Luxe Lighting for Less

If you're anything like me, you love a gorgeous light feature. Above a dining room table, in an entrance hall, or even outdoors, light fixtures can add sparkle and panache to any space. Designers must know we lust after these gorgeous light features because... the prices?? Not so awesome. Venture into any high end lighting store and you'll stagger at the $2,000+ price tag for a favorite chandelier. Thanks, but no thanks.

To the rescue is my favorite discount big box home retailer, IKEA. Their fun, funky features will spice up any space for less. A lot less. With all the cash you save on lighting at IKEA, you can splurge on other things that will elevate your style like gorgeous table linens, candles, or designer seating.

Take for instance the Knappa pendant lights. Starting at $29.99, anyone can afford to try this out over a dining room table or in a smaller room as the center feature. Easy to install, you'll be quick to love this little guy.

If industrial is more your style, you're sure to be a fan of the Foto pendant lamp. The 10" light lists for just $14.99 with the larger 20" size going for $29.99. What an easy add to your kitchen, bar, or dining area. I love the look of this light, and think it would be beautifully paired with florals, stripes, and antiqued wood. If your kitchen and dining room style got a little girly, this is a quick and easy way to add some edge for not a lot of green.

If you want something a little more unique, check out the new Maskros pendant at $89.99. This bad boy is humongous, so go nuts with it in a large room that needs some help. Even more exciting are the light designs the Maskros casts on a ceiling. Check it out!

So traditional is more your style and some of the options above are a bit daunting? Go for this oversized hanging basket option. The Leran pendant comes in two sizes, 11" at $39.99 or 24" at $89.99. The smaller size is perfect for a bar or counter, while the oversized 24" looks great in a den, over a dining table, or even in a bedroom with high ceilings. Try painting your Leran to get a custom look. It would be gorgeous in a gray, white, or high gloss navy.

I say "poo-poo" to those overpriced chandeliers and pendant lights in designer stores. With IKEA by my side, I'm sure to have some left over change to indulge in other purchases. Happy bargain hunting!