Questions about size, fittings, delivery or what happens if things go wonky? You’re in the right place.

Here are the useful answers without the usual pages of waffle. If you’re still unsure, do email hello@seriouslyshady.com. You'll be talking to an actual human.

Choosing your shade

How do I choose the right lampshade size?

There isn’t one rigid rule, because lamps and rooms come in all shapes and sizes. Measure the shade you already have if it works well, or use the proportions of your lamp base as a starting point. Our How to measure for a lampshade guide talks you through it.

Still unsure? Send us a photo of your lamp and your measurements before ordering. We’re happy to help you work it out. That’s rather easier than ordering the wrong shade and hoping for the best.

Can a shade be used on a table lamp, floor lamp or ceiling?

It depends on the shade and its fitting. Check the Shade Details on the product page for the recommended use and fitting type.

If your plans are a little unconventional, ask before ordering and we’ll tell you honestly whether it should work. We’re quite happy to say no when no is the sensible answer.

What fitting do I need?

Check your lamp or ceiling fitting against the fitting information in the product’s Shade Details. If you can’t identify it, send us a clear photo and we’ll help. All seriously Shady shades are fitted to fit either UK or EU fittings. Buying a lampshade shouldn’t require detective training..!

What is the Get It Right Guarantee?

If you ask for advice before buying and follow our recommendation, but we get the size, fitting or suitability wrong, we’ll put it right.

That includes covering the return and helping you find a shade that works. Because if you’ve asked us for help, we think we should actually help.

Fabric and handmade details

Will my shade look exactly like the photographs?

We photograph and describe every shade as accurately as possible, but screen settings can make colours look slightly different.

Handmade shades and vintage, reclaimed or designer-remnant fabrics can also have small variations in colour, texture, pattern placement or finish. That individuality is part of their charm, not a factory fault.

In other words: please expect handmade, not photocopied.

Can I order a fabric sample?

Usually not. Many of our fabrics are unique, vintage or available only in very small quantities, so cutting off a sample can mean there isn’t enough left to make the shade.

If you’re unsure about colour or texture, get in touch. We can provide extra photographs or practical advice where possible.

How should I care for my lampshade?

Dust it gently with a clean, dry, soft brush or a low-suction vacuum attachment.

Avoid water, cleaning sprays and vigorous rubbing, especially on vintage or textured fabrics. Handle the shade by its frame where possible rather than pressing the fabric panels. Basically: gentle is good, especially the vintage ones, they've seen a lot already right..? 

Delivery

Where do you deliver?

We currently ship to UK addresses.

If you’re outside the UK and have your heart set on a shade, contact us before ordering and we’ll let you know whether we can help.

How quickly will my order be sent?

Ready-to-ship shades are usually dispatched within 1–2 working days.

Made-to-order shades are usually dispatched within 3–5 working days. Hand-sewn, bespoke or customised work can take longer, and we’ll agree the timescale with you before starting.

How much is UK delivery?

Delivery is shown at checkout.

Royal Mail Tracked 48 for small and medium shades is £5.55, and Parcelforce Express 48 for bulky shades or orders is £13. Delivery is free on UK orders over £70.

What if my parcel is delayed or missing?

Check the tracking first and, if it says delivered, look around your property and ask your neighbours.

If it still seems to have wandered off, contact us and we’ll help investigate with the delivery company.

Returns and problems

Can I return a shade if I change my mind?

Yes. Contact us within 30 days of receiving your order.

The shade must be unused and returned in the same condition, with tags attached and its original packaging where possible. Email us before sending anything back so we can give you the return instructions.

Return postage is your responsibility for change-of-mind returns.

What can’t be returned?

We can’t accept returns of bespoke or personalised shades made specifically to your requirements, gift cards, or sale items unless they’re faulty or your legal rights say otherwise.

What if my shade arrives damaged, faulty or incorrect?

Contact us as soon as possible and include a few photographs of the shade and packaging if you can.

We’ll look at what happened and work with you to put it right. If the item is faulty, damaged or incorrect, we’ll cover the return.

How do refunds work?

Once your return arrives, we’ll inspect it and confirm whether the refund is approved.

Approved refunds go back to your original payment method. We’ll aim to process the refund within 10 business days of receiving and approving the return, although your bank or card provider may take a little longer to show it.

Still scratching your head?

Please email hello@seriouslyshady.com with your question, measurements or a photo of your lamp.

We’d much rather help before you order than leave you guessing. No question is too small, too strange or too shady.