Your morning routine deserves better than shadowy, unflattering light. Trying to apply makeup or get a clean shave under a single ceiling fixture can be frustrating, as it casts shadows across your face. The solution is to bring the light source forward and to the sides, which is exactly what wall lights are designed to do. By placing a bathroom wall light on either side of your mirror, you create even, cross-illumination that lights your face perfectly for any task. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from different styles like sconces and bath bars to the technical details that ensure your lighting is both beautiful and effective.
Key Takeaways
- Layer your light to eliminate shadows: The best way to get flattering, functional light is to place fixtures around your mirror. Use sconces on either side at eye level or a bath bar above the mirror to cast even light for your daily routine.
- Select the right specs for safety and function: Always choose fixtures with an IP44 rating or higher for wet environments. For the best task lighting, use LED bulbs with a color temperature of 3000K-4000K and install a dimmer switch for total control over the room's ambiance.
- Match your fixture to your decor style: Your wall lights are a powerful design tool, not just a utility. Choose a style and finish that complements your faucets, hardware, and overall aesthetic to create a cohesive and polished look.
Why Wall Lights Are Perfect for Your Bathroom
When you think about designing your dream bathroom, lighting might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s one of the most important elements. The right
Wall lights are uniquely suited to solve the bathroom's biggest lighting challenge: the dreaded overhead shadow. A single ceiling light can cast shadows on your face, making tasks like applying makeup or shaving more difficult. By placing lights on the wall, you bring the light source closer to where you need it, creating a more flattering and functional environment. Beyond their practicality, wall lights are a powerful design tool. They can frame a mirror, highlight architectural details, and add a touch of personality that ties your whole look together. Whether you need bright, clear light to get ready for the day or a soft glow to unwind at night, wall lights deliver.
Layer Your Light, Perfect Your Look
The secret to a well-lit room is layering. This design principle involves using multiple lighting sources to build a flexible and balanced atmosphere. In the bathroom, wall lights are essential for creating effective task lighting. When placed on either side of a vanity mirror, they provide even, cross-illumination that eliminates shadows on your face. This setup is ideal for grooming tasks that require precision.
Think of your overhead light as the base layer, providing general light for the whole room. Wall lights are your second, more focused layer. They work in harmony with your ceiling fixture to ensure every corner of the room is properly lit. This layered approach not only improves the room's functionality but also adds depth and dimension to your design, making the space feel more considered and complete.
Create a Relaxing, Spa-Like Atmosphere
Your bathroom should be a sanctuary—a place where you can escape and recharge. The right lighting is key to creating that serene, spa-like feeling, and wall lights are perfect for the job. By installing fixtures with dimmers, you gain complete control over the room's ambiance. You can turn the brightness up when you need to get ready and dial it down for a long, relaxing soak in the tub.
This ability to adjust the light creates a soft, warm glow that instantly makes the space feel more tranquil and intimate. The style of the wall lights themselves also plays a huge role in setting the mood. Choosing fixtures that complement your overall decor helps create a cohesive and polished look. A beautiful set of sconces can feel like jewelry for your walls, adding a final touch of elegance that turns your bathroom into a true personal retreat.
Find Your Style: Types of Bathroom Wall Lights
Choosing the right wall lights for your bathroom can feel like a big decision, but it’s really about matching the fixture to your needs and your personal style. The perfect light does more than just brighten up the room; it sets the mood, helps you with your daily routine, and pulls your whole design together. Whether you’re drawn to the clean lines of a modern sconce or the all-in-one functionality of a backlit mirror, there’s a style out there that’s just right for your space.
Think about what you need the light to do. Are you looking for soft, ambient light for relaxing baths, or do you need bright, focused light for your morning routine at the vanity? Many bathrooms benefit from a mix of both. Let’s walk through the most popular types of bathroom wall lights to help you find the perfect fit. From sleek bath bars to classic vanity lights, each style offers a unique look and function to complete your bathroom oasis.
Modern Sconces
Wall sconces are fixtures that extend out from the wall, and they are incredibly versatile. You can use them to frame a mirror, highlight an architectural feature, or simply add a layer of warm, ambient light to the room. Modern sconces often feature minimalist designs with clean lines, geometric shapes, and finishes like matte black, brass, or chrome. Placing a sconce on each side of your vanity mirror is a classic designer trick. This setup provides even, cross-illumination that minimizes shadows, making it perfect for getting ready in the morning. They’re a beautiful way to add both function and a touch of elegance to your bathroom.
Vanity Lights
Vanity lights are the workhorses of bathroom lighting. These fixtures are specifically designed to be placed above or beside your mirror to provide clear, direct light for tasks like applying makeup, shaving, or styling your hair. They come in a huge range of styles, from single-light fixtures to multi-bulb bars that span the width of your mirror. A good vanity light casts bright, even light that illuminates your face without creating harsh shadows. It also contributes significantly to the overall brightness of the room, ensuring your bathroom feels open and well-lit no matter the time of day.
LED Wall Lights
If you’re looking for efficiency and longevity, LED wall lights are the way to go. While they might have a higher upfront cost, their benefits make them a smart long-term investment. LED lights use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last for years, meaning you won’t be changing bulbs nearly as often. They also run much cooler, which is a great safety feature for a busy space like a bathroom. The technology behind LED lighting allows for incredibly slim and creative fixture designs, giving you a wide array of modern and minimalist options to choose from.
Bath Bars
A bath bar is a linear light fixture that can be mounted horizontally above a mirror or vertically on either side. These lights are fantastic for providing broad, consistent illumination across the entire vanity area, which is especially useful if you have a wide mirror or a double-sink setup. Their streamlined, simple design makes them a perfect match for contemporary and modern bathrooms. Bath bars are designed to deliver bright, even light that mimics natural daylight, creating an ideal environment for all your grooming tasks while keeping the look clean and uncluttered.
Backlit Mirrors
For a truly modern and seamless look, consider a backlit mirror. This is a brilliant two-in-one solution that combines a mirror with integrated LED lighting. The light shines from behind the mirror or through etched portions of the glass, creating a soft, halo-like glow. This type of lighting is incredibly flattering because it illuminates your face evenly without casting any shadows. Backlit mirrors are a fantastic space-saver and add a touch of high-tech luxury to any bathroom. They provide excellent task lighting while also serving as a beautiful source of ambient décor.
What to Look for in a Bathroom Wall Light
Choosing the right wall light for your bathroom goes beyond just picking a style you love. Because this room deals with moisture and requires specific types of light for different tasks, there are a few key technical details to keep in mind. Thinking about safety, brightness, and energy efficiency from the start will help you find a fixture that is not only beautiful but also perfectly functional for your space.
Getting the lighting right can completely change the feel of your bathroom, turning a purely practical room into a personal sanctuary. From applying makeup with precision to enjoying a relaxing bath, the right light makes all the difference. We’ll walk through the most important factors to consider, including safety ratings for wet environments, how to get the brightness just right without harsh glare, and why features like color temperature and dimmers can give you complete control over the room’s atmosphere. Considering these elements will ensure your new lighting is a smart and stylish investment.
Understand IP Ratings for Wet Environments
Water and electricity don’t mix, so safety is the top priority in bathroom lighting. This is where IP (Ingress Protection) ratings come in. An IP rating tells you how well a light fixture is protected against solids (like dust) and liquids (like water). Bathroom lights need a higher IP rating, especially the closer they are to a water source like a shower or sink. It's very important to choose and install bathroom lights carefully to stay safe. Always have a qualified electrician do any electrical work in your bathroom to ensure everything is up to code and installed correctly.
Get the Brightness Just Right
A single overhead light often isn’t enough for a bathroom, as it can cast unflattering shadows when you’re looking in the mirror. The best approach is layered lighting. For your wall lights, especially around the vanity, the light should be bright and spread out well, without causing a harsh glare. This provides excellent task lighting around the wash basin for things like shaving or putting on makeup. Placing sconces on either side of the mirror at eye level gives you even, shadow-free illumination right where you need it most.
Choose Energy-Efficient Options
When it comes to efficiency and longevity, LED lighting is the clear winner for bathrooms. While the initial cost might be slightly higher than traditional incandescent bulbs, the long-term benefits are significant. LED lighting is far more energy-efficient, which means lower electricity bills. It also has a much longer lifespan, so you won’t be changing bulbs nearly as often. Plus, LEDs run cooler, making them a safer option for enclosed fixtures. Their design flexibility and environmental benefits make them the best all-around choice for a bathroom remodel.
Select the Right Color Temperature
The color of the light itself plays a huge role in how your bathroom looks and feels. This is measured in Kelvins (K), and LEDs come in a wide range of color temperatures, from the warm, cozy glow of a sunset to the crisp, cool look of daylight. For tasks that require accurate color perception, like applying makeup, it’s best to choose LEDs that mimic natural daylight (around 3000K to 4000K). This clean, white light helps you see true-to-life colors. For a more relaxing, spa-like vibe, you might opt for a warmer temperature (around 2700K).
Consider Dimmers for a Flexible Mood
Want your bathroom to be bright and functional in the morning but serene and relaxing at night? A dimmer switch is the answer. Using dimmer switches with your LED lights gives you complete control over the room's mood and brightness. You can turn the lights up to full intensity when you’re getting ready for the day and then dim them down for a calming bath in the evening. This simple addition makes your lighting incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the atmosphere with the turn of a dial.
Find the Right Size for Your Space
Scale and proportion are key to making your bathroom lighting look intentional and balanced. A light fixture that’s too small will look lost, while one that’s too large can overwhelm the space. When placing sconces beside a mirror, a good rule of thumb is to choose fixtures that are about three-quarters the height of the mirror. If you’re using a single bath bar above the mirror, it should be at least three-quarters of the mirror’s width. Proper sizing ensures there's enough light, especially at the vanity, and contributes to a cohesive design.
Explore Popular Design Styles
Choosing a wall light is about more than just illumination; it’s about defining your bathroom's personality. The right fixture can tie your whole design together, whether you're aiming for a serene spa or a bold, dramatic space. Let's walk through some popular design styles to help you find the perfect match for your vision.
Modern Minimalist
If you love clean lines and uncluttered spaces, modern minimalist design is for you. This style is all about simplicity, focusing on sleek forms and neutral colors. Think geometric shapes, integrated LEDs, and finishes like matte black, chrome, or brushed nickel. Modern vanity lights and bath bars offer high-quality lighting that provides a sophisticated, showroom look without the fuss. They create a calm and orderly atmosphere by eliminating unnecessary details, letting the simple elegance of the fixture shine. This approach is perfect for creating a serene, spa-like retreat where you can start and end your day feeling refreshed and centered. It’s a timeless choice that feels both current and enduring.
Industrial Elements
For a look that’s a bit more raw and edgy, consider industrial-style wall lights. This aesthetic draws inspiration from old factories and warehouses, featuring materials like exposed bulbs, dark metals, and utilitarian shapes. Think sconces with metal cages, pipe-like fixtures, or finishes in oil-rubbed bronze and weathered steel. These pieces are perfect for making a statement and adding character to your bathroom. You can pair them with other unique accessories, like a concrete countertop or a reclaimed wood vanity, to complete the look. Industrial lighting isn't just for lofts; it can add an unexpected and compelling layer of texture and history to any modern bathroom design.
Vintage-Inspired Fixtures
Bring a touch of timeless charm and elegance to your bathroom with vintage-inspired fixtures. This style is all about celebrating classic designs from past eras, from Victorian grace to mid-century simplicity. Look for details like curved arms, ornate backplates, and beautiful glass shades in milk, frosted, or seeded finishes. Candlestick sconces, for example, can give your bathroom a classic, old-fashioned look that feels both warm and inviting. Finishes like aged brass, polished nickel, and antique bronze enhance the nostalgic feel. These lights work beautifully in traditional homes but can also add a soft, romantic contrast in more contemporary spaces. Explore different brands to find fixtures that capture that perfect historical touch.
Transitional Designs
Can't decide between classic and contemporary? You don't have to. Transitional design beautifully blends elements from both worlds to create a look that is balanced, timeless, and comfortable. These fixtures often feature simple, sophisticated lines from modern design combined with the warmth and elegance of traditional styles. The key is creating a cohesive space that feels both fresh and familiar. This style also embraces layered lighting, using a mix of ambient, task, and accent lights to make the bathroom both functional and beautiful. A transitional wall light can easily complement a wide range of furniture & décor, making it a versatile and enduring choice for any home.
Art Deco Influences
If you want to add a dose of glamour and sophistication to your bathroom, look no further than Art Deco. This style is defined by bold geometric patterns, rich materials, and a touch of opulence. Think symmetrical sconces with sharp angles, sunburst motifs, and frosted or ribbed glass. Finishes like polished chrome, lacquered black, and gleaming brass are hallmarks of this luxurious aesthetic. You can use decorative lights like ornate wall sconces to make your bathroom look truly grand. An Art Deco fixture from our lighting collection is more than just a light source; it’s a piece of jewelry for your wall, making a dramatic statement that is both elegant and unforgettable.
Mixed Metals and Finishes
One of the most exciting trends in interior design is the art of mixing metals. Gone are the days when every fixture and piece of hardware had to match perfectly. Combining different finishes adds depth, personality, and a curated feel to your bathroom. Imagine pairing matte black sconces with a polished brass faucet or brushed nickel lights with bronze cabinet hardware. The key is to choose one dominant metal and use one or two others as accents. This approach allows you to combine different materials and create a space that feels unique and thoughtfully designed. It’s a fantastic way to add visual interest and show off your personal style.
Installation 101: Getting Placement Right
You’ve found the perfect wall lights, and now it’s time to bring them to life in your bathroom. Proper installation is about more than just getting the lights on the wall—it’s about placing them perfectly to create flattering, functional light. Getting the placement right ensures your bathroom is both beautiful and safe. Here’s what you need to know to get it done.
Measure Your Space Correctly
Before you even think about drilling holes, grab a tape measure. The right lighting effect is all about balance—not too dim, not too bright. Start by measuring your vanity and mirror. If you’re placing sconces on either side of the mirror, they should be at about eye level and spaced 30 to 40 inches apart to cast an even glow on your face. For a light fixture above the mirror, choose one that’s about 75% of the mirror's width. This ensures the light is proportional and doesn't overwhelm the space. Thinking about these dimensions will help you select the perfect bathroom lighting for a well-balanced room.
Follow Standard Mounting Heights
Where you place your lights makes a huge difference in how they perform. Placing lights directly on or above the mirror is a great way to fix common lighting issues and light your face evenly for daily routines. As a general rule, if you're installing sconces on either side of your mirror, the center of the fixtures should be at eye level, typically around 60 to 66 inches from the floor. If you’re mounting a light bar above the mirror, place it about 75 to 80 inches from the floor. This positioning helps eliminate those unflattering shadows under your eyes, chin, and cheeks, giving you clear, consistent light.
What to Know About Wiring
When it comes to electrical work, safety is everything. Bathroom wiring is particularly tricky because of the presence of water and steam. That’s why it’s always best to have a qualified electrician handle any electrical work in your bathroom. They will ensure the installation is safe and meets all local building codes, which are in place for your protection. If you’re replacing an existing fixture, you might be able to do it yourself, but for any new wiring or moving of electrical boxes, calling a professional is the smartest move. It gives you peace of mind knowing the job is done right.
Keep Safety Standards in Mind
Bathrooms are wet environments, so your light fixtures need to be built for it. This is where IP (Ingress Protection) ratings come in. Unlike lights for your living room, bathroom lights must have a higher IP rating to withstand moisture. You should look for fixtures with at least an IP44 rating, which means they are protected from water splashes from any direction. This is especially important for lights near your tub, shower, or sink. Using properly rated fixtures not only ensures safety but also helps your beautiful new lights last longer in a steamy environment.
Decide Between DIY and Professional Installation
So, should you install your new lights yourself or call in a pro? If you're simply swapping out an old fixture for a new one and you're comfortable with basic wiring, a DIY installation might be a good way to save some money. However, if the job involves running new wires, moving a junction box, or if you're just not confident in your electrical skills, hiring a licensed electrician is the way to go. Think of it as an investment in your home’s safety and your own peace of mind. A professional will get the job done quickly, correctly, and up to code.
Keep Your Lights Safe and Clean
Once you’ve chosen and installed your perfect bathroom wall lights, a little care will keep them looking great and functioning safely for years. Because bathrooms are wet environments, maintenance involves more than just a quick dusting. Here’s what you need to know to protect your fixtures and keep them shining bright.
What Are IP Ratings and Bathroom Zones?
Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, which is why bathroom lighting has specific safety standards. These standards revolve around IP ratings and bathroom "zones." An IP (Ingress Protection) rating tells you how well a fixture is protected against solids (like dust) and liquids (like water). The rating has two numbers—the first is for solids, the second for liquids. The higher the number, the better the protection.
To know what IP rating you need, you have to understand the zones. Think of your bathroom as being divided into areas based on their proximity to water:
- Zone 0 is right inside the bath or shower. Any light here must be low-voltage and have a high rating of at least IP67, meaning it’s safe to be fully submerged.
- Zone 1 is the area directly above the bath or shower. Fixtures here need a minimum rating of IP44 to protect against splashes.
- Zone 2 covers the space just outside the shower, bath, or sink. These lights also require at least an IP44 rating to stay safe from steam and splashes.
Simple Cleaning Tips for Your Fixtures
Keeping your bathroom lights clean prevents dust and grime from dulling their shine. For most fixtures, a weekly wipe-down with a soft, damp cloth is all you need. It’s best to avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as they can strip the finish off your beautiful hardware and fixtures. If you have glass shades that are looking a little cloudy, a simple mixture of white vinegar and water will cut through the buildup and restore their sparkle. Always make sure the light is turned off and cool to the touch before you start cleaning.
How to Replace Bulbs Safely
When a bulb burns out, safety should be your top priority. Before you do anything, turn off the power to the light at the circuit breaker—don’t just rely on the wall switch. Use a sturdy step ladder to reach the fixture, and never stand on a wet floor or a wobbly chair. When you remove the old bulb, check its wattage and base type. Your replacement bulb should be compatible with the fixture’s requirements to prevent overheating or damage. Once the new bulb is securely in place, you can flip the circuit breaker back on.
Ensure Your Lights Last
Choosing the right bulb can make a huge difference in your light’s longevity and performance. LED bulbs are a fantastic choice for bathrooms because they can last for 25,000 hours or more, meaning you won’t have to climb that step ladder very often. They’re also incredibly energy-efficient. For the most versatile and relaxing atmosphere, consider pairing your LED lights with a dimmer switch. This allows you to adjust the brightness to suit your mood, whether you’re getting ready in the morning or winding down with a bath, and can even help extend the life of your bulbs.
Find Your Perfect Bathroom Wall Light
Finding the right wall light is the final, exciting step in bringing your bathroom vision to life. With so many options out there, it helps to know what to look for. Thinking about the brands you love, the budget you’re working with, and the support you’ll get after your purchase will make the decision process smooth and simple. This ensures you end up with a fixture you not only love the look of but also feel confident about installing in your home. Let’s walk through how to choose the perfect light with these key considerations in mind.
Discover Leading Brands
When you start your search, it’s a great idea to look at established brands known for their quality and design. Reputable brands often mean better craftsmanship, more reliable performance, and designs that are both beautiful and built to last. Instead of getting lost in endless search results, you can focus your attention on collections from trusted names. We’ve curated a selection of top-tier lighting brands to make it easy for you to find fixtures that match your style, whether you’re looking for something sleek and modern or classic and elegant. Exploring these brands helps you see what’s possible and find a light that truly fits your space.
Find Options for Every Budget
Your budget is a practical and important part of any design project. The great news is that you don’t have to compromise on style to find a light that fits your finances. There are fantastic options available at nearly every price point. Start by browsing a wide collection of vanity lights to get a feel for what’s available. To make sure you’re getting the best value, look for policies like our 110% price match guarantee, which ensures you’re not just finding a light you love, but you’re also getting it at the best possible price. This way, you can invest in quality lighting with complete peace of mind.
Understand Your Warranty
Before you click "buy," take a moment to understand the warranty and return policies. A good warranty is a sign that the company stands behind its products, giving you confidence in your purchase. It protects you from potential defects and ensures you have support if anything goes wrong. It’s also helpful to know what the return process looks like, just in case the fixture doesn’t work in your space as you’d hoped. We believe in making your experience as seamless as possible, which is why we offer free shipping across Canada and are always here to help with any questions you might have about your new fixture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the right bathroom lighting can feel like a big decision, but a little guidance goes a long way. By steering clear of a few common missteps, you can create a space that’s both beautiful and perfectly functional. Let’s walk through the mistakes to avoid so you can light your bathroom with confidence and select fixtures that you’ll love for years to come. Getting these details right from the start saves you from the hassle of a do-over and ensures your bathroom is a place you truly enjoy spending time in, whether you're getting ready for the day or winding down at night.
Choosing a Light That's Too Bright or Too Dim
Finding the right balance in brightness is essential for a functional bathroom. If your lighting is too dim, everyday tasks like shaving or applying makeup become a challenge. On the other hand, a light that’s blindingly bright can make the space feel harsh and clinical. The goal is to have enough clear, functional light at the vanity without overwhelming the room. A great way to achieve this is by installing fixtures on a dimmer switch. This gives you bright, direct light when you need it and the flexibility to soften the mood for a relaxing bath.
Placing Lights in the Wrong Spot
We’ve all stood in front of a mirror under a single overhead light that casts unflattering shadows on our faces. This is one of the most common placement mistakes. A lone fixture in the middle of the ceiling creates shadows right where you need clear visibility. The best approach is to place your primary task lighting around the mirror. Installing sconces on either side of the mirror at eye level provides even, shadow-free light. If you don’t have space on the sides, a bath bar light mounted directly above the mirror is another excellent option that directs light forward onto your face.
Picking the Wrong Color Temperature
The color temperature of your lightbulb dramatically affects how colors appear in your bathroom—including your skin tone and makeup. For tasks that require color accuracy, it’s best to choose bulbs that mimic natural daylight. Look for a color temperature between 3000K (soft white) and 4000K (cool white). This neutral range provides a crisp, clean light that isn’t too yellow or too blue, ensuring you see everything clearly and accurately. Warm, yellow-toned lights are great for creating a cozy atmosphere but should be reserved for secondary, ambient fixtures rather than your main vanity light.
Ignoring IP Safety Ratings
This one isn’t about style—it’s about safety. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, which is why bathroom light fixtures have a special safety designation called an Ingress Protection (IP) rating. This two-digit number indicates how well a fixture is protected against solids (like dust) and liquids (like water). Any light installed in a damp or wet location, especially near a tub or shower, must have an appropriate IP rating. For most bathroom areas, you should look for a rating of at least IP44. Always check the product specifications and follow local electrical safety standards to keep your home safe.
Forgetting to Match Your Decor Style
After you’ve sorted out the technical details, don’t forget that your light fixtures are a major design element. A common mistake is treating them as an afterthought instead of an integral part of your bathroom’s design. Your wall lights should complement the overall aesthetic you’re creating. Think about how the fixture’s finish coordinates with your faucets and cabinet hardware. Whether your style is modern minimalist, vintage-inspired, or industrial, choosing a unique light fixture can make a statement and tie the entire room together, turning a purely functional space into a stylish retreat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to install wall lights around my mirror? For the most flattering light, the goal is to illuminate your face evenly without creating shadows. The best way to do this is by placing two wall sconces on either side of your mirror, with the center of each light sitting at about eye level. If you don't have space on the sides, a single bath bar mounted above the mirror is a great alternative. Just make sure it's wide enough to cast light across the entire mirror.
How do I choose a light that's bright enough without being harsh? The secret is to use a dimmer switch. This gives you complete control over the brightness, allowing you to have bright, clear light when you're getting ready and a soft, warm glow when you want to relax. For the vanity area, you want a fixture that provides direct task lighting, and pairing it with a dimmer ensures you can always adjust it to the perfect level for any situation.
Do all my bathroom lights need a special safety rating? Not necessarily all of them, but any light near a water source definitely does. Fixtures installed close to your shower, tub, or sink need to have an IP rating of at least IP44, which means they are protected from water splashes. This is a critical safety measure in a damp environment. Always check the product specifications before you buy, and when in doubt, have a professional electrician confirm you're meeting safety standards.
Is it okay to mix metal finishes for my lights and faucets? Absolutely! Mixing metals is a fantastic way to add depth and a custom feel to your bathroom. The key to getting it right is to choose one dominant metal to be your main finish and then select one or two other metals to use as accents. For example, you could pair matte black sconces with a brass faucet for a look that feels intentional and stylish rather than mismatched.
What's the difference between a vanity light and a wall sconce? Think of a vanity light as the workhorse specifically designed for the mirror area. It's often a linear or multi-bulb fixture that provides bright, direct light for your daily routine. A wall sconce is generally more versatile. While you can use a pair of sconces as vanity lighting, they can also be used individually or in other parts of the bathroom to provide softer, ambient light or to highlight a specific feature.
