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It is perfectly fine for a table lamp to be taller than the headboard; there is no hard-and-fast rule requiring otherwise. When making your choice, balance visual proportions with practical functionality rather than adhering rigidly to design conventions.

The following guidelines can help you determine the ideal height for your bedside lamp:

1. Design "Rules of Thumb"

Traditionally, interior designers suggest that the height of a bedside lamp should be roughly level with or slightly lower than the headboard to maintain visual harmony and a sense of balance. However, choosing a taller lamp is entirely acceptable if it complements the overall proportions of the bed and the room. In some cases, a slightly taller lamp with a unique shape can add drama and a sense of style to the space, provided it does not look awkward or disproportionate relative to the nightstand.

2. Functional Testing (The Most Critical Factor)

Regardless of the headboard's height, the lamp must pass the "eye-level" or "chin-level" test. When you are sitting up in bed leaning against the headboard, the bottom of the lampshade should be level with or slightly below your line of sight. This ensures that light is cast downward onto your book or phone while shielding the bare bulb and preventing harsh glare from shining directly into your eyes.

3. Proportions to Consider

1) Overall Height Benchmark: A common reference standard is for the top of the lamp to be between 58 and 64 inches (approximately 147 to 163 cm) from the floor; this height generally aligns well with standard bed and nightstand dimensions.

2) Nightstand Proportions: The size of the lamp must harmonize with the nightstand itself. Placing a massive table lamp on a petite nightstand creates a top-heavy, precarious look; conversely, placing a tiny lamp on a large nightstand appears disproportionate and out of place. 

3) Switch placement: You should be able to easily reach the light switch while lying in bed; for most people, the switch should ideally be positioned about 21 to 28 inches (approx. 53 to 71 cm) above the mattress surface.

4. What if the headboard is particularly tall?

If the headboard is very tall, pairing it with an equally tall table lamp might look awkward or top-heavy, or make the switch difficult to reach. In this case, consider these alternatives:

1) Wall-mounted or swing-arm lamps: Mounted on the wall or headboard, these save nightstand space and allow you to adjust the light height for optimal reading—unconstrained by the height of the headboard.

2) Pendant lights: Suspending a small pendant light on each side of the bed is a modern, space-saving solution that completely bypasses issues related to headboard height.

Conclusion

There is no need to be bound by the rule that a table lamp must be shorter than the headboard. Instead, measure your space and consider the sightlines from your pillow. If a taller table lamp provides glare-free light, is easy to operate, and looks visually balanced with your nightstand, it is an excellent choice.