Here's How To Go Boho In The Bedroom (Hint: It's All About The Lighting)
Statement lighting is having a moment. And, we'd argue, nothing is more of a conversation piece than a funky bohemian fixture. But what, exactly, is bohemian-style lighting? It's eclectic, a little bit worldly, more maximalist than minimalist, and never matchy-matchy. It looks vintage, not new, as though you happened upon the fixture at an open-air market during your travels and fought your way through customs to bring it home in your suitcase — when, really, you just ordered it from Etsy. Boho lighting might be woven, beaded, tasseled, fringed, trailing with macrame, brightly colored, or even have a ceramic shade. The thing about bohemian style is it's more of a vibe than an exact look, so no matter your aesthetic, you're sure to find a fixture that will fit. Take a look at these seven bedroom lighting ideas that are bursting with bohemian spirit.
1. Opt for Bamboo
A hallmark of a bohemian-style fixture? A decidedly handmade look. A pendant with a rattan or bamboo shade — like the World Market option seen in this boho-chic bedroom by Sara and Rich Combs of The Joshua Tree House — will add a laidback, hippie feel to the bedside.
Get the look: World Market Basket Weave Bamboo Pendant Lamp, $69.99
2. When in Doubt, Add Fringe
When it comes to bohemian style, texture is key — especially when that texture is made up of tassels or fringe. Add a hanging lamp (or two) decked out in tassels, like this ombre beauty by Justina Blakeney, for instant retro/boho appeal.
Get the look: Fela Tassel Wall Pendant in Indigo Ombre, $119
3. Work in a Pair of Wall Lamps
If you really want to make a statement, follow this bedroom lighting idea (compliments of Amber Lewis) and frame your bed with a pair of articulating wall sconces. The look is decidedly modern and more importantly, these fixtures will come in handy for late night reading. Pair with a vintage lantern for a look that's straight out of a bazaar.
Get the look: Workstead Wall Lamp in Black, $795
4. Throw in a Floor Lamp ... and a Wall Sconce
For a boho twist, mix and match. Erin from Kismet House did just that in this cozy bedroom and we wholeheartedly approve. Rustic wood finishes add balance to bold, contrasting colors, resulting in a design that's visually interesting without being too busy. While she snagged her floor lamp from AllModern, the exact model is unavailable, so we found a strikingly similar option below.
Get the look: Langley Street Dale 63.75" Arched/Arc Floor Lamp, $85.48 and Rejuvenation Cylinder Task Double Arm Wall Light, $399
5. Go for Color
Bedroom lighting ideas with glass, while very on-trend, also channel boho-chic vibes. Hung on either side of the bed, wall-mounted fixtures — like the rose-tinted sconces seen in this haven belonging to Kelly from Studio DIY — make for practical reading lights. Want to be even more boho? A woven wall hanging doesn't hurt.
Get the look: Anthropologie Salmar Wall Sconce, $78.40
6. Sneak in a Statement Shade, On a Budget
Working with a budget? Don't worry, it IS possible to incorporate bohemian flair into your sleeping quarters without breaking the bank. When Jane from A Taste of Koko needed a bedroom lighting idea to complete her boho refuge, she turned to mega retailer IKEA. Of course! And the handmade bamboo shade did not disappoint, adding warmth and texture and tying the whole look together.
Get the look: IKEA Böja Pendant Lamp, $69.99
7. Seek Out Eclectic Shapes
For max boho style, look for a table, floor, or wall lamp with an unexpected shape and put it in a prominent spot. The more eccentric, the better: The pineapple shape of this fixture — plus its textured metal construction and dual-armed light — lend an impossibly cool thrift shop aesthetic. (P.S. We like this Tropical Boho Leaf Sconce, too.)
Get the look: Benzara Beautifully Sculpted Iron Pineapple Wall Sconce in Gold, $127.99