This Christmassy star-shaped lamp shade from IKEA sold out almost instantly last year – and now it’s back in an elevated linen version
But better grab yours quick before it's gone again!
As we’re getting ready for the end of October, we’re also becoming increasingly more conscious that it’s just 9 weeks till Christmas. At this point, you can’t blame us for thinking about Christmas decor, and specifically the Christmas decoration that quickly sold out this time last year – the IKEA STRÅLA lamp shade.
The Scandi-style XL-sized paper lantern in a seven-pointed star shape is back in stores, but we don't think it'll stick around for long. This year, the classic we know and love dropped alongside a slightly more elevated alternative covered in a beige-toned fabric in a linen style – naturally, we’re obsessed!
Selling for as little as £7, the 70 centimetres-wide piece of decor is the perfect budget Christmas decorating idea if you ask us.
The IKEA STRÅLA lamp shade is a versatile piece that can be used with most table lamp bases or even better yet, hung in the window or on your staircase railing as DIY content creator Joanna Fletcher of @project_34_selfbuild on Instagram has done. To add extra sparkle to her IKEA hack, she uses remotely controlled puck lights (like these Bawoo Wireless LED Puck Lights from Amazon selling for £14.99 for a set of six) inside each star.
The oversized Christmas decor trend
But these oversized star lamp shades from IKEA are not the only XL-sized Christmas trend. In fact, bows and baubles are becoming bigger and bigger with each Christmas.
‘There's definitely been a noticeable rise in popularity when it comes to oversized Christmas decorations,’ confirms Sam Sutherland, Flitch interior stylist. ‘Whether it's large-scale stars, bows, or even oversized wreaths and baubles, the trend has really taken off. In recent years, people have started to view their homes as an extension of their personal style, and the shift towards bolder, larger-than-life decor is a reflection of this desire to make a striking visual impact during the festive season.’
How to style extra large Christmas decorations
If you are going to decorate your home with the likes of the IKEA STRÅLA lamp shades or bigger than life bows, it’s important to style them well so that they don’t look out of place in your home or overwhelm your space.
Get the Ideal Home Newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.
‘Balance is key,’ Sam starts. ‘To avoid overwhelming the room, pair large pieces with more subtle, understated elements. For example, if you have an oversized bow on your tree, complement it with simple baubles in a cohesive colour palette. If you have a grand entrance, oversized wreaths or garlands around the door can make a dramatic statement. The key is to create a sense of cohesion so that the oversized elements feel integrated rather than overpowering.’
She also has an additional idea on how to style IKEA’s starry lamp shades. ‘You could make a feature wall using oversized stars, allowing them to be the focal point, while keeping the rest of the decor minimal.
And if you don’t have an IKEA store near you and are liking the original paper star lanterns, here are a few alternatives that we love which you can invest in instead.
Top alternative picks
Available in a few different shapes, sizes and even colours, the Cox & Cox light-up paper stars come with a battery pack which will light it for you, no Amazon puck lights needed. But you will need three AAA batteries to get this 70s-inspired star glowing.
With a 60 centimetre diameter, this paper star lampshade is almost as big as the IKEA alternative. With two points of the star shy, this design is for those that love their patterns - as it comes in several mosaic-inspired motifs in a myriad of colours. Beautiful!
With a very similar cut-out design as the original IKEA STRÅLA paper lamp shade, this set from Lights4fun comes in a set of three, featuring different sizes to mix it up. Each of the trio also comes equipped with a battery pack so with two AA batteries each, you don't have to worry about illuminating these.
Are you getting as excited for Christmas as we are? The countdown is on.
Sara Hesikova has been a Content Editor at Ideal Home since June 2024, starting at the title as a News Writer in July 2023.
Graduating from London College of Fashion with a bachelor’s degree in fashion journalism in 2016, she got her start in niche fashion and lifestyle magazines like Glass and Alvar as a writer and editor before making the leap into interiors, working with the likes of 91 Magazine and copywriting for luxury bed linen brand Yves Delorme among others.
-
9 small but effective ways to make your home a healthier place for you and your family
Your home should protect your physical and mental health – so here’s what you can do right now
By Vanessa Richmond
-
Experts recommend adding chilli powder to your bird feeder this winter - here's why it's an easy pest deterrent hack
Let birds rule to roost when it comes to your bird feeder this winter
By Kezia Reynolds
-
I tried this 2-in-1 vacuum to see if it could replace my mop – here's what impressed me, and what didn't
It pleasantly surprised me, but it's not without its flaws
By Jullia Joson
-
9 small but effective ways to make your home a healthier place for you and your family
Your home should protect your physical and mental health – so here’s what you can do right now
By Vanessa Richmond
-
9 unexpected household items interior stylists are turning into Christmas decor - get a new look with things you already have
You don't have to spend a great deal to get your home kitted out for the festive season this year
By Ellis Cochrane
-
Grind’s sell out advent calendar is back in stock for christmas - here’s why it's a must-have gift for any coffee-addicts
Enjoy a cup a day to welcome the Christmas countdown
By Kezia Reynolds
-
Do air purifiers work better on the floor or up on a desk? The right choice will make your appliance more efficient, say experts
Here's how to get the most out of your appliance
By Jullia Joson
-
Thought you missed out on the B&M Neom electric diffuser dupes? Think again! Here's where to nab one for less
Treat yourself to fragrant luxe for less
By Kezia Reynolds
-
Colourful Christmas trees are already taking over the upcoming festive season – this is how to embrace the bold trend
Who says your Christmas tree has to be green?
By Sara Hesikova
-
Aldi Christmas candles are dropping this week - and the alternative to The White Company's ceramic candle is the one to look out for
The quiet luxury candle from Aldi is the one we're backing as this year's sellout
By Kezia Reynolds
-
Do air purifiers remove smells? Yes, but you need to look for these key features
Don't forget to watch out for these must-have factors
By Jullia Joson