678 Mirrors

Whether you’re in the market for a bathroom mirror, wall mirror or free-standing mirror, there are an array of options available. To help you navigate the minefield, here’s what you should consider before your next purchase.

What size mirror do I need?

The intended function of your desired mirror will determine its necessary scale. A full-length mirror is a no-brainer if you want something to help you nitpick daily outfits, while a small wall mirror can be used to fill a blank wall, but should either cover most of the space, or be grouped with other wall art. Large mirrors look best in narrow spaces, such as hallways or entryways, because they help to reflect light and can make the space look bigger than what it is. Small and decorative mirrors are better placed in living rooms if the purpose is purely aesthetic, while tall floor mirrors make sense in the bedroom and inside wardrobe doors. Bathroom mirrors may need to incorporate storage and task lighting, and are best scaled slightly larger than the basin.

What style of mirror will look best?

Mirrors come in more styles than most can chew, from heavily carved and ornate Baroque styles, to more streamlined but equally luxurious Art Deco styles, and as contemporary accents with sleek brass frames and leather straps. For a touch of glamour, look for mirrors with ornate details, gold, silver, or reflective frames. To make a statement, experiment with the ratio of the glass to the frame, and think outside the rectangle in terms of shape. For something more vintage, try scallop-edged mirrors and group smaller ones together. Also consider placement, as bathroom mirrors, for instance, will require frames that can withstand moisture.