The reason why recessed lights are "the worst" over a vanity is because if you are a woman primarily using the mirror to get ready and apply makeup, direct over head lighting will create shadows on your face. For general lighting, it's perfectly fine in a bathroom.

The client we designed this space for was a male and so that's why the recessed works in this bathroom. The number of recessed lights needed will depend on the width of your vanity cabinetry. In this space, a third one is needed in the center because there would be a dark area in the middle since the other lights centered over the vanity sinks.

You can always do the recessed lights along with a light fixture over the mirror or sconces on either side of the mirror.

If you can give me a little more information about the space you are working with, I might be able to help more!

Please could you give information on what type of lighting is the best for a master bath where there is a woman.

The best type of fixture for a woman in a master bath would be a sconce on either side of the mirror like in this photo:



Here is a good guide that also talks about color temperature as well:

http://www.lightsearch.com/resources/lightguides/bathrooms.html

I know, those sconces are beautiful! But, I am going to gang the medicine cabinets together all along the vanity. Like this picture. Do you know what that lighting is?

http://st.houzz.com/simages/58912_0_4-2195-contemporary-bathroom.jpg
Like this, sorry

The electrician can take my regular wall lighted makeup mirror and just wire it directly into the wall? OMG that's so smart.

There is cabinet behind the mirror and I had 8 outlets installed so I leave my blow dryer, Sonicare, etcl plugged in. I had my mirror hard wired because the wires come out behind the metal hanging plate and a plug in the cord comes out of the bottom. Some people aren't cord freaks like me.....................

I'd love to see more pictures of your bathroom. What other type of lighting is in the bathroom? I use a makeup vanity in the bedroom for most of my hair and makeup, that's where the cords drive me crazy. I am going to steal your idea and put electrical outlets in a drawer. Thank you

Beckwith, could you tell me what type of lights would be able to go on top of 5 inch deep medicine cabinets 8 feet long? They would have to come out from the wall enough. I can't use pendants because the cabinets have to open. Thank you

Sconces on either side of the mirror over each sink will be the most flattering for grooming as it doesn't; cast any shades on the face.