Pop quiz: What do the lights on your front porch look like? If you're drawing a blank, don't beat yourself up too much — chances are, whatever fixtures came with the property (or were installed by the past owners) are entirely forgettable. In fact, we'd hazard a guess that the only people who can accurately describe their outdoor lights from memory are probably those who picked them out themselves.
But it doesn't have to be this way! Replacing light fixtures is one of our favorite weekend tune-ups throughout the house because it's relatively easy to accomplish (and if you're renting, it's one of those rare home improvements that you can bring with you when you leave). Outdoor lighting is no exception — in fact, it makes even more of an impact on your home's overall look and feel because it's one of the first things guests come in contact with when approaching your home.
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We've rounded up 10 of our all-time favorite sources for distinctive, stylish outdoor lighting options, from wall sconces and pendants to post lights and lanterns. Now you're only a few clicks away from brightening up your entire home's look — from the outside in.
The Best Places to Shop for Outdoor Lighting
1. Lumens
We're big fans of any online shop that does one thing and does it exceptionally well. Case in point: Lumens. Lighting is the name of the game for this shop, and its outdoor category doesn't disappoint. Whether you're searching for a standard outdoor fixture or something more off the wall (literally), like landscape lights, portable LED light torches, motion sensor lights, or even outdoor floor lamps (yep, that's a thing), look no further.
2. Rejuvenation
Is that a vintage estate sale find? Nope, it's just another retro-cool discovery from Rejuvenation. The architecturally inspired site has more than a few antique-y outdoor semiflush pendants and sconces that will add serious curb appeal to your home and make your guests do a double-take.
Our pick: Rejuvenation Kestrel LED Ceiling Fan, $519
3. Walmart
If you're not looking to break the bank, Walmart has an impressive selection of outdoor decor — especially lights. It also has a great selection of outdoor lighting accessories for when you need to stock up on light bulbs or replace your fixture chain. Be sure to check out Walmart's security lights too.
From sophisticated statement pendants to hardworking sconces and twinkly string lights, One Kings Lane has a robust outdoor lighting category to suit every type of alfresco entertaining.
5. Perigold
If you're in the mood to splurge, we can't recommend Perigold enough. Any outdoor light you choose from its eclectic and elevated selection will instantly become the conversation piece of your outdoor area.
6. Birch Lane
Farmhouse-chic fans, rejoice: Birch Lane's outdoor offerings all seem like something Joanna Gaines would approve of, and most styles come in a variety of finishes so you can brush up on your trendy metal-mixing right from the front door.
Our pick: Birch Lane Audrey Wall Light, $90
7. Schoolhouse
Not to play favorites, but it's no secret that we have a major soft spot for Schoolhouse. It manages to pack just as much personality into its outdoor lighting as its designer-favored indoor fixtures so your home can make a strong first impression. If you're a fan of the midcentury look (or if you just love color), Schoolhouse will deliver the goods.
Our pick: Allegheny Indoor/Outdoor Sconce, $279
8. Lamps Plus
What's in a name? Lamps Plus not only has an unrivaled selection when it comes to outdoor light fixtures but its stock is also pretty budget-friendly without looking inexpensive. Whatever shape strikes your fancy, you're likely to find at least a few affordable options that mimic your inspo at Lamps Plus, from urban industrial styles to more traditional and ornate ones.
Shades of Light is another super-focused super source for all things illumination. Because of its wide range of price points to fit any redecorating project, we tend to turn here first when looking for outdoor options. Plus, it has one of the most robust outdoor hanging light categories we've seen, with unique drum-shade silhouettes that look like something we'd expect to find in a boho living room rather than out on the veranda. (Talk about bringing the indoors out.)
10. Joss & Main
Boho wicker pendant lights? Check. Cape Cod-style lanterns? Check. Funky decorative snowflake string lights? Check. Have we made our point yet? Joss & Main doesn't skimp when it comes to outdoor lighting. In fact, the toughest part of picking a new fixture for your front porch or back patio will undoubtedly be narrowing down all the eye-catching options.
Our pick: Joss & Main Marie Steel Wall Light, $304
