Star-Worthy Bathroom Lighting: 5 Luminous Looks Taking Over Unflattering Fixtures

Bathroom lighting has seen major innovation in recent years and come a long way from the boring—and sometimes downright unflattering—overheads and fluorescent makeup mirrors of years past.

Now we’re seeing bathroom lighting trends more akin to those in other spaces of the home—from fanciful chandeliers you’d typically find in a dining room to the textured pendants often used in living rooms to every type of wall sconce imaginable.

To help you navigate the waters of today’s bathroom light scene, we rounded up five of our favorite trends—with a little assistance from top designers. These ideas from Instagram are infusing tired bathrooms everywhere with a new kind of light. Now you can master the look, with a few smart tips from the pros.

1. Bubble bath chandelier

What better way to create a centerpiece in the bathroom than to take a geometry lesson from the bathtub? This bubble bath chandelier from @visualcomfort does all that and more.

“This bubble chandelier is pure glamour,” says lead designer Anna Tatsioni, of Decorilla. “It’s the kind of piece that can instantly transform a bathroom into a spa-like retreat. I’d pair it with some sleek, functional sconces for practical lighting and let the chandelier be the star of the show.”

2. Tasseled tiki pendants

For the more adventurous (or dare we even say coastal grandma) bathroom scheme, you might want to check out these tasseled tiki pendants from @luux_decor.

“Tassels on light fixtures don’t have to be vintage and formal—they can be modern and fun,” says designer Julie Taylor, of FLOOR360. “Seek out a set of tassel-enhanced lights for your guest bathroom to make a unique design statement. Just be sure they aren’t the main light source—but an added decorative layer of light.”

3. Lustrous scalloped chandelier

Another bath-approved centerpiece we love? This lustrous, scalloped chandelier from @kimberleyharrisoninteriors.

“This chandelier is a perfect blend of modern and classic, with its clean lines and organic textures,” says Tatsioni. “The neutral tones complement the dark walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s a bold yet sophisticated choice that elevates the entire space.”

4. Armed wall sconce

If your bathroom tends to be darker, a bright-light duo like these double-headed sconces from @mmlighting might be in order.

“Placing a matched set of armed wall sconces on either side of your vanity and mirror provides a sense of symmetry to your bathroom design,” says Taylor. “They allow for a singular design focal point and a midlevel lighting source to add to overhead or natural light from windows.”

5. Rustic bronze sconce

Going for a rustic-chic bathroom aesthetic? Then you might like this perfectly worn bronze sconce from @kyalandkara.

“This sconce has Old World charm with a modern twist that I just love,” says Tatsioni. “I can totally picture it in a glam bathroom with marble accents and gold fixtures; or for a more laid-back vibe, I can imagine it in a minimalist space with lots of white and wood.”