Hi! It’s me, Jess—your resident light fixture-obsessed friend. Today I am here to chat to you about your boobs. BOOB LIGHTS! We allll know the ones. Landlords and flippers love them because they are cheap (especially when you need to get a lot of them). It’s a real “don’t hate the player, hate the game” situation, but honestly, I’m not a fan of either. I am sure there are some of you reading this who have wanted to switch those puppies out from the moment you toured your home for the first time, and either haven’t had the bandwidth to search for the right replacement or haven’t had the budget, or both. Well, I hope this post will solve both of those problems.
I know it can feel intimidating to replace a hardwired light, but I promise it’s easier than you think! I’ve switched out so many lights in my many rentals on my own, but of course, if you don’t know how, then get a person who does (and maybe they’ll teach you for the future). Safety first, deal? Or if you have the budget to pay someone, then that’s the easiest option:) Ok, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane to see the profound power of saying buh bye boobs, and hello beautiful ceiling lights.
No one on this earth could tell me Caitlin’s hallway in her rental apartment doesn’t look one million times better post its makeover/new lights. It, of course, would have been massively upgraded with the paint and art added while still keeping the boob lights. BUT it’s so stunning and so special with the new semi flush mounts.
Sara’s kitchen in the home she and her husband bought got a wonderful gut job with the help of her dad and brother. There was no way a new and improved ceiling light wasn’t going to be installed. The size is similar to the original, but the shape and accents make the space more elevated and work perfectly with the rest of her design/the home’s architecture.
The original entry ceiling light at the mountain house is more of a cousin to the classic boob light, but it had the shape and nipple accent, so I’m counting it! It was dated and didn’t work with the light, airy, Scandi vibe the home would eventually have. So Emily and the design team picked out this beautiful semi flush mount that was simple in shape but had fun modern accents (like most of the house had). A MUCH better fit.
And for my final example today, I’m taking you to the farmhouse entry. Again, the original light was more “boob light adjacent,” but regardless, it wasn’t a style fit. Instead, Emily chose a more pendant-like light that was simple and neutral (and beautiful) so that the wallpaper and art wall could really shine. Couldn’t have picked a better one if I tried.
Now, let’s talk about your home, shall we? I chose lights that range from $28 to $339 (don’t worry, the over $250 section is the smallest, but I loved them, so I wanted to add). And style-wise, I really tried to find something for everyone. And of course, even if you don’t have a boob light to replace and just need a ceiling light (flush and semi flush mount) recommendation, you are welcome to:) Let’s take a look.
UNDER $150
1. Miasophia Glass Semi Flush Mount | 2. Glass Flush Mount | 3. Hyde Flushmount
Why not start off modern? A black ceiling light can either be a fun, bold, but cool statement on your light colored ceiling, or blend in nicely on your dark colored or dark wallpapered ceiling. What I like about #1 is the horizontal length and that it gives off so much light. Sometimes these standard boob lights are the absolute wrong scale and too small for the area they are in. So this one is perfect if you have a low ceiling in a larger or longer space where you want a bigger flush mount. Plus, the shape is great. #2 is both cool and playful. It also comes in brass if that’s more your style. Then #3 has an awesome modern utilitarian shape. Almost “Schoolhouse” in style but at a very affordable pricepoint. I also love that since the bulb/glass cover isn’t super tucked into the black dome, you’re still going to get a ton of ambient light, instead of super directional.
1. KRANBALK | 2. Statler Glass Semi Flush Mount | 3. Gemma Flushmount Ceiling Light
I was pretty happily stunned when I saw that #1 was an IKEA fixture. Not that it was shocking that IKEA had a great light (they have many), but this one just looked more elevated. The color is so chic. Then I just love the classic shape of #2. Vintage MCM-inspired but still so modern because of the cool beige color. It also comes in other colors if this doesn’t work with your home. Then the #3 is also such a great find! The color is a soft, warm beige that I’m in love with (you can see it better on their site). To me, it looks like another affordable Schoolhouse-like fixture, which is a high compliment.
1. Semi-flush Mount Light Rattan Shade | 2. Farmhouse Rattan Plait Dome Semi Flush Mount | 3. Light Raffia Dimmable Metal Drum Flush Mount
Now, for the woven lights:) If you want to add more visual texture to your home, then these would be great options for you. I really like the shape of #1, which makes it feel a little more eclectic than anything else. #2 is the perfect medium tone and would work effortlessly in a more traditional or farmhouse home. #3 comes in two different sizes and colors with a fun shape (and at a great price!). I will say for all of these, you can likely expect a medium to low amount of light. Rattan/woven lights like these are great for a more moody vibe. Just want to manage those expectations:)
1. White Fabric Flush Mount | 2. White Modern Style Semi-Flush
If you want a soft texture/organic-looking ceiling light but aren’t looking for that rattan look, then these two are perfect! #1 is a vintage-inspired beauty. The shape is so elegant, and the warm Japanese silk fabric would give off the prettiest light. Then, if you want modern romance, by way of flush mount, #2 is a great price and totally special. This is my type of visual texture:)
1. Cudzilo Semi Flush Mount | 2. Sawvel Semi Flush Mount | 3. Saffron Single Light Glass Flush Mount
I didn’t have a perfect category for these three, but I loved them, so here they are. #1 is this cool modern organic wood light that feels very midcentury modern vibe. Look at that high gloss wood! Then #2 is perfect for a minimal look. OR think how pretty this would look in, say, a burgundy hallway?? I do prefer opaque light bulbs with most lights where the bulb is exposed, so the light is less harsh. #3 is for my color lovers. It’s fun, eclectic, and totally unexpected. I would love to see this in someone’s home that full of patterns and color.
1. Gem Fern | 2. Dakota Gathered Fabric Flush Mount Conversion Kit | 3. Odette Flush Mount Conversion Kit
Now, while I’m a renter who will change her ceiling and wall lights without a second thought, I do understand that not every renter is like me. There have been some new developments in the boob light concealing arena that are very cool and don’t require an electrician. Welcome to boob light covers! #2 and #3 are both from Urban Outfitters and have really fun and playful looks. There are a couple more options on their site if you want to see. But if you’re looking for something a little more organic and neutral, take a look at #1. Gretchen was the first one to make me aware of this brand, Tulip Shades, and I think they make the coolest designs. There’s a lot to choose from, so go take a peek.
$150 – $250
Let’s go up a little bit:)
1. Romines Cotton Semi Flush Mount | 2. Landor Natural Woven Drum Semi Flush Mount Ceiling Light | 3. Holden Linen Flush Mount
We all know that a drum shade gives off beautiful, soft, even light. A real 10/10 if you will. These were the favorites that I found. #1 is simple and classic and can do no wrong. It also comes in all white if you want it a little more modern-looking. Then, for a warmer/more natural look, #2 is perfect. It’s got an organic vibe while still working seamlessly with a more traditional style. I love a cone shape too, like #3. Still classic and traditional, but a little fresher.
1. Anders Porcelain Flush Mount | 2. Piero Flush Mount | 3. Allegra Large Linen Flush Mount Light
These next three are also soft light beauts. #1 is going to give off a more directional light, but I love the drum shape in that more organic porcelain material. That, plus the brass base, is such a pretty style contrast. Then #2 is giving modern art deco. Simple and special is the only way to describe this cutie. #3 is what I think the World Market one duped. It’s $100 more, which is a pretty big difference if you have a smaller budget. I do, of course, love this one and the ball finial (yes, it’s kinda like the boob light nipple but waaaay prettier, ok??!).
1. Kalani Flush Mount Light | 2. Rattan Bubble Flush Mount | 3. Meridian Ceiling Light
Another rattan roundup, but with a bit more of a luxury look. #1 is wonderfully refined, while still having that texture and organic feel. Oh, and the light bulb is popping out of the bottom, which makes me think the lighting will be pretty good:) #2 will likely give off a moodier and reduced amount of light, so not great for spaces that need that. Otherwise, if that works for you, how sweet are those scallops? I also love the darker rattan and the white matte base. It feels more modern than if it were brass. #3 does such a great job mixing a more traditional metal base shape with a trendier wide cone shade. It looks completely classic but cool and will stand the test of time!
1. Scarlet Flush Mount Light | 2. Stefanie Silk Flush Mount | 3. Pierce & Ward Pleated Flush Mount
Pleated shades are still going strong, and I, for one, am very happy about it. #1 is as classic as they come, and with the light filtering base, it’s guaranteed to give off a soft, beautiful light. #2 I love because of the inverse shade. This one isn’t a knife pleat like the other two, but it still counts in my book. The brass detailing is also so pretty. #3 is incredible fun because it’s yellow! And before you think this color may be a little too bold, read this post, and you will feel differently. Plus, anything that Pierce & Ward designs is amazing.
1. Farmhouse Metal Flush Mount | 2. Rosanne Glass Flush Mount | 3. Kitt Metal Round Indoor/Outdoor Flush Mount
Oh, I really love #1, and I think it would be so, so pretty in a modern farmhouse. Can’t you see these also in Em’s house? Of course, it can work with other styles too, and the cream/brass is really elegant on this light. It does come in three other color options if this one doesn’t work with your home. #2 is another great modern traditional light that is simple but not boring, and could work with so many styles. #3 is bolder with its black exterior, but really gives off that modern utilitarian style perfectly.
1. Drift Adjustable Ceiling Lamp | 2. Boden Dome Flush Mount Light | 3. Polly Modern Metal Flush Mount
I don’t have a place in my apartment for #1, but I wish I did! It’s so chic and simple and feels vintage-inspired. It also comes in green/brown combo if you want some color in your ceiling light. If you love a real “mod” look, #2 is extremely cool and will give off so much light! Lastly, #3 is for my color lovers. Another yellow, but if you want to go even bolder, there’s a lavender and red combo:) The shape is also just so sweet.
1. Coy Flushmount Ceiling Light | 2. 3-Light 22 Modern Sputnik Globe Semi Flush Mount
If you’re a fan of a more “chandelier look,” then these two lights could be great picks for you! #1 is another from Article that I’m so impressed by. The shapes of the shades give it an extra cool edge, and with 4 bulbs, you’re getting a very lit room (I would recommend a dimmer:)). It also comes in black. Then #2 is a total classic that’s another one that won’t go out of style. It also comes in a black/gold combo, and you can pick from a white bulb or a hammered glass bulb. I tend to prefer the white since the light is filtered and softer.
1. Ahona Dimmable Semi Flush Mount | 2. Ardythe Alabaster/Metal Semi-Flush Mount | 3. Ascot Aged Brass Flush Mount Light
Who doesn’t love a little bit of glam in their lighting, right? #1 is a great option and actually pretty on trend despite not giving that vibe (the dream:)). Now, #2 won’t work in every home, but for the right style, I know it would look so incredible. I really love the shape of #3’s brass base. It’s elegant, clean, and special!
1. Bundt Semi-Flushmount | 2. Matte Pleated Glass Semi-Flush Mount
Modern elegance is what this style is all about! #1 is such a pretty inverted flush mount light. The slight glossy sheen and the soft light that’s likely going to radiate through your room will be beautiful. #2 is the same, but also kind of opposite. Similar shape but flipped the other direction and in a matte sheen. You can’t go wrong with either.
$250 – $400
1. Gull Flush Mount | 2. ELIANA Flush Mount | 3. Radner Flush Mount Light | 4. Cruz Flush Mount | 5. Dilworth Flush Mount | 6. Helmi Flush Mount Light
I know it’s debatable to call these “affordable,” but since everyone has a different budget, I wanted to give just a few more options (plus once I start finding lights I love, it’s really hard not to want to share:)). I’m obsessed with the shape and two-tier look of #1. The modern but vintage style of #2 is so so good (and would give off beautiful ambient light). I adore the color and organic shape of #3 (I would own that in a second). The modern boldness of #4 with that cone-shaped shade is effortlessly cool. Oh, and the mix of materials in #5 is so, so good. If you haven’t heard of Worley’s lighting, then go to their site now. Their pieces are so beautiful, and Emily even used them in some of the River House rooms. Just saying. Finally, #6 is a very special and unique piece, and in the right home will completely shine (I had to do one lighting pun:))
Ok, end of session. As always, I really hope this was fun, gave you some ideas, and for the sake of this post’s mission, convinced you to replace that boob light.
Love you, mean it.
Opening Image Credits: Design and Photos by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | Styled by Emily Bowser | From: Sara’s Galley Kitchen “Update” Turned Into a Full Renovation (And The Result is Well Worth the Wait)
