A closet isn’t really complete until you’ve got some lighting installed, and choosing the right fixture from the many closet lighting ideas available is totally up to you.
There’s no strict rule for closet lighting, so you can experiment with pendants, recessed lights, spotlights, or whatever fits your vibe. It’s all about what works best for your space and your style.
Sure, natural light is awesome if you can get it, but since that’s pretty rare, going with some good overhead ambient lighting is the next best thing.
Just remember, lighting temperature is important. Go for 2700k bulbs in soft white or warm white to make sure your clothes look true to their colors and keep things practical.
I’ve put together a list of 20 stylish and functional closet lighting ideas to help you light up your wardrobe space.
1) Let It Shine and Sparkle
Credit: @visualcomfort
A classic crystal light fixture is a sure way to add a bit of glamour to your walk-in closet.
Plus, if you’ve got a mirror in there, it’ll help the light bounce around and make the space sparkle.
2) Go for Height
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Opt for a long chandelier to fill up that empty vertical space and draw the eyes up.
It’s a modern and fun way to make a statement in your closet.
3) Add a Table Lamp
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If you’ve got room for a table lamp, think about adding one.
It’ll give off a cozy warm glow in the evening and can be a great alternative to overhead lights in the morning.
4) Give Puck Lights a Try
Credit: @caclosets
Small puck lights can really light up those closet shelves, making it easy to see what’s on each one, even in a small but super organized closet.
5) Give a Glass Chandelier a Go
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A glass chandelier is an elegant addition to your closet!
The glass fixture is perfect if you want something sleek and elegant without taking up much visual space.
If you see your closet as a personal retreat, think about adding a small chandelier. It’ll add a touch of personality and make the space feel special.
6) Make the Most of Natural Light
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If your closet has windows, you can keep the lighting pretty minimal and just enjoy all that natural sunlight coming in.
Having a window is great because natural light will show off your clothes and accessories in their true colors and create fewer shadows.
In this case, a simple globe-shaped flush mount is a perfect choice. It adds a bit of style to an otherwise plain room.
A short pendant light or a flush mount fixture can also be a great practical option.
When space is tight, people often store things as high as they can, so using the space efficiently becomes really important.
7) Hang Up Some Sconces
Credit: @caclosets
If you’re designing a closet from scratch, think about adding sconces. It’s important to plan ahead for wiring or outlets.
In smaller spaces, it’s all about using every bit of space effectively, so make sure your design includes good lighting for your clothes.
8) Choose a Pendant Light with Personality
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Another one among great closet lighting ideas is to pick a pendant light with character to give your closet some personality.
A geometric design can instantly make the space more interesting and provide plenty of light.
9) Stick on Some LED Strips
Credit: @laclosetdesign
Stick some LED strips on your shelves to easily see all your clothes and accessories, even when it’s dark outside.
It’ll help you keep track of everything and make it all easily accessible.
10) Go for an Antique Look
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If you’re into a more classic vibe, choose an antique-style pendant light.
It’s charming and its small size fits perfectly in compact spaces like a closet.
11) Get Glamorous
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If you’re into a more dramatic look, why not go for a statement light fixture?
It can truly be a real piece of art and will make your closet feel like a high-end boutique.
12) Try Two Pendant Lights
Credit: @laclosetdesign
If your closet is big enough, you might as well go all out with lighting.
Two or three gorgeous pendant lights can really add a touch of glam and light up both ends of the space, making it easy to find what you need.
13) Add a Wow Factor
Credit: @kateabtdesign
Give a simple closet a standout look with a striking pendant light, like this standout design.
If you can’t change the closet itself, let your lighting show off your personal style.
14) Think About Adding a Skylight
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Natural light is unbeatable, but since we can’t always count on it, adding a skylight or two can really brighten up your closet and give it a fresh, airy vibe during the day.
Lantern-style skylights are great for directing light and work well in garden and loft extensions. Their pyramid shape can make a room feel more spacious by adding height.
Just remember, skylights need to have toughened or safety glass, and they must meet building regulations for insulation to prevent heat loss.
15) Go for a Warm Approach to Closet Lighting
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Don’t underestimate the power of good lighting—it’s crucial for your well-being and eye health, as well as for the look of your space.
Closet lighting should be bright enough to handle those dark winter mornings, but avoid harsh white light. Go for a warmer tone and consider using dimmers so you can adjust the brightness to suit any time of day.
16) Opt for Light-Reflective Surfaces
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When setting up a dressing room, focus on lighting and light-reflective surfaces to brighten up a windowless or small space and make it feel more inviting.
Use warm recessed LEDs, mirrored doors, and decorative glass finishes to boost light and create a more spacious feel in your walk-in wardrobe or dressing area.
17) Add Layers of Lighting Inside Your Drawers and Dividers
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LED lighting inside drawers is perfect for keeping things organized and easy to find.
Adding dividers for shoes, hats, and gloves, plus scarf rails, can be really helpful.
Just make sure to install them in a way that doesn’t clutter the space or get in your way.
18) Use Mirrors to Reflect Light
Credit: @laclosetdesign
Mirrors are a fantastic design choice—they instantly add glamour and interest while reflecting light and making your space feel larger.
They not only bring a touch of luxury but also enhance the lighting, creating a beautiful halo effect and making the area feel more spacious.
19) Use Vertical Lighting in a Big Closet
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Vertical lighting and putting the light source at the front of your wardrobe are amazing closet lighting ideas. They are perfect for lighting up your whole wardrobe without any shadows.
LED lights that have an opaque cover help with giving the dark timber a cool, modern look.
20) Add a Hint of Luxury with Lighting Sensors
Credit: @caclosets
Good lighting is key for seeing all your clothes clearly and adding a touch of luxury to your bedroom.
Lighting sensors that turn on automatically when you enter the room can really enhance that feeling.
To get a well-lit closet, experiment with multiple layers of lighting, including ambient, decorative, and task lights.
Good lighting is crucial—not just for making your closet look great but also for your well-being and eye health!
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