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 works 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 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. Savita Glass Flush Mount | 2. Glass Flush Mount | 3. KABOMBA
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 that there’s a gold accent on the inside so it’s not so visually heavy. 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 utilitarian shape. I do want to point out that it has a built-in LED light that is bright so it’s a great fit for a bathroom, mudroom, or anywhere else that needs a very bright light.
1. KRANBALK | 2. Warren 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 shape of #2 so much. Vintage-inspired but still so modern. It also comes in gold and black. They show them on the site over a kitchen island, but I would put them all over my house. Just make sure your ceilings are decently high since it’s a direct light. 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 an affordable Schoolhouse fixture, which is a high compliment.
1. Starla Natural Rattan Basket Semi Flush Mount Ceiling Light | 2. Liz Rattan 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 mix of materials in #1 which makes it feel a little more modern. I’m sure it’s going to be no surprise that I love the shape of #2 and the medium tone of that rattan. #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. Natural Jute and Linen Bell Semi Flush Mount Ceiling Light | 2. REGNSKUR
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 an awesome dupe for a Crate and Barrel one that’s on this list in a bit. The shape is so elegant and the warm linen would give off the prettiest light. Then I love #2 not only for the wildly affordable price but for the great shape and accents. Both have a very European vibe to them if that’s what you’re looking for.
1. Tolio Brass Conical Flush Mount Light | 2. Calcott Flush Mount
In total transparency, I didn’t have a perfect “category” for these two lights but I loved them so here they are. #1 is a stunner. It’s definitely a brighter brass (at first) so will make more of a statement but in the right space it would add SO MUCH. But what’s even better is that the brass is unlaquered so it will patina over time and look vintage. Chef’s kiss! #2 is another light that has a built-in LED bulb so this puppy is going to be bright but with that ribbed terra cotta shade it’s a winner. It also comes in two other colors!
1. Odette Flush Mount Conversion Kit | 2. Gem Natural | 3. Scallop 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! #1 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 #2. 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. Bhagipuri Linen Blend Semi Flush Mount
We all know that a drum shade gives off beautiful, soft, even light. A real 10/10 if you will. These were my 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. #3 is awesome with the 2 tiers. A little more of a statement but there’s nothing wrong with that!
1. Anders Porcelain Flush Mount | 2. Zara Semi Flush | 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. Copa Tiered Natural Rattan Flush Mount Light | 2. Soleil Rattan Flush Mount | 3. Flared Woven Flush Mount
Another rattan roundup but with a bit more of a luxury look (aka mainly the brass accents). I’ve gotten very into Italian rattan (like a lot of the design world) and #1 is really giving that kind of look. It’s been around for a minute and for good reason. #2 is a great option in my book because you get the rattan, the pretty shape, and a good amount of light! Since the shade doesn’t cover most of the bulb, it’s going to light the space it’s in way better than most rattan lights that are similar. #3 does such a great job mixing a more traditional metal base shape with a trendier shade. It looks completely classic and will stand the test of time!
1. Scarlet Flush Mount Light | 2. Stefanie Silk Flush Mount | 3. Harriet Ambient 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 reverse 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 more of an exposed bulb look that I’m really into. Seeing the white wiring I think makes it more modern, which is a cool contrast. Big fan.
1. Farmhouse Metal Flush Mount | 2. Rosanne Glass Flush Mount
Oh, I really love #1 and I think 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 black/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.
1. Drift Adjustable Ceiling Lamp | 2. Harper Flush Mount Light | 3. Ardsley 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. Speaking of color, #2 is such a fun option! The style is also simple but cool and comes in a bright red if you’re looking for an “unexpected red” moment to add to your space. Lastly, #3 feels like such a classic at this point. It’s a forever cool light that you would absolutely want to take with you if you moved.
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. Jules Flush Mount | 2. Ardythe Alabaster/Metal Semi-Flush Mount | 3. Bezel Metal Flush Mount
And speaking of filtered and soft lights, these three also fit that bill. #1 is a great affordable option to the ones Caitlin has in her hallway. Art deco inspired, so beautiful and gives off a great light. Now, #2 won’t work in every home but for the right style I know it would look so incredible. #3 has a sandblasted glass shade that stylistically is so versatile. Modern, cool, beautiful. It also comes in a perforated gold shade which is also pretty sick:)
1. Aneve Silk Flush Mount | 2. Naomi Flush Mount
I love a modern scallop, what can I say!? #1 is the higher end version of the $28 IKEA one. Both are great but this one is a bit more refined hence the price difference. It also comes in three sizes! This is one very me, ha. Then #2 is another directional light fixture so isn’t really going to give you that “fill the room” look. But if you don’t want or need that then the shape and material are SO good.
$250 – $350
1. Gull Flush Mount | 2. ELIANA Flush Mount | 3. Moxie Semi Flush | 4. Rainier Black Conical Flush Mount Light | 5. Dilworth Flush Mount | 6. RUE Flush Mount
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 to not want to share:)). I’m obsessed with the shape and two-tier look of #1. The modern but vintage styles of #2 and #6 are so so good (and would give off beautiful ambient light). I adore the modern boldness of #3 and #4. I really love a cone shaped light. And finally, 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.
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)
These are lovely options! I especially like the scallop designed lights. I finally changed out the light fixtures in the kitchen and hallway in my home a few months back. We’ve lived here for 3 years. It really does make a big impact. It’s funny, I find for me, I’ll buy a lot of Starbucks drinks, and little things that add up, but always tell myself the lights will be too expensive, but when I actually just pull the trigger, it is SO worth it for the impact that it makes.
Congrats! It’s such a great feeling once you do it!
any tips on the actual replacing process? That’s the part that intimidates me even though I’m generally handy. Can’t pay someone but would have stared at my boob lights for years picturing their replacements. Just nervous about the ‘how to’.
If I can do it then you can, I promise. I would go on YouTube and learn from a professional electrician. I’m sure there are a ton. Good luck!
thanks for the vote of confidence 🙂 I can build or paint anything at home ( ish) but have always been intimidated by electricity. If anyone else has specific tutorials I’d love to hear! My bad lights are menacingly laughing at me.
I really like these suggestions and if you’re considering continuing the series beyond boob lights, would love some ideas on replacing the track lighting down my hallway (ugly! spotlights!) and the big florescent light in my galley kitchen (too bright! hard to figure out the right scale given how bright it is!).
Good idea! I’ll talk to the team about it
Could we also talk about ceiling fans which are so practical and use less energy but I rather shunned by the decorating world
Also replacing canned lights with pretty ones. This could be a great series!
One important thing to note (as someone who just replaced all the boob lights in an apartment) is that most boob lights cover 2-3 bulbs, BUT a lot of the pretty ones noted above only hold 1 bulb (I DON’T UNDERSTAND WHY THEY DO THAT!). So, not only do you need to consider if the shade/design will block/muffle any light, but you need to be aware you may be cutting your lightbulbs in half/by two-thirds… not something that’s ideal for most spaces.
I wish these vendors would A: make more things with 2+ bulbs that aren’t like a chandelier look and B: be clearer about how many bulbs their light holds (that should be the first detail it notes, not way down in the description drop down!)
Good tip! There are a good amount in this post that have more than one bulb but are covered so you can’t see. But I totally hear you!
Yes! Sorry, I more meant the ones I’d sourced that had the look of the pretty ones above…. Not necessarily that yours were all 1 bulb! 😀
It just wasn’t something I’d thought about! Every single ceiling-mount light in my apartment was 2 bulbs, so I didn’t realize that 95% of the ceiling mount fixtures I was looking at online (i.e. non-ugly ones) would be 1 bulb!
This EXACTLY.
As someone who is six months in to living in a house filled with the epitome of early 2000s builder grade lighting, including boob lights everywhere, this post is soooo helpful! Please do ones for sconces, vanity lights and chandeliers too!!
So happy this was so helpful! And we’ll definitely talk about continuing the series:)
They’ve done a few of these types of posts over the years but probably time for an update. Search for these posts:
Love this! Can you do a roundup like this for ceiling fans? We’re trying to find a replacement for a super ugly one in our house but are struggling to find something that looks nice. (Would 100% remove the fan if we could but the air circulation is needed in our old home without AC)
They’ve done a few over the years but probably time for an update. Search for these posts:
Impossible. Sorry! There are no aesthetically pleasing ceiling fans for some reason. I find it so baffling and frustrating, since my husband insists on one for our bedroom. No matter how much I look I have never found one I love. Eventually, I just break down and agree to the least upsetting option. Lol…
Just throwing out my favorite $2.50 renter fix for boob lights
https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/fjaellmil-pendant-lamp-shade-white-10514527/
I bought one of these to basically “cover” the boob light in my bedroom. Cut the wire at the top a bit so that I could slide it over and under my boob light. No wiring required!
Instead of switching perfectly usable lighting, wouldn’t it be easier and much cheaper just to spray paint the base/framing? I don’t think boob lights are as bad as every blogger claims. There is so much waste sitting in landfills because people dump usable decor items just to needlessly replace them with yet more stuff. And for paying an electrician to switch out a ceiling light may be more expensive than the light itself. Many landlords don’t allow cosmetic changes because they don’t want their property damaged.
They ARE as bad. Painting them will not hide that. Switching out light fixtures is easy, no need to hire someone.
I’ve updated lighting in almost every rental I’ve lived in and the landlords have rejoiced. Once, my first rental, I did more work than I should have and asked for slight compensation when I was moving out. The landlord balked but then I said, “Fine. I’ll return the house back to the original state.” She paid.
I’m sensitive to sustainability. Updates can be made with used or reclaimed materials and the lights removed donated. Aesthetics might not be a priority for you, and that is fine. It’s just the point of this whole blog…
This may be one of the most helpful posts of all time, ever on this site. Thank you so much for continued excellence!
Love so many of these! And, SCALLOPS- such a happy little resurgence. I’m doing my laundry area with 1940s barkcloth, flamingos, vintage tablecloths, and scallops. There are two canless/ puck style lights in the ceiling- any suggestions on how to easily upgrade those?
These kinds of roundups are always so useful!
Last year, I swapped out a boob light for the “Mitzi Wave 3 Light 16″ Wide Flush Mount Drum Ceiling Fixture” and it was a lot bigger than I thought in person, but I love it so much! One thing with the boob light replacements is that I didn’t want to look up directly in a bulb. I also wanted it to be interesting but not loud. The wavy edges on this fixture are just enough.
I really want #1 under black and modern – supposedly has over 2000 reviews but when you hit “show more” it’s just repeating them. Getting real reviews in the age of AI is going to be challenging. Anyone actually have that one and can vouch for it?
I only look at the photos in reviews because to me that can’t be faked. That light has quite a few photos, so I think the reviews are valid. Plus, the price point and return policy make it low risk.
This was perfect timing! Any suggestions for replacing the boob light-fan combo in my bathroom?
Definitely a case of finding the “least” ugly one because I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a design-forward bathroom fan. Search for the main brands that make them, look directly at their “manufacturing” sites to find one you like. Some of the main brands are: