Here is a video from the Martha Stewart Show where she talks about lamps and gives pretty nice suggestions for shades.

4 shades, 1 lamp

Here are my 4 versions for the same lamp. Each one of them changes the area mood completely just by changing its shade.

Joyfully speaking, this shade can bring bliss to any area. I combined its pipping tone with other primary colors. But if you are not a big fan of these, maybe an eco friendly display might tickle your fancy. Just add small succulents or even terrariums to the table.

Glamour-ify the space. Want to infuse the air of a space with allure? Use silver. This shade made with a resplendent fabric is a good choice when wanting to obtain a little luxury touch. Try adding some mercury vases or figurines.

White on white. Although it might be a little boring for some, try mixing different textures. Here I played with the corrugated surface of the shade, the owl and even the vase pattern. All of these pieces make a great composition because you keep the eye dancing between each one of them.

Zen-like. A simple white drum form of shade is the best to combine in any room. Since I already had the blue jewel tone cushion, I added the elephant for the mood I wanted to obtain. This can be easily turned into a reading corner.