The naked light bulb is being hailed as the new must-have in minimalist homes. But while some people might favour the simple honest bulb as a statement of uncluttered chic, the rest of us know it for what it is - an unfinished job. Finding the right lampshade for every bulb in the house is a chore that defeats even the most enthusiastic home decorator and it's not unusual to see houses that have been furnished impeccably with bulbs swinging from ceiling roses in the most important rooms. However, with an ever increasing choice of smart and affordable shades in the shops, there is no excuse for an undressed bulb.

If you are dazzled by the array of shades, and not quite sure how to go about finding one that suits your home, Carol Kelly of Kevin Kelly Interiors advises "Bring a picture of your home to a lighting specialist. A good specialist will be able to advise you on what is appropriate. And it is often a good idea to put lights on a dimmer switch, so you don't have too much strong, unflattering light. And of course, the house dictates what you choose; if it is an old house with high ceilings, chandeliers give wonderful light, but more modern houses with low ceilings usually require something smaller and less imposing."