If you've thought about tossing that old lamp that's worn out and seen better days, you may want to reconsider. Having the lamp restored may be a better option than replacement, and it's a fun and easy way to dress up your home décor with little effort. Simply replace an existing lampshade with a custom-designed shade in a different shape or color, and you can breathe new life into any room in your home.

Here are a few ways new lampshades can function with different styles of décor.

All things authentic and homemade is the focus of the farmhouse decorating style. When you select lampshades for this style, avoid anything embellished or detailed. Choose shades constructed of burlap or linen in neutral hues and in classic lampshade shapes, such as bell or empire.

Match your lampshade fabric to a burlap table runner on the coffee table to enhance the look of the room. Another way to add a cohesive look to the room is to select lampshades in the same color of your farmhouse curtains.

With its practical and minimalist look, modern décor is focused on clean lines and function rather than sentimental value. Avoid pleated lampshades. European style lampshades are a great choice for modern homes, and they work especially well with tall and slender lamps, such as candlestick styles.

Modern style can appear cold at times, and the right lampshade can tone down the coolness and add coziness to a room. You may wish to consider a gray fabric lampshade instead of white to soften the look of a cold room.

Rustic style is all about getting back to nature with a style that takes its cues from the outdoors. Use textures and organic elements, such as wood or stone lamps is common in rustic homes. Enhance the appearance of these chunky wood or stone lamps and avoid bell-shaped lampshades. Opt for square, rectangle, or empire shapes instead.

Don't be afraid to try a plaid fabric lampshade to add a pop of rustic color to a room. Rustic red and hunter green lampshades can make a drastic difference in the appearance of a room and preserve the natural look you enjoy.

Traditional decorating is all about rich architecture, and detailed furnishings are hallmarks of this classic style. Choose lampshades that will enhance the historic beauty of traditional style décor. Pleated lampshades and oval-shaped styles work well in traditional homes while square or rectangle shapes should be avoided.

Traditional style doesn't mean you have to stick with white or off-white lampshades. Rich mauve, deep blue, or golden yellow lampshade fabrics will add an elegant touch of color to any room. For rooms with floral drapes and rugs, matching the lampshade color to one of the colors in a rug or drape can help pull a room together.

Bohemian style decorating is carefree and fun. You don't have to worry about whether everything matches, since it's not unusual to find a variety of textures, colors, and designs mixed together in the Bohemian style. This vibrant style gives you the freedom to experiment with a variety of lampshade styles in bright and bold colors.

Stay true to Bohemian style and choose lampshades embellished with beads or tassels. Lampshade fabrics with embroidered or macramé accents are also good choices. Floral and bold colors are always in style in Bohemian decorating.

If you are looking for an easy way to bring new life to your home décor, have your old lamps restored. Not only are lamps a necessity for providing adequate light throughout the home, they also serve a vital role as decorative pieces to enhance the beauty of a room. Contact Lamps & Lamp Shades Specialties for all your lamp and lampshade restoration needs.