The Chicest Bedrooms Always Have Reading Lights – These 12 Are On Our Designer Editor's Wishlist

No, not all reading lamps are clunky clip-ons that will bring down the look of your bedroom

an assortment of reading lamps
(Image credit: Future)

Picture this – after a long day, you're finally tucked into bed enjoying your current read. You catch yourself dozing off, but before you fall asleep, you realize you have to turn off the bedroom light... and the switch is all the way across the room.

When you're already in bed and eager to sleep, there's nothing worse than having to get up to shut off the lights. That's why you need a reading lamp in your bedroom's lighting scheme. And I'm not talking about a flimsy clip-on light that'll weigh down the pages of your book. What I mean is a proper reading lamp – one that can light up your evening read in style and switch off with ease.

However, not all reading lamps are made equal; not all are worthy of a spot next to your pillow. Some are too big, some are too utilitarian, and some will definitely look like an afterthought in the room's design scheme. That's why I've used my style editor eye to scour the internet for the chicest styles – reading lamps that'll give the bedroom a luxury hotel room feel, provide ample light to read by, and look good while doing so.

With their sleek finishes and simplicity in form, my pick of the best reading lamps taps into some of the hottest lighting trends of the year, in on-trend finishes and sconce-like silhouettes, each designed to tastefully complement your bedroom's existing decor scheme. Plus, all are made to either clip onto your headboard or mount to your wall – no hardwiring required, so you can install them in minutes.


The Cut is all about Homes & Gardens helping you invest in pieces that feel current now, but won’t date as trends shift. Finds that elevate a room today and still feel right years from now. Whether it’s a sculptural accent chair or a chic pendant light, our editors will curate an edit that balances style, longevity, and quality. Consider this your shortcut to smart, beautiful shopping.

Devin Toolen
Style Editor

Devin Toolen is a New York-based Style Editor for Homes & Gardens. After achieving her Bachelor’s Degree at Villanova University, Devin moved to Paris, France, to obtain her Master’s Degree at Parsons School of Design. Upon returning to the United States, Devin began working in the media industry with Cosmopolitan Magazine, where she wrote trend-driven fashion stories and assisted on set for many photoshoots, and later Livingetc, where she wrote interior design stories and assisted with the magazine’s social media pages. She has an appreciation for every aspect of personal style – from the clothes we wear to the design of our homes. In her spare time, Devin enjoys embroidery and antique shopping in the city.