain, a drum faux leather shade is virtually well suited for all types of decor. The lamp base is key in adding a modern, chic, western, or contemporary feel to a room.
Empire - An empire shade has a smaller opening at the top and flares down to the bottom without any curves. Faux leather lamp shades of the empire style will present a touch of elegance to a traditional or contemporary living space.
Coolie - The coolie resembles an empire shade except that the bottom opening is larger and more pronounced in comparison to the top. Fits well on large body lamps. Traditional decors appreciate the unique change of color and texture as a stunning asset.
Square - Wired with four prominent sides, the square shade can come in straight or slightly flared designs. Faux leather square lamp shades can be casual or sophisticated.
Rectangular- The rectangular shade is similar to the square type with four wired sides. However, it takes on the look of a rectangular in front and back as opposed to even sides.
Hexagon - A hexagon-shaped shade can be straight or fluted and constructed with six distinct turns. These lamps are great for a rustic look when cowhide strips are added along the seam lines.
Bell - Close in looks to a hexagon shade, the bell shade affords more options for trims and elegant lines. The bell shape fits many types of decors with a contemporary flow that blends well.

How to measure for a faux leather lamp shade?

A faux leather shade is only as good as the sizing that is provided. The height should be 2/3 the size of the base height. Always make sure that your shade is wider than the widest part of the base.